South Carolina is most likely to have tropical storms, hurricanes and floods during the months of June through November each year. The South Carolina Department of Health (DPH) encourages its residents to be ready for storms that may come our way. While storms and hurricanes cannot be prevented, you can take actions to protect yourself and your family.
Actions You Can Take
Before and During the Storm
- Stay Informed
- Make Your Emergency Supply Kit
- Prepare for Evacuation
- Shelter During Disasters
- Individuals with Functional Needs
- Protect Your Pets in an Emergency
After the Storm
- Return Home Safely
- Practice Water and Food Safety
- Beware of Indoor Mold
- Protect Yourself from Animals and Insects
- Emergency Wound Care After a Natural Disaster (pdf)
Helpful Publications and Websites
South Carolina Hurricane Guide
The South Carolina Hurricane Guide [Español is updated annually by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) in collaboration with local and state partners of the South Carolina Emergency Response Team. In addition, South Carolina has a new online home for hurricane preparedness. Visit hurricane.sc to know your hurricane evacuation zone and to get started on your hurricane safety plan.
Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters
The purpose of Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters [Español] is to provide a preparedness and response resource for all jurisdictions to use before, during, and after a response. It includes information on disaster-related challenges including food safety, carbon monoxide poisoning, waterborne diseases, and mold.
Other Useful Websites
- American Red Cross
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- FEMA for KIDS
- National Weather Service
- NOAA National Hurricane Center
- Ready.gov (U.S. Department of Homeland Security)
- South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES)
- South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD)