Irene brings strong winds, coastal flooding to SC

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) — Minor coastal flooding and strong winds have been reported in South Carolina as Hurricane Irene passes to the east.

The National Weather Service said sustained winds of 46 mph and gusts up to 62 mph were reported by 9:30 p.m. at Springmaid Pier in Myrtle Beach. Downtown Charleston reported a 49 mph wind gust and a 48 mph wind gust was reported Friday in Beaufort.

Forecasters say water surging from the storm combined with the high tide to cause minor flooding in downtown Charleston, dune erosion on Folly Beach and sand and water washing over the oceanfront road at Edisto Island, where 12-foot waves were crashing on the beach.

A tropical storm warning was still in effect for the South Carolina coast north of Edisto Island.