Horry County Emergency Management Department moves to OPCON 2 (Level 2 Operating Condition) on Friday, January 30, 2026, as of 12 p.m., meaning the county is operating in a heightened state of awareness with emergency plans beginning to be implemented. County officials have begun discussions with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, local municipalities, and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
The Horry County Emergency Operations Center will activate in a partial, virtual manner to coordinate any needs as impacts occur.
Weather forecasts from the National Weather Service in Wilmington, N.C. show an impactful winter weather event for Horry County with accumulating snow, gusty winds, and very cold temperatures.
All Horry County Memorial Library branches, Horry County Parks & Recreation facilities, the Horry County Museum and L.W. Paul Living History Farm will be closed Saturday, January 31, 2026 and Sunday, February 1, 2026.
The Horry County Solid Waste Authority will close the landfill and all recycling and convenience centers by noon on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The landfill and centers will remain closed on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
Travelers going through Myrtle Beach International Airport should check their flight status with their airline prior to heading to the airport this weekend.
Horry County Government operations could be impacted early next week. Notice of any operational changes will be announced in a timely manner for planning purposes.
In anticipation of possible impacts on the region, Horry County Emergency Management reminds all community members to take steps to prepare their households and neighborhoods:
· Finalize all preparations and errands today.
· Check on friends, family, and neighbors.
· Ensure electronic devices are charged in advance of the arrival of winter weather.
· Have nonperishable food and water on hand.
· Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
· Follow all safety instructions for proper use of generators and alternative heating sources, should you need them.
· Stay off roads once winter precipitation starts falling.
· Continue to monitor forecasts.
Additional information can be found on Horry County’s website at www.horrycountysc.gov
Horry County Emergency Management Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/horrycountyemergencymanagementdepartment