Updated at 5:13 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.
Georgetown County offices and facilities will be closed on Tuesday. The County Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday evening will take place virtually. Council members will meet via Zoom. As a result, only written public comments will be accepted. Comments may be emailed to tfloyd@gtcounty.org. The meeting is scheduled to be livestreamed as usual at youtube.com/gtcountysc (at least as long as power and internet are all up).
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.