We’re in a heatwave! Here’s how hot it will be in the Myrtle Beach area by Fourth of July

The weekend before the Fourth of July will be hot.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington forecasts that temperatures will begin to rise into the mid-80s to low 90s Friday and stay consistently above 90 degrees throughout Saturday and Sunday. The heat index is also expected to rise above 100 degrees during this period.

NWS meteorologist Carl Morgan said this heatwave could last until Tuesday, July 4, with temperatures expected to fall around July. 6.

Cooler than normal May and June

The heatwave is Myrtle Beach’s first of the season, Morgan said. May and June have been cooler than usual and he added the temperature change could be more noticeable as a result.

Morgan said that the high temperatures will be caused by warm air moving east from the Gulf states, which coupled with weather activity off the coast, is creating a heat dome around the Grand Strand.

How to stay safe during the heatwave

The National Weather Service has several recommendations to remain safe for residents and people visiting the Myrtle Beach area for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. Morgan said people should avoid extended periods of outside exposure, particularly between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

He added that if people do go out or hit the beach, they should take breaks in the shade and drink plenty of fluids to remain hydrated.

Pet owners should also avoid leaving their dogs in locked cars for long periods of time and that pets should also have access to water and shade.

With high temperatures, residents should also look to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Senior citizens, individuals with high blood pressure, and people working outside are at risk of experiencing heat exhaustion, according to the CDC.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, and elevated body temperature, according to the CDC. The agency also recommends people experiencing heat exhaustion should have someone stay with them, seek shelter in a cool area, drink water and remove unnecessary clothing.

The CDC warns that heat stroke, when a person’s body temperature rises to 106 degrees within 10 to 15 minutes, could cause permanent disability or death if left untreated.

Heat stroke symptoms include confusion, slurred speech, hot dry skin or heavy sweating, loss of consciousness, or seizure. Morgan said those suffering from heatstroke symptoms should seek medical attention immediately, and the CDC recommends putting the person in the shade and soaking their clothing in cold water.

How to save money on your electric bill

Electrical bills can also go through the roof during a heatwave. Air conditioning makes up 50% of most power bills, said Santee Cooper Public Relations Specialist Tracy Vreeland.

According to Vreeland, there are several ways Myrtle Beach area residents can save money on their bills this week.

Consumers should set their thermostats to 78 degrees and keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed, as well as blinds and doors shut, to conserve electricity. Residents should also have battery-powered fans on hand and avoid cooking with their ovens when possible.

Vreeland also added people should drink plenty of water and that Santee Cooper does not expect any power outages during the weekend.