Hurricane season in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina runs from June through November each year. Peak months for hurricane activity are August and September. If you’re planning a Myrtle Beach golf vacation during these times of year, you need to prepare before you arrive at your golf destination. This article provides tips and advice on how to weather any storm the tropics can throw at you while enjoying your golf vacation.
NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, predicts that 2005 will be another above-average Atlantic hurricane season. The organization forecasts 12 to 15 tropical storms, 7 to 9 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes. Vacationing golfers should not take these predictions lightly. We have already seen one of the most active Joules in hurricane tracking history.
Golfers shouldn’t let these predictions deter them from taking a golf trip to the Myrtle Beach area during the summer and fall seasons. Summer golf offerings along the Grand Strand are warmer than our southern summers. Additionally, fall in Myrtle Beach offers golfers lower lodging rates to keep up with the drop in temperatures and humidity.
If you’re unlucky enough to be right in the middle of a golf vacation when a hurricane hits the coast of the Carolinas, don’t worry. Unlike an unexpected afternoon thunderstorm, hurricanes don’t sneak up on the South Carolina coast. This gives vacationing golfers plenty of time to leave before the situation becomes dangerous.
The best advice we can offer if you plan to visit the Grand Strand golf area during hurricane season is to keep an eye on the extended Myrtle Beach weather forecast. If a hurricane approaches during your trip, don’t panic. As soon as it seems like you may need to leave your golf vacation, start taking these steps.
- Check the local weather station and follow their advice.
- Check previous flights and get to the airport earlier.
- Fill your car with a full tank of gas at the first sign of a hurricane.
- Draw evacuation routes before leaving.
- Pack water and food in case of traffic jams while driving.
- Don’t wait until the last minute to evacuate.
Most golf packages provide refunds or rain checks in the event of cancellations and evacuations due to hurricanes. Be sure to ask about this before you book your Myrtle Beach golf vacation. Even if you’re not planning a golf trip to Myrtle Beach during hurricane season, ask your golf package provider about refunds and cancellations caused by bad weather.
Whatever you do, don’t take the threat of hurricanes lightly. Pay attention to local weather forecasts. Listen to local officials. Follow the steps above and allow yourself enough time to safely evacuate your golf vacation destination.
Copyright 2005 Evans Putman – All Rights Reserved. Reprints permitted see below.
