Lowcountry beaches likely to experience the impacts of Hurricane Erin

Hurricane Erin may not be making landfall in South Carolina, but its effects are already being felt along the coast. Officials across Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island are warning beachgoers of high surf and dangerous rip currents as the powerful storm churns offshore.

High Surf Advisory and Rip Current Warning Issued

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory and a rip current statement for Lowcountry beaches. Waves as high as 6 to 8 feet are expected, posing a serious risk for swimmers and surfers.

“Our biggest concern here along our coast is the potential for dangerous rip currents and high surf,” explained WCBD Chief Meteorologist Rob Fowler.

Though the storm won’t hit the Lowcountry directly, the ocean conditions it creates can be life-threatening for those unaware of the risks.

Beach Safety Is a Team Effort

Law enforcement and emergency response teams are on high alert. Isle of Palms Police Officer Matt Storen said it’s all about teamwork:
“It’s a team effort. Everybody is working together as a team to make sure we keep everybody on the beaches safe.”

Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms are also making use of the colored-flag system to warn beachgoers of water dangers. A red flag, for example, signals strong rip currents and dangerous swimming conditions.

What to Do If You Get Caught in a Rip Current

Officials urge everyone to stay out of the water, but if you do find yourself caught in a rip current, don’t panic. Instead, follow these steps:

Stay calm and let the current carry you away from shore

Swim parallel to the beach, not directly against the current

Once you’re out of the current, swim back to shore at an angle

If you can’t make it back, wave to lifeguards or people on shore for help

“You can’t try to fight it by swimming through it,” said meteorologist Rob Fowler. “Eventually, you’ll be beyond the rip current and able to swim back.”

Special Water Rescue Teams on Standby

To prepare for emergencies, the Isle of Palms Fire Department is ready with a specialized aquatic rescue team trained in both surf and swiftwater rescues.

“We have a team of two to three people who specialize in water rescue,” said Chief Craig Oliverius. “We’re watching conditions closely and will increase staff if needed.”

This proactive approach is helping communities stay prepared, even as conditions continue to evolve.

Residents Grateful for Constant Communication

Local residents say they appreciate the flow of information from officials. Phil Yuchmow of Sullivan’s Island believes public awareness is key:
“What they need to do is have knowledge in case they do find themselves in one, on how to get out safely. I think that’s the most important thing.”

As Hurricane Erin continues moving along the East Coast, local agencies urge residents and tourists to stay updated, avoid the water, and respect safety warnings on beaches.

Summary of Hurricane Erin Coastal Impacts

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