Moderate temperatures are settling in this week, but be careful in the water

It’s fall in Myrtle Beach — with conditions to prove it.

The National Weather Service says temperatures are settling into their seasonal averages, though swimming could be dangerous over the next several days thanks to the increased threat of rip currents.

The mercury touched nearly 80 degrees on Oct. 14 and temperatures were in the low 70s during the early morning for participants in the Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon and Coastal 5K.

Expect highs in the mid to low-60s for the rest of week, with the potential for spot showers.

The Grand Strand remains at moderate risk for rip currents into Monday morning.

Pollen levels will be higher than normal over the next few days

If the yellow stuff bothers you, plan accordingly. Pollen levels could be higher than average from Oct. 18 through Oct. 21.

The Mayo Clinic offers several tips on how people with pollen allergies can manage their symptoms.

• Stay indoors on dry, windy days. The best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air.
• Avoid lawn mowing, weed pulling and other gardening chores that stir up allergens.
• Remove clothes you’ve worn outside and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
• Don’t hang laundry outside — pollen can stick to sheets and towels.
• Wear a face mask if you do outside chores.
• Start taking allergy medications before your symptoms start.
  
  
• Close doors and windows at night if possible or any other time when pollen counts are high.
• Avoid outdoor activity in the early morning when pollen counts are highest.
• Use air conditioning in your house and car.
• If you have forced air heating or air conditioning in your house, use high-efficiency filters and follow regular maintenance schedules.
• Keep indoor air dry with a dehumidifier.
• Use a portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your bedroom.
• Clean floors often with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter.