Hurricane season along the South Carolina coast runs June 1 through November 30, typically peaking in September. Storms can bring torrential rain, dangerous flooding, and destructive winds — and for people living inland of the immediate coast, flooding is usually the bigger threat, not wind.

This is the same walkthrough we give every client relocating to the islands. Bookmark this page so you can find it again when you need it.

Before the Hurricane

Check into flood insurance. Ask your insurance agent about the National Flood Insurance Program. There’s normally a 30-day waiting period before a new policy takes effect, and standard homeowner policies don’t cover hurricane flooding.

Build a family communication plan. Agree on how you’ll reconnect if separated. Ask an out-of-state friend or relative to be your family contact, and make sure everyone has their name, address, phone number, and email.

Assemble an emergency kit. Store it somewhere cool and dark — a closet or a corner of the garage works well.

Prepare your home. Double entry doors secured top and bottom, garage door properly secured, windows protected with storm shutters.

During a Hurricane Watch

Review your plan and kit. Check your family disaster plan and confirm your emergency supplies include enough food and water.

Review evacuation routes. Learn safe routes inland and settle on your route ahead of time.

Fill your gas tank. Do this early — lines get long fast once a storm is confirmed.

Plan for pets. Identify pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation route in case you need them.

Refill prescriptions.

Anchor or stow small boats.

Bring in outdoor items. Lawn furniture, toys, and garden tools — anything that can’t come inside should be anchored down.

Remove outside antennas and board windows.

Turn the fridge and freezer to their coldest settings. Open only when necessary, and close quickly.

Store drinking water. Jugs, bottles, and clean bathtubs all work.

Trim dead or weak tree branches.

Stay tuned to local media or a battery-powered weather radio for updates.

During a Hurricane Warning

Protect your valuables. Jewelry, silverware, photos, and scrapbooks belong in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home.

Park your car in a sheltered area or on high ground.

Listen for official instructions on a battery-operated radio or television.

Evacuate if the order is given.

If you’re staying home, stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.

Keep flashlights and extra batteries on hand. Avoid candles and kerosene lamps as a light source.

If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce the surge when it’s restored.

If Officials Order an Evacuation

• Leave as soon as possible — avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
• Secure your home: unplug appliances, turn off electricity and the main water valve.
• Tell someone outside the storm area where you’re going.
• In a surge zone, elevate furniture or move it to a higher floor.
• Bring your pre-assembled emergency kit, blankets, and sleeping bags.
• Lock your home and leave.

One More Thing

Life in the Lowcountry is fabulous almost every day of the year — the trade-off is hurricane season. With the right preparation, the impact can be minimized, and sometimes avoided altogether.

Educating our relocation clients on life here is part of how we take care of you. If you need anything — a referral for storm shutters, help understanding your flood zone, or just someone to talk it through with — don’t hesitate to reach out.