Grand Strand Forecast: Sunny Week and Mild Halloween with High Coastal Tides

Horry County residents can expect a clear, mild stretch of weather through Halloween week, featuring daytime highs in the 70s and dry conditions across most of the Grand Strand. A large high-pressure system positioned to the north will drive clear skies and northeast wind gusts near 20 mph through midweek. Inland communities like Conway, Aynor, and Loris are expected to see temperatures reach the upper 70s by Wednesday and Thursday.

While the sunny conditions offer ideal weather for fall festivities, local forecasters point to several factors coastal residents and trick-or-treaters should monitor. A full moon early in the week paired with persistent northeast winds will elevate tides along the coast, creating potential for minor "sunny day" tidal flooding in low-lying spots from October 26 through October 28 without a storm present. Ocean swimmers should also exercise caution due to elevated surf and dangerous rip currents, especially with seasonal lifeguard staffing ended.

The forecast for Halloween weekend remains largely favorable for outdoor events, though minor timing differences exist among weather models regarding potential rain. WMBF and Weather Underground project a dry Friday and Saturday evening with mild highs in the mid-to-upper 70s, placing rain chances later on Sunday. However, AccuWeather indicates possible rain late Friday night into Saturday morning. Outdoor event planners are advised to check updated local forecasts by Thursday as the next system approaches.

Residents should also prepare for a daylight shift as Daylight Saving Time ends overnight Saturday, October 31 into Sunday, November 1, when clocks fall back one hour. Sunset on Halloween will occur around 6:24 p.m., but beginning Sunday, evening darkness will fall around 5:20 p.m., affecting evening commutes and outdoor youth activities.

Additionally, local emergency officials remind residents to remain mindful of dry ground conditions following a severe dry spell earlier this year. While no countywide burn ban is active this week, State Law requires anyone planning an open outdoor burn to register in advance with the South Carolina Forestry Commission by calling 800-986-5404.