MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – The Grand Strand is preparing for some hot weather for Memorial Day weekend and the Atlantic Beach Bikefest.
Heavy showers fell on Ocean Boulevard on Friday afternoon during last year’s Memorial Day weekend. The controversial bike loop wasn’t even used that Sunday night because of rain. This year’s forecast doesn’t call for that kind of weather.
Instead, there’s expected to be a lot of sun and temperatures near or above 90 degrees.
“I think the holiday weekend brings increased volume everywhere and here, certainly, I think the temperatures will affect people,” said Dr. Matt Moore, an emergency physician at Grand Strand Medical Center.
In addition to injuries from accidents, first responders and hospital workers will especially look out for medical issues like dehydration and heat stroke.
Lt. Jonathan Evans with Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue says the firefighters and EMTs out this weekend are prepared for heat-related illnesses.
“We have measures on the ambulances to cool people down,” Lt. Evans said. “Obviously, get them to the hospitals if we need to do that, if they’re that far gone, having a heat stroke or something to that effect.”
Dr. Moore says hydration tips like drinking plenty of water may seem obvious, but can be forgotten when you’re having fun or on vacation.
“Heat exhaustion itself is generally a product of dehydration and lack of preparation,” he said. “Utilize the shade, utilize cover, not to be out and exposed in the sun for long periods of time, minimize alcohol consumption while you’re in the sun, because it adds to the dehydration.”
Lt. Evans also says Myrtle Beach fire received 121 medical calls during last year’s Bikefest weekend. He says that number has gone down significantly in recent years.
The same amount of firefighters and EMTs will be in the city as last year to help where they’re needed.