South Carolina Beaches on Alert as Tropical Storm Alberto Becomes 1st Named Storm of Season

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Tropical Storm Alberto has officially formed, becoming the first named storm of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season. As of 11 a.m., Alberto is located about 295 miles south-southeast of Brownsville, Texas, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The storm is moving west at 9 mph and is expected to reach the northeastern coast of Mexico early Thursday morning.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for parts of the Texas and northeastern Mexico coasts. The storm is forecast to bring heavy rains, coastal flooding, and gusty winds to these areas through Thursday.

The entire South Carolina coast faces a high risk of rip currents through Wednesday night. Wednesday should be considered a “no-swim day” due to the heightened rip current risk, which can be life-threatening.

If caught in a rip current, relax and float; do not swim against it. Instead, swim parallel to the shoreline. If you cannot escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.

Additionally, a group of thunderstorms east of the Bahamas has a 20% chance of developing into a tropical depression as it moves toward the southeastern U.S. This system could bring showers to South Carolina by the end of the week.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The National Hurricane Center’s forecast calls for a “hyperactive” season with 17 to 25 named storms, of which 8 to 13 could become hurricanes.

NHS officials are reminding all residents in Atlantic Coast states to be prepared for potential future storms.

In case of a power outage, make sure to have the following emergency items stocked in your home;

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