Town Government Citizen Services Public Safety About Our Island How Do I... Employment Opportunities Contact Us Topic Index
     
 
Storm Updates
General Information
Hurricane Preparedness
Evacuation Information
Disaster Recovery
Links & Phone Numbers

Dissemination of Warnings Before the Storm

Prediction Models

The Beaufort County Emergency Management Department currently operates 3 computer models for use during hurricane season. The first model is called SLOSH (Sea Lake and Overland Surge from Hurricane) which is used to predict surge tide and flooding on Hilton Head Island from hurricanes. The second model is a HURREVAC model used to predict evacuation and decision times. The third is a graphic decision system used to display forecast positions, locate gale force winds, and forecast errors.

As hurricanes approach the County area, the Beaufort County Emergency Management Department, in cooperation with the National Weather Service office in Charleston, runs the SLOSH model to predict the effects that the storm may have on the County. The model takes into account the tides, storm landfall, storm size, direction of travel, time of arrival and the forward speed of the storm.

The HURREVAC model is used to determine the amount of time necessary to evacuate Hilton Head Island and Beaufort County. The information is based on the number of dwelling units, tourist units, percent occupancy, and other statistical information that is supplied to the County Emergency Management Office by the Planning Staff of the Town of Hilton Head Island and the County Joint Planning Commission. The model takes into account the number of people in the Bluffton and Jasper County areas that may affect the Hilton Head Island evacuation and determines the evacuation time from the Island through Jasper County.

Notification

Hurricane Watch:  Hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours in the specified area of the Watch.  During a hurricane watch, prepare to take immediate action to proctect your family and property in case a hurricane warning is issued.

  • Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gasoline
  • Review evacuation routes
  • Check your hurricane survival kits
  • Make sure medical prescriptions are filled (recommened 2 weeks) and medicines are packed to go

Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less.  Hurricane conditions include winds of 74 mph  and/or dangerously high tides and waves.  Actions for protection of life and property should begin immediately when the warning is issued. 

  • Move garbage cans, awnings and all large outside objects into your house or garage; anchor them securely
  • Place protective covering (plywood/storm shutters) over windows and garage doors
  • If a vehicle is left behind secure/lock it or put in garage
  • Secure boats or place in building
  • If you have a swimming pool, cover the pump filter
  • If you live in a manufactured home, check tie-downs and always get out immediately to a safe place
  • Lock doors and windows before you leave
  • Don't forget a survival kit and other supplies
  • Let relatives know where you plan to be

Evacuation Orders

Voluntary Relocation:  The Governor of South Carolina will request that visitors and residents leave.  You are not required to leave the Island. However, it is recommended that you leave if possible.

Mandatory Evacuation: When the Governor of South Carolina issues a mandatory evacuation, YOU MUST LEAVE AND SEEK SHELTER INLAND.

Warning Methods

When a storm is approaching the Island, listen to radio stations WGCO 98.3 FM, WYKZ 98.7, WWVV 106.9 FM, or watch Channel WJWJ-TV for emergency information and instructions.

Once a hurricane becomes a threat to Hilton Head Island we provide up-to-date recorded information about the storm throughout the day at the following number: The Island Packet’s Scoop Line 1-888-686-6397 ext 8888, the Beaufort Gazette’s Plus Line 524-7587 ext 8888.  Residents of Hilton Head Island may call locally at 341-4600.

WCSC-TV also provides an in-depth web site that gives information regarding hurricane preparedness. It specifically addresses hurricane preparedness actions that are taking place in different Counties throughout South Carolina.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding hurricane evacuations or reentry procedures, please feel free to contact Paul Rasch at 682-5156, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.