Emergency Preparedness

Although the weather in the Seabrook Island area is usually comprised of calm seas and clear skies, the region is within the Atlantic hurricane belt. In the unlikely event of a tropical storm or hurricane, the information on this site will help prepare and protect you, your family and your property. Be prepared and it will be plain sailing, no matter what the weather.

The Town of Seabrook Island is on a floodplain. This means that, although very rare, flooding is a potential occurrence. Use the resources provided on this site to help prepare you in the unlikely event of a serious threat.

Click here for more information on Flood Zones & Flood Protection.

GENERAL PREPAREDNESS INFO

Hurricane season is June 1 to November 30, but any time is the right time to prepare for a possible disaster. Here is a checklist we suggest you follow:

• Develop a plan for evacuation.
• Discuss the possibility of a disaster with your family.
• Inventory personal valuables.
• Check with your insurance agent to make certain that you have the right coverage.
• Assemble a portable disaster kit, home disaster supplies, a car emergency kit and first aid kit.
• Pay attention to weather forecasts.
• Know water and electricity shut-off points and how to shut them off.
• Make preparations to moor, anchor or store your boat.
• Make preparations to board safeguard pets.
• Keep at least half a tank of fuel in car.
• Check car for road worthiness: oil level, tire pressures (including spare).
• Replenish medications, prescriptions.
• Cover furniture, valuables with plastic.
• Put small valuables up high on shelves.
• Load car with “disaster supply kit”, pillows, blankets, important papers, etc.
• Lock all doors and windows.
• LEAVE EARLY and arrive safely.
• Upon arrival let friends or family know where you are.

TERMS TO KNOW

• Tropical Disturbance: A moving area of thunderstorms in the Tropics that maintains its identity for 24 hours or more. A common phenomenon in the Atlantic.
• Tropical Depression: Rotary circulation at surface, highest constant wind speed of 38 miles per hour (33 knots).
• Tropical Storm: Distinct rotary circulation, constant wind speeds ranges from 39 to 73 miles per hour (34-63 knots).
• Small Craft Cautionary Statement: When a tropical cyclone threatens a coastal area, small craft operators are advised to remain in port or not to venture into the open sea.
• Gale Warnings: may be issued when winds of 39-54 miles per hour (34-47 knots) are expected.
• Storm Warnings: may be issued when winds of 55-73 miles per hour (48-63 knots) are expected. If a hurricane is expected to strike a coastal area, gale or storm warnings will not usually precede hurricane warnings.
• Hurricane Watch: is issued for a for a coastal area when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours
• Hurricane Warning: is issued when hurricane conditions are expected are expected in a specific coastal area in 24 hours or less. Hurricane conditions include winds of 74 miles per hour (64 knots) and/or dangerously high tides and waves. Actions for protection of life and property should begin immediately when the warning is issued.
• Flash Flood Watch: means a flash flood is possible in the area: stay alert.
• Flash Flood Warning: means a flash flood is imminent; take immediate action.