Tropical storm warning is in effect for Horry County, major hurricane impacts expected Friday

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Horry County until further notice, according to the National Weather Service.

Heavy winds are expected in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and Surfside within the next 36 hours, meteorologists predict in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Residents are encouraged to protect their property from potential damage caused by winds.

The storm is about 550 miles south-southwest of Myrtle Beach and has winds of 155 miles per hour. It is moving north-northeast at 9 mph, according to NWS.

Still, Myrtle Beach isn’t expected to see the impact of Hurricane Ian until Friday, but unrelated strong winds may affect the area sooner.

Thursday’s weather could include gusty winds, which could cause minor coastal flooding with each high tide, meteorologists predict. This is expected to last through Thursday.

Heavier winds due to the hurricane could be in play Friday and Saturday morning, according to the weather service. Wind speeds could reach up to 40-45 mph Friday, especially along the coast.

The Myrtle Beach area is predicted to get up to 4-6 inches of rain. But rain amounts are dependent on the path of the storm.

Meteorologists said the entirety of northeast South Carolina may potentially see isolated tornadoes Friday and Saturday.

Hazardous marine conditions are expected for the area starting Thursday and ending this weekend, according to the forecast.

Rain is expected to come to a halt on Saturday.

This story was originally published September 28, 2022 at 9:05 AM.