Heavy rains keep bikers inside, sends some home

Must read

David Hucks
David Huckshttps://myrtlebeachsc.com
David Hucks is a 12th generation descendant of the area we now call Myrtle Beach, S.C. David attended Coastal Carolina University and like most of his family, has never left the area. David is the lead journalist at MyrtleBeachSC.com

With the arrival of Myrtle Beach Black Bike Week, riders from all corners of the country were expected for an epic adventure. But heavy rains have been putting a damper on their plans – quite literally. As bikers scramble to find shelter and stay safe, we take a closer look at what’s likely ahead for the Memorial Day weekend.

While 350,000 were predicted to show, last minute cancellations and departures have the group size estimated at around 100,000.

Beach Closed

Double Red Flags

The City of Myrtle Beach closed the beach with double red flags, meaning the ocean is unsafe for swimming.

Beachgoers may not enter the ocean in Myrtle Beach through Memorial Day weekend due to potential impacts from the weather, the city announced Friday.

The forecast calls for inches of rain, with wind gusts of 50 miles per hour,” the city said in a release.

What causing the heavy rains?

The heavy rains that have been sending bikers away from Myrtle Beach Black Bike Week are caused by a number of factors. One primary cause is the collision of warm and cold air masses. When these two air masses meet, they create instability in the atmosphere, leading to cloud formation and precipitation. Myrtle Beach’s weather patterns usually run from West to East, however this rain event is coming off the ocean running in the opposite direction.

The heavy rains have kept bikers indoors. Many guests have checked out early and are heading back home.

How to stay safe while riding in the rain

Those those who are staying, riding a motorcycle in the rain can be daunting and challenging, but with some precautions, you can stay safe on the road. Firstly, make sure your bike is equipped for wet weather by checking that your tires have enough tread depth to provide good traction on slippery roads.

Secondly, slow down and increase your following distance from other vehicles as it takes longer to come to a stop on wet pavement. Be cautious when taking turns or changing lanes as these actions require more traction than riding straight ahead.

Thirdly, wear appropriate gear such as waterproof boots and gloves, and ensure that your helmet visor is clear of any water droplets which could obstruct your vision.

Fourthly, avoid sudden braking or acceleration which can lead to skidding or loss of control on wet surfaces. Instead use smooth and gradual movements when operating the throttle and brakes.

Be aware of hydroplaning – this happens when there’s too much water between the tires and the road causing them to lose contact with each other- so always try to ride in the tire tracks left by cars in front of you. Stay safe out there!

What to do if you get caught in a storm

Getting caught in a storm while riding your motorcycle can be a scary experience, but there are steps you can take to stay safe. First and foremost, find a safe place to pull over. Look for shelter under an overpass or in a parking garage if possible.

If you cannot find shelter, make sure that you are wearing proper rain gear to keep yourself dry. This includes waterproof boots, gloves and jacket with reflective strips so other drivers can see you easily.

Reduce your speed when riding on wet roads because it takes longer to stop on slippery surfaces. Also, avoid sudden movements like hard braking or accelerating as this may cause skidding.

It is also essential to maintain visibility by keeping the visor of your helmet clean and switching on your headlights even during the day time.

Always check the weather forecast before heading out for a ride – preparation is key! If it looks like rain might be coming soon or there is already heavy rainfall reported in the area where you are planning to travel then postpone your trip until conditions improve.

Heavy rains can be a major deterrent for bikers attending Myrtle Beach Black Bike Week. It’s important to stay safe and take precautions when riding in the rain, such as wearing appropriate gear and slowing down. However, if the weather is just too extreme, it may be best to postpone your ride until conditions improve.

Remember that safety should always come first and never risk getting caught in a dangerous storm. By being prepared and informed about what to do during heavy rain situations, you can still enjoy an amazing experience at Myrtle Beach Black Bike Week despite any unforeseen weather challenges that may arise. Stay dry and have fun!

More articles

Latest article

- Advertisement -