Coronavirus live updates May 18: Close-contact businesses reopen in the Myrtle Beach area
Hair salons, pools, tattoo services and other close-contact businesses are allowed to reopen today along the Grand Strand after being closed for weeks to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
The Myrtle Beach area is in for a rainy week ahead of Memorial Day weekend. Over the weekend, visitors flooded to the area, beaches were packed and businesses were busy. But the weekend ended with a crowd gathering for a block party and a shooting, both reportedly happened along Ocean Boulevard.
Though most businesses are reopening, there are still restrictions on some attractions. This guide will help you learn what is open and what remains closed along the Strand.
Here are the latest updates on the coronavirus in the Myrtle Beach area May 18.
Cases of the coronavirus have climbed to 298, with 19 deaths in Horry County, according to the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control.
In Georgetown County, there have been 52 cases and three deaths reported.
Across South Carolina, DHEC records show there are at least 8,816 COVID-19 cases and there have been 385 deaths.
Today’s takeaways:
- It’s probably likely your hair screaming for a cut or color, or maybe both. Salons are allowed to reopen today after being closed for nearly two months. Nail salons have also reopened today along the Strand.
- Public and commercial pools are also allowed to reopen today, though some are choosing to remain closed. Here’s what you need to know.
- In case you missed it: “It’s a shock”: Tourism season kicks off in the Myrtle Beach area despite COVID-19 outbreak.
Wash your hands & weather update
This is your daily reminder to wash your hands and practice social distancing. Health officials say washing your hands often for at least 20 with soap and water can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Guidelines for social distancing are still in place.
Forecasters are calling for chances of rain through Friday in the Myrtle Beach area. Here is this week’s forecast and when the rain will move out of the area.
This story was originally published May 18, 2020 at 12:08 PM.
