Tropical Storm Arthur Threatens Fourth of July Holiday Fun – What’s in Store for the Carolinas

Tropical Storm Arthur is this year’s first named storm of the Atlantic. Tropical Storms, with winds ranging between 39-73mph, still pose a threat to the safety of those within its reach. This storm could be bad news for travelers during the upcoming July 4^th Holiday weekend due to the increase in road traffic and the potential safety hazards.

As the storm continues along the coast, the Weather Channel has forecast Arthur to reach the Carolina’s sometime between Thursday and Friday. Hopefully, Arthur will die down before it ever reaches the Carolina Coast, allowing for safe and fun times as we celebrate our Nation’s Independence. However, those people enjoying the beach on this holiday weekend should still take precaution; tropical storms, even weak ones, can cause high surfs, rip currents, strong winds, and flooding.

If you are planning to vacation this weekend, especially if you are traveling towards the Carolina Coast, make sure to stay up to date with the latest Hurricane News. Should conditions begin to worsen, make sure your gas tank is full, you have cash on hand, and you are aware of the evacuation route. Most importantly, look for posted signs or flags on the beach warning swimmers of the rip currents. Heed the directions of those safety personnel on the beach and keep your loved ones safe.

For those persons celebrating this holiday weekend from home – here are a few tips you should keep in mind now that hurricane season has reared its head:

– Keep your disaster supplies stocked

– Stay up to date with the weather, keep a radio that runs on batteries so you can get updates

– Don’t leave loose furniture in your yard

– Make sure you gas tank is full, and follow all evacuation orders

– Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible

So you’ve got your bread and milk, that’s enough right? No! Hurricanes can leave you without power for days, even weeks. Keep these disaster supplies stocked at all times during hurricane season:

– Flashlight

– Water (at least a 3 day supply, one gallon per person per day)

– Food (at least a 3 day supply of non-perishable, easy to prepare food)

– Battery Powered or hand-crank radio

– Medications

– Baby and Pet supplies

– For the full list, visit the American Red Cross.

Remember, your safety is important, and so is the safety of others. If you have not been asked to evacuate, but the weather is bad, stay off of the roads. If you must travel, avoid any flooded areas or washed out bridges, tree limbs and power lines.

Hurricane season is not a joke, and oftentimes we don’t know how bad it is going to be until it is too late. If you or someone you know is injured during this hurricane season, due to the negligence of another, or for any reason, call an experienced personal injury attorney for a free consultation regarding your claim.