Horry County, South Carolina: drinking water report. Horry County – Myrtle Beach and Conway – serves about 370,000 residents, with population swelling
Horry County – Myrtle Beach and Conway – serves about 370,000 residents, with population swelling during tourist season. Grand Strand Water and Sewer Authority draws from the Waccamaw River and Bull Creek, while smaller systems serve inland communities. The county's tourism economy means water demand can double during peak summer months.
The Waccamaw River is a blackwater river – naturally dark with dissolved tannins – that requires specialized treatment to produce clean drinking water. UCMR5 data shows low-level PFAS detections in county systems. Myrtle Beach Air Force Base closed in 1993, and the site has been redeveloped, but legacy PFAS contamination from AFFF use has been documented.
According to the South Carolina DHEC's 2024 monitoring data, PFAS levels in county systems were below proposed federal MCLs. Hurricane-related flooding – particularly from Hurricane Florence in 2018 – has caused significant water quality disruptions in the past.
Horry County's water quality is adequate under normal conditions. Hurricane and flooding vulnerability is the primary disruption risk.
Check your water for data specific to your area. A carbon or reverse osmosis filter provides additional household protection. Our water filter guide covers options. Pull your detailed report, and visit our South Carolina page for statewide data.