Because Coastal Carolina University is located near the coast, University officials monitor all serious weather conditions in the Southeastern U.S. very closely. Student safety is the primary concern in adverse weather conditions.

The latest reports from the National Weather Service indicate that Tropical Storm Hanna may impact our area. Although it is too early to predict the actual path or intensity of the storm, it is important for students to be aware of changing conditions, to be registered for the CCUAlert system and to read their University e-mails.

If a hurricane is likely to affect the Myrtle Beach area, the National Weather Service will issue an official Hurricane Watch, which means that hurricane conditions are expected within 24 to 36 hours, or a Hurricane Warning, which means that hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours.

Prior to a Hurricane Warning being issued, the University's Hurricane Operations Committee meets and prepares to activate the Emergency Plan, if such activation becomes necessary. The Hurricane Operations Committee is experienced and prepared to respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If the University must cancel classes it will do so in a timely manner so that students can evacuate the area. In such a situation, students, faculty and staff will be notified by CCUAlert text messaging system, the University's main Web page (www.coastal.edu), University e-mail, residence life staff, and outside media. Students are reminded that it is not too late to sign up for CCUAlert at http://www.coastal.edu/emergency/ccualert.html. Interested parents may also receive text alerts by adding their information on the student sign up page.

Updates regarding severe weather will appear in this space.