000 WTUS82 KCHS 310618 HLSCHS 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