COASTAL SOUTH CAROLINA Sept. 16, 2024— Tropical Storm 8 is set to make landfall today along coastal South Carolina with anticipated impacts in Charleston, Berkeley, and Georgetown Counties and into North Carolina. Portions of the coast have already experienced tropical storm-force winds and rain associated with this storm.

More impacts are expected with strong winds, heavy rain, 3 to 6 inches in the Pee Dee, locally up to 8 inches, storm surge, and flash flooding all are expected. The Weather Prediction Center has upgraded to a moderate risk of flash flooding for parts of Horry County, and a slight risk of flash flooding remains possible for the remainder of the Pee Dee region.

The Red Cross is preparing to respond as needed and urges everyone near these areas to get ready now.

                                                                            TROPICAL STORM SAFETY TIPS
• Bring outdoor items inside, such as lawn furniture and trash cans, which could be picked up by high winds and hurt someone. Secure objects that can’t be brought inside, such as gas grills and propane tanks.
• Before a storm threatens your community, make a plan to evacuate and one to shelter safely at home. Don’t forget to include pets in your plans.
• To prepare for heavy rain, clean out drains, gutters, and downspouts.

                                                                              FLOOD SAFETY
• During a flood, be prepared to evacuate immediately if local officials advise. Don’t return home until officials say it's safe.
• Don’t walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don’t drown!
• If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising around you, quickly get out of the car, move to higher ground, and stay there.

Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather alerts, open shelters, and expert advice on emergency situations. The Emergency App includes an “I’m Safe” feature that helps people check on loved ones. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores, or go to redcross.org/apps. 
 
About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.