How should Myrtle Beach vacationers prepare for Tropical Storm Debby? What to know

With Tropical Storm Debby expected to hit the Myrtle Beach area on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, many tourists will want to know how to stay safe.

The early season storm also coincides with vacation season along the Grand Strand, and some resorts are looking to assist their residents. Barb Krumm, director of marketing and public relations at the Ocean Lakes Family Campground in Myrtle Beach, said the resort advises its guests about the dangers of rip currents in the ocean.

Krumm added that the resort will also send out new information to guests as the storm progresses and tells people staying at Ocean Lakes to follow local news reports for updates on the storm. Krumm also said the resort hasn’t canceled any guest reservations this week.

“We want our residents to stay safe,” she said.

Indeed, the main advice for vacationers is to regularly check with their transportation and lodging throughout this week.

Steven Pfaff is the meteorologist in charge at the National Weather Service’s Wilmington Office. He recommends that vacationers follow the official guidelines for the Myrtle Beach area. Pfaff also advises against driving through flooded roads when traveling to the Grand Strand or home, as there is a greater risk of vehicular-related drowning during storms.

Checking in with your lodging is also recommended for tourists. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has a hurricane information center, which provides resources for tourists in the area. The website recommends that tourists check with their flights and hotels for the status of their rooms and home journeys if they’re flying.

Indeed, tourists should also prepare for their planned excursions to be canceled as several venues and businesses are closing due to the storm. Indeed, the South Carolina State Parks announced on Facebook that Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park will close on Aug. 6, 2024, due to the storm.

This story was originally published August 5, 2024 at 5:13 PM.

Ben Morse

The Sun News

Ben Morse is the Retail and Leisure Reporter for The Sun News. Morse covers local business and Coastal Carolina University football and was awarded third place in the 2023 South Carolina Press Association News Contest for sports beat reporting and second place for sports video in the all-daily division. Morse previously worked for The Island Packet, covering local government. Morse graduated from American University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s Degree in journalism and economics and is originally from Prospect, Kentucky.