Heat Advisory Issued for Grand Strand as Extreme Heat and Humidity Continue

A Heat Advisory will be in effect on Wednesday, August 19, across Horry and Georgetown counties as high temperatures and extreme humidity return to the Grand Strand. Heat index values are projected to reach or exceed 110 degrees across coastal and inland areas, with parts of the Pee Dee expected to reach heat indices between 105 and 110 degrees. The conditions coincide with the first day of school for students and teachers in Horry County.

Forecasters advise residents, school families, and outdoor workers to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. Strenuous outdoor activities should be limited between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m., which is expected to be the hottest stretch of the day. Children, seniors, and pets should be given frequent breaks in air conditioning along with plenty of water. Anyone working outside is urged to take regular rest breaks in shaded or cooled areas.

The pattern of excessive heat and humidity will continue through Thursday and Friday, with afternoon temperatures staying well into the 90s and heat index values holding between 105 and 110 degrees. While much of the area will remain mostly dry through mid-week, storm chances increase significantly by Friday afternoon. High atmospheric energy could trigger stronger storms capable of producing frequent lightning, gusty winds, and locally heavy downpours.

Looking ahead to the weekend, a weak weather front will settle over the region, helping to ease the extreme temperatures slightly while maintaining unsettled conditions. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to increase Saturday afternoon and continue into the evening. Storm coverage is anticipated to drop somewhat by Sunday afternoon, though scattered rain remains possible. Residents and visitors planning outdoor activities throughout the Grand Strand are encouraged to monitor local weather updates.