ISLE OF PALMS, South Carolina – Isle of Palms authorities said they will continue to check the weather every few hours for the next few days, especially because rip currents and high surf advisories are in effect due to Tropical Storm Imelda churning in the Atlantic.
Despite remaining offshore, Imelda is forecast to deliver dangerous rip currents and waves of five to seven feet to Lowcountry beaches.
According to the National Weather Service, the rip current risk will end Tuesday night, but the high surf advisory will remain in effect until Saturday morning.
The waves are drawing surfers. Tay Miller and Austin Minton told News 2 that they traveled down from Columbia to ride the waves caused by Hurricane Erin.
“We came down for that hurricane; we haven’t had that many this season, but it’s good to get away from school, too,” Minton told me.
“Definitely a nice break to get down here when we can,” said to Miller.
Officials stated that conditions might still be perilous. If you get caught in a rip current, don’t panic. Swim parallel to the shore until you are clear of the current, then return to land. First responders advise anyone planning to take advantage of the surf to think twice before going out.
“If you’re planning to surf or windsurf and appreciate water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. “Know your limitations, look at the ocean conditions, and assess them,” said Craig Oliverius, Isle of Palms’ fire chief. “Then, if you’re going to be surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, or doing anything else on the water, you’ll need a partner. You want to be in a group so that if you get into problems or have a problem with your equipment, you have someone nearby who can help you right away.”
Coastal erosion may potentially occur, since it has been a long-standing problem on nearby beaches. Hurricane Erin caused limited damage, which is what officials hope for with Imelda.
“There’s still a lot of storm season remaining. It won’t be over until November, but we’re certain we’ll be able to weather any challenges that arise until there is a huge direct strike or storm,” said Rusty Streetman, Isle of Palms municipal council member. “We hope to be able to help get the beach stabilized, and let Mother Nature take its course, and let’s try to protect our beach.”
