Haley says coastal residents should stay vigilant

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Gov. Nikki Haley is urging South Carolina’s coastal residents to be prepared for tropical storm conditions as Hurricane Irene passes by the state.

Haley said Friday that while the hurricane is not expected to directly impact South Carolina, coastal residents should take steps to stay safe as the threat of some tropical weather remains.

State officials say strong winds, heavy rain and some flooding is expected in Horry and Georgetown counties Friday.

Emergency management officials recommend that coastal residents bring in outdoor furniture, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down. They say coastal residents should also prepare for possible flash flooding, power outages, downed trees in roads and to find alternate travel routes.

The transportation department says all roads and bridges remain open to traffic.