Will bridges in the Myrtle Beach area stay open during Tropical Storm Debby? What to know

Many Myrtle Beach residents and vacationers want to map their itinerary around the area in case Tropical Storm Debby makes traveling difficult.

The storm is forecast to pour between 10-15 inches of rain onto the Grand Strand, and with flash flooding and wind a possibility, some locals and tourists alike want to know how the weather will affect their travel.

Specifically, will the many bridges, including movable bridges like the Barefoot Resort Swing Bridge, be closed due to inclement weather?

The Sun News reported in August 2023 that the South Carolina Department of Transportation determines if bridges are closed, a rare step usually. Indeed, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, Horry County has 479 bridges. The agency rates bridge quality in three categories, with ‘Good’ being the highest grade and ‘Poor’ being the lowest. Of the 479 in Horry County, 18 are in poor condition.

SCDOT Director of Public Engagement & Senior Advisor to Secretary Kelly Moore said the agency works with local officials to determine bridge closures if necessary.

She added that all movable bridges in the Lowcountry and Grand Strand will close to marine traffic if sustained winds exceed 25 miles per hour.

“We encourage community members to visit our website and social media feeds for the latest updates on any storm related closures,” Moore said.

This story was originally published August 7, 2024 at 6:00 AM.

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.