Hurricane Season Is Here. Now Is the Time to Prepare.
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season began June 1. While there is no immediate threat to our area, now is a good time to review your household plan, restock your emergency kit and know where to turn if the situation changes.
A storm can quickly disrupt daily life, from power outages and road closures to missed work, transportation challenges and limited access to food, shelter or trusted information. Preparing ahead of time can help you respond quickly if a storm approaches.
Start With Three Simple Steps
Know your evacuation zone.
There are nine evacuation zones in the Tri-County area, labeled A through I. Many residents live in an evacuation zone, so it is important to know yours before a storm is approaching.
Look up your zone:
https://www.scemd.org/prepare/know-your-zone/
Make a household plan.
Talk through where you will go if you need to evacuate, how you will get there and how your household will communicate if you are separated or cell service is limited.
Helpful planning resources:
https://www.scemd.org/stay-informed/emergency-shelters/
https://www.scemd.org/prepare/your-emergency-plan/family-disaster-plan/
https://www.scemd.org/prepare/your-emergency-plan/pet-planning/
Build or restock your emergency kit.
After a hurricane or major storm, people may need to rely on their own supplies before outside help is available. A good starting point is preparing enough supplies for at least three days.
Include essentials such as water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, hygiene items, important documents, phone chargers and supplies for children, pets or older adults in your household.
Helpful resources:
https://www.scemd.org/prepare/your-emergency-plan/family-disaster-plan/family-emergency-kit/
A Few More Ways to Prepare
If possible, keep your car’s gas tank at least half full during hurricane season. If you use a generator, consider keeping a gas can available, since gas cans and other storm supplies can sell out quickly once a storm is named.
Keep important documents in a safe, accessible place. Check in with neighbors and loved ones who may need extra support. Save 211 as a contact in your phone.
Sign Up for Local Emergency Alerts
County emergency alert systems provide real-time updates about severe weather, evacuations, road closures and other urgent information.
Berkeley County:
https://berkeleycountysc.gov/emergency-alerts-signup/
Charleston County:
https://www.charlestoncounty.gov/departments/emergency-management/alert-removal.php
Dorchester County:
https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=dorchestercountysc
Remember 211 Is Here
If you need help finding local resources before, during or after a storm, 211 can help.
Call 211, text 211-211 or visit 211hotline.org to find support.
If you are experiencing an emergency or immediate danger, call 911.
Taking a few simple steps now can help you feel more prepared and know where to turn before, during and after severe weather.