Seabrook Island Inclement Weather Preparation
Seabrook Island’s proximity to the Atlantic makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and flooding. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with September typically being the peak. As a barrier island, our location means that preparation and readiness for such weather events are vital. Additionally, residents should also consider risks associated with high winds, storm surges, and power outages that often accompany severe storms.
The Seabrook Island Emergency Preparedness Committee
Seabrook Island’s leadership has taken emergency preparedness seriously by organizing the Seabrook Island Emergency Preparedness Committee. This group provides information on how residents can protect themselves and their homes during emergencies. The committee focuses on communication, risk reduction, and response, ensuring that residents are informed and ready to act when emergencies arise.
The Town of Seabrook Island also offers resources and guidelines for hurricane preparedness and other natural disasters. Their emergency preparedness webpage includes vital resources like evacuation routes, shelter locations, and storm preparedness tips.
Get Prepared with these simple steps:
- Create an Emergency Kit: Having a well-stocked emergency kit is essential for any household. Ensure your kit includes non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, medications, flashlights, batteries, important documents, and cash. It is also important to have enough supplies to last at least 72 hours.
- Have a Family Emergency Plan: Developing an emergency plan that all household members are familiar with is key. This includes identifying evacuation routes, communication plans, and safe meeting spots. It’s especially important for Seabrook Island residents to be aware of their designated evacuation zones and the routes they will need to take to reach safety.
- Secure Your Home: In anticipation of severe weather, homeowners should take steps to protect their properties. This includes installing storm shutters, securing outdoor furniture (inside or below your home, preferably), and reinforcing garage doors to prevent wind damage. Protecting windows and doors can prevent costly damages from debris and high winds.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Seabrook Island residents are encouraged to have backup power sources, such as generators, to ensure they have access to electricity during an extended power outage. Having adequate fuel and understanding how to safely operate generators are also important considerations. Pro tip: Know that buying a generator before storm season ensures more affordability and access.
- Stay Informed: The town’s website offers an alert system that keeps residents up to date with real-time information during emergencies. Signing up for these alerts is a great way to stay informed about approaching storms, evacuation orders, and safety guidelines.
- Evacuation Planning: Knowing when and where to evacuate is essential during hurricanes. The Seabrook Island Town website provides resources that include local evacuation routes and shelter options. Residents should plan their evacuation in advance, have a full tank of gas, and keep a go-bag packed with essentials.
Specific Preparations for Hurricanes
Given that hurricanes are a primary concern on Seabrook Island, specific measures to prepare for these events include:
- Tracking the Storm: Keep an eye on weather reports and alerts from trusted sources such as the National Hurricane Center.
- Boarding Up Windows: Shutters or plywood can be used to protect windows from flying debris. The island often experiences high winds during hurricanes, which can cause significant damage if homes are not properly secured.
- Storing Valuables: Important documents, electronics, and other valuables should be moved to higher areas in the home to avoid water damage in case of flooding.
- Evacuating Early: If an evacuation order is issued, leave early to avoid traffic and dangerous conditions on the roads. Be sure to check local shelters’ pet policies if you have animals to consider.
Seabrook Island is proactive in keeping its residents informed and protected. The Seabrook Island Property Owners Association (SIPOA) and the town collaborate closely to provide essential resources and communicate crucial updates in the face of emergencies. For example, during Hurricane Florence, residents received practical advice on securing their homes, protecting valuables, and avoiding flood damage by barricading windows and doors.
Don’t forget to sign up for Code Red alerts to stay informed when there is a weather emergency or the conditions are right for a weather emergency.
Emergency Response Teams for Seabrook Island Residents
If you’ve been impacted by a storm and need services, here is who you can reach out to (copied from the Seabrook Island Town website):
Road Hazards & Other Safety Concerns
To report road hazards and other safety concerns behind the SIPOA Security Gate:
- Seabrook Island POA Security
- Phone: (843) 768-6641
Utility Issues
To report water and sewer outages, spills or line breaks:
- Seabrook Island Utility Commission
- Phone: (843) 768-0102
- Website: www.siuc.org
To report power outages:
- Berkeley Electric Cooperative
- Phone: (888) 253-4232
- Website: www.berkeleyelectric.coop
We have all the resources you need to stay safe and to keep your property safe during storm season. For new residents: don’t hesitate to reach out to your neighbors, too. Many of us have been through multiple storm seasons and know how to prepare.