Please stay informed about developments with Imelda now through Tuesday p.m. Imelda could develop into a category 1 hurricane.

Imelda has a cone of certainty that does include Myrtle Beach at this time.

Although the prediction is unclear, the potential development of Imelda may present a risk to the Southeast next week.

Mayor Brenda Bethune has signed a Declaration of Civil Emergency for the City of Myrtle Beach in advance of the potential impacts from soon-to-be Imelda (94-L).

IMELDA STORM PROJECT PATH

The declaration is not meant to alarm residents, but to ensure the city can act quickly to protect the community if the storm threatens or causes damage to the area. The measure allows Myrtle Beach to activate emergency powers that can help residents and businesses sooner, including the ability to set curfews, aid in evacuation, waive fees, speed up procurement needs and provide disaster recovery assistance.

“As a city, we want to be prepared to respond quickly if necessary,” Bethune said. “This declaration gives us the tools we need to protect our residents and businesses.”

Preparing for Imelda: Actions Taken by Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach officials are closely monitoring the storm and working with other municipalities to coordinate storm preparations. More information on plans and preparations may become available as the day progresses.

Current efforts in Myrtle Beach include removing wind screens from athletic courts, checking storm drains, securing objects on city property and fueling city vehicle fleets. Trash cans will remain on the beach through the weekend, with removal planned for Monday morning. The city also works year-round to clean storm drains. Those who see a storm drain that appears full inside city limits are asked to report it to the Myrtle Beach Public Works Department at 843-918-2000.

Life-threatening swimming conditions are expected in the ocean regardless of the storm’s final track. Would-be swimmers are urged to follow the lifeguards’ beach flag system and adhere to lifeguards’ orders at all times.

For more information on civil emergency declarations, see Chapter 8 of the Myrtle Beach code of ordinances. The city encourages everyone to prepare for the storm now. You can find hurricane preparedness resources available on the Emergency Management Division page of the city’s website here