Updated at 4:27 p.m. Jan. 8.
Georgetown County Emergency Management is encouraging residents to prepare for severe weather on Tuesday, Jan. 9. On Monday, the Storm Prediction Center elevated the threat of severe weather for our area to an "Enhanced Risk" (3 out of 5). A High Wind Warning has been issued from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Tuesday. Sustained winds of 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 60 mph are expected. Damaging winds may blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected and travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
Forecasted impacts, according to the National Weather Service, are as follows:
- Strong winds expected Tuesday - Tuesday evening. Severe storms and tornadoes could produce stronger winds.
- Minor coastal flooding is possible during the high tide cycles.
- Rainfall of 1-2 inches is forecast with locally higher amounts possible.
- Possibility of isolated but strong tornadoes.
- Significant marine impacts will occur with 10-16 foot seas within 20 miles offshore.
Windy conditions will be present throughout the day Tuesday with the greatest risk of severe weather being likely Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday evening.
Georgetown County Emergency Management will closely monitor conditions and update residents. Residents should also monitor local news for updates and follow Georgetown County Emergency Management at Facebook.com.