Hurricane season begins June 1; Get ready now

Given the approaching busy hurricane season, it is crucial for South Carolina residents to take proactive steps in preparing their homes and families. This is the time to gather supplies, thoroughly review your emergency plans and confirm your evacuation zone.”

Kim Stenson, S.C. Emergency Management Director

ATLANTA — With the recent announcement of new coastal hurricane evacuation zones in South Carolina, it’s more important than ever for residents to stay informed as hurricane season begins.
FEMA and South Carolina Emergency Management Division urge all South Carolina residents to prepare themselves, their families and their property now, whether or not they live in a coastal area.
“Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem,” said Robert Samaan, FEMA Region 4 Administrator, cautioning against complacency from non-coastal communities. “Heavy rain, wind, floodwaters, and even tornadoes happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. That’s why it’s so important for everyone to know what threats they face and how best to prepare.”
Forecasts predict a very active season, with global weather patterns and historically high ocean temperatures creating enhanced conditions for tropical development.
“Given the approaching busy hurricane season, it is crucial for South Carolina residents to take proactive steps in preparing their homes and families,” said Kim Stenson, South Carolina Emergency Management Director. “This is the time to gather supplies, thoroughly review your emergency plans, and confirm your evacuation zone.”
There are other simple steps South Carolinians can take now to get prepared:
• Find your hurricane evacuation zone at https://hurricane.sc/ and assess your risk;
• Visit Hurricane.SC for step-by-step emergency planning in your state;
• Evacuate if told to do so. Text SHELTER to 43362 to find nearby emergency shelters in case of evacuation; and
• Download the FEMA App at https://www.ready.gov/fema-app to receive real-time weather emergency alerts for up to five different locations.
Bottom line: Don’t put off your family’s safety — get prepared for hurricane season now. Find more information at Ready.Gov/Hurricanes in English or Ready.Gov/ES/Huracanes in Spanish.