Hurricane Preparedness Month

Columbia, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster has declared May as South Carolina Hurricane Preparedness Month, encouraging residents to prepare now for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division, State Emergency Response Team members, and county emergency managers are urging people, communities, and businesses to plan ahead, gather supplies, and stay informed.

The state's Hurricane Preparedness Month theme, “Plan Ahead. Stay Ahead,” encourages South Carolinians to take simple steps now before a storm is on the horizon. Being prepared ahead of time helps you stay one step ahead of any storm.

Know Your Zone. In South Carolina, hurricane evacuation decisions are based on designated zones in coastal counties. You can quickly find your zone using the SC Emergency Manager mobile app, downloading the 2026 South Carolina Hurricane Guide or by visiting Hurricane.sc.

Prepare Your Home. Check your home now to make sure it’s ready for hurricane season. Inspect your roof, clean your gutters, and review your insurance coverage. Take photos and make a list of your belongings for documentation so you’re prepared if damage occurs.

Remember Your Route. Identify your nearest hurricane evacuation route before the season begins. If your area is ordered to evacuate, follow guidance from local authorities and blue hurricane evacuation signs throughout the state, as they are more reliable than GPS navigation.

With more than 180 miles of coastline and many low-lying communities, South Carolina faces a high risk from hurricanes and tropical storms. While coastal areas often see the greatest impact, these storms can cause damage across the entire state. Flooding and storm surge remain the most serious threats, while high winds and tornadoes can also lead to significant destruction.

Recent storms have shown just how far-reaching these impacts can be, bringing power outages, fallen trees, tornadoes, and inland flooding to communities well beyond the coast. These events serve as a strong reminder that preparation is essential, no matter where you live in the state.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, making early preparation essential.