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Local Statement for Idalia (Charleston, SC)


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753 
WTUS82 KCHS 310618
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GAZ087-088-099>101-114>119-137>141-SCZ040-042>045-047>052-311015-

Tropical Storm Idalia Local Statement Intermediate Advisory Number 18A
National Weather Service Charleston SC  AL102023
218 AM EDT Thu Aug 31 2023

This product covers southeast South Carolina and southeast Georgia

*Conditions Improving As Tropical Storm Idalia Moves Away From Area**

NEW INFORMATION
---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:
    - All watches and warnings have been canceled

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:
    - None

* STORM INFORMATION:
    - About 70 miles northeast of Charleston SC or about 150 miles 
      northeast of Savannah GA
    - 33.5N 79.1W
    - Storm Intensity 60 mph
    - Movement Northeast or 55 degrees at 21 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW
------------------

Conditions continue to improve across southeast Georgia and the South 
Carolina Lowcountry as Tropical Storm Idalia moves away from the area. 

Breezy conditions will continue through early morning, especially 
along the immediate coast where gusts up to 30 to 35 mph are possible.
Most of the rain has ended, though a few fast moving showers could
move into the area through early morning. 

Some areas continue dealing with residual standing water and flooding.
Remember to never drive through a flooded roadway - Turn Around, Don't
Drown! 

Over the next few days, many local rivers and streams will experience 
significant rises as water from heavy rain moves downstream. Remain 
informed of the latest river forecasts and heed any flood warnings.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS
-----------------

* SURGE:
Little to no additional surge impacts expected.
    - Community officials are now assessing the extent of actual 
      surge impacts accordingly.
    - Emergency work crews are restoring essential community 
      infrastructure as necessary.
    - If you have an emergency dial 9 1 1.

Elsewhere across southeast South Carolina and southeast Georgia, 
little to no impact is anticipated.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS
----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS:

RECOVERY PHASE - Do not enter evacuated areas until officials have 
given the all clear to return.

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION:
If your home or shelter was damaged, be alert to the smell of gas 
leaks and be cautious around electrical wiring, broken glass, jagged 
metal and wood, and protruding nails and screws.

Do not attempt to return to evacuated areas until local authorities 
give the all clear. Allow time for officials to inspect bridges and 
overpasses and to mark washed-out roads.

Do not drive on roads that have been marked closed or are flooded.

Do not go sightseeing within impacted communities. Sightseers 
interfere with the emergency work of first responders.

When inspecting damage, use flashlights rather than candles or flamed 
lanterns. Be aware of sparks that can ignite natural gas or other 
leaking flammables.

When clearing out fallen trees, be careful with chainsaws and axes. 
Always wear protective gear and keep others at a safe distance. 
Leaning trees and those which have fallen on roofs or power lines can 
be especially dangerous. If you are not in good health or unsure 
about what you are doing, have someone with tree cutting experience 
do the job. Never cut trees without a partner.

If using a generator, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by following 
instructions provided by the manufacturer. Operate your generator in 
a well-ventilated space outside of your living area and away from 
open doors and windows.

Be alert for any lingering wind gusts which could take down weakened 
trees and/or power lines, collapse damaged structures, or cause 
flying debris.

Be alert for potential flooding from rising rivers and streams which 
may have yet to crest. Remain informed of the latest river forecasts 
and heed any flood watches and warnings.

Be alert for flooded roads which could be compromised or littered 
with debris. Avoid travel until water levels subside and roads have 
been cleared. Do not drive through places where flood waters cover 
the road. Turn around, don't drown!

* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION:
- For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov
- For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org
- For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org

NEXT UPDATE
-----------

As it pertains to this event...this will be the last local statement 
issued by the National Weather Service in Charleston SC regarding the 
effects of tropical cyclone hazards upon the area.

$$

KR