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As of Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Hurricane Helene continues to intensify as it approaches the Florida Big Bend area. The National Weather Service (NWS) Wilmington office issued a series of updates and warnings for areas in Northeast South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina, with potential local impacts expected from Thursday into Friday.

Situation Overview

•       Hurricane Helene is a large and powerful storm system, expected to make landfall near the Florida Big Bend on Thursday evening.
•       Due to its large physical size, the effects of the storm will be felt far away from the center, especially on the eastern side.
•       Local impacts in South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina are projected to include:
•       Gusty winds, particularly in coastal regions.
•       Areas of flooding, especially in low-lying or flood-prone zones.
•       Isolated tornadoes, with the highest threat from Thursday night through Friday.
•       Dangerous surf conditions, with large breakers and strong rip currents affecting coastal waters.

Watches and Warnings

• A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for coastal Georgetown and Horry Counties in South Carolina, as well as adjacent marine zones extending up to 20 nautical miles from the shore.
• The watch area extends from South Santee River to Little River Inlet, with potential impacts from Thursday evening.

Peak Forecast Wind Gusts

The NWS predicts that wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are likely, primarily in coastal regions of Northeast South Carolina, with winds of 25-30 mph further inland. There is a possibility of higher gusts near thunderstorms, which could lead to:

• Downed trees and power lines.
• Power outages across the affected regions.

Timing of Tropical Storm Winds

The most likely arrival time for tropical-storm-force winds is Thursday evening, with impacts persisting into Friday. Areas along the coastal regions of Northeast South Carolina are expected to experience the strongest winds.

Storm Surge Forecast

Minor coastal flooding is expected along the coasts of Northeast South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina, particularly with each high tide. This will be exacerbated by peak storm surges, particularly during Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. The Cape Fear River and Wilmington areas are also expected to see flooding with each high tide through the end of the week.

Tornado Threats

The primary tornado threat is anticipated to occur from Thursday night into Friday, as the outer bands of the storm sweep through the region. The NWS advises residents to be alert to changing weather conditions, as severe thunderstorms could spawn isolated tornadoes.

Key Takeaways

•       Hurricane Helene is strengthening rapidly and is expected to make landfall near Florida’s Big Bend. The storm will expand significantly, and areas well outside the storm’s center will feel the effects.
•       Rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are expected, with some areas potentially receiving higher amounts. This rainfall could lead to isolated flooding, especially in areas already saturated from previous storms.
•       Residents in coastal and low-lying areas should prepare for the possibility of minor coastal flooding during high tides and ensure their safety plans are in place.

Next Briefing

The National Weather Service will provide its next update at 6:00 PM EDT on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official sources, including local NWS offices and social media channels.

Stay safe and be prepared for changing weather conditions as Hurricane Helene approaches.