New to Hilton Head Island and wondering how to handle hurricane season? You are not alone. With a little local know-how and a simple plan, you can protect your household and your property with confidence. In this guide, you’ll learn the island’s evacuation basics, how to check your flood risk, what insurance to secure, and the steps to take before and after a storm. Let’s dive in.
Understand Hilton Head hurricane risk
Hilton Head’s hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and recent outlooks point to active conditions in the Atlantic. NOAA’s seasonal forecast is your best high-level snapshot each year.
As a barrier island, Hilton Head is exposed to storm surge, tidal flooding, heavy rain, and strong winds. Many properties sit in mapped flood zones. The Town’s resources explain local low-lying areas and why surge drives evacuation decisions. Use these insights to plan early and avoid last-minute scrambles.
Map your evacuation now
A safe, simple evacuation plan is the most important step you can take today. The Governor of South Carolina can order an evacuation, and the Town will share route guidance and timing. Review the Town’s evacuation page and make your plan before storms form.
Routes and timing
- Primary routes are William Hilton Parkway and the Cross Island Parkway along US‑278. During major evacuations, lane reversals may be used. Follow official signage and stay on posted routes.
- Leave early to beat congestion. Identify an inland destination, book lodging if needed, and share your plan with family.
Transportation and special needs
- If you need assistance during an ordered evacuation, the Town coordinates Special Call Pickup with regional partners. Details and contacts are posted on the evacuation page as storms approach.
Shelters and pets
- County shelters typically open inland and only during a threat. Most public shelters do not accept pets. When pet‑friendly options are available, they are announced during the event. Local news will post updates, like this recent notice on pet shelter openings.
- Make a backup plan for pets now. Identify pet‑friendly hotels, boarding, or a friend inland. Pack vaccination records, leashes, crates, and supplies.
Re-entry and updates
- After a storm, access is phased and controlled. The Town posts re‑entry details, recovery hotlines, and official updates on its emergency information page. Sign up for alerts so you get the latest guidance.
Protect your property and paperwork
Smart prep protects both your home and your financial recovery.
Check your flood zone
- Look up your address using the Town’s Flood Hazard Zone Search. Note your flood zone and whether your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
Get flood insurance early
- Standard homeowners and renters policies do not cover flood damage. The Town encourages residents to consider NFIP flood insurance, and most policies carry a 30‑day waiting period before coverage begins. Start now using the Town’s flood insurance guidance.
- If a lender requires it based on your zone, you must maintain coverage. Even outside high‑risk zones, a policy can be a smart move.
Secure elevation documents
- Elevation certificates can reduce premiums and are needed for some NFIP ratings. Search Town records or request help through the Elevation Certificate resource.
Pre-storm home checklist
Use an official checklist to avoid missing essentials. The Ready.gov hurricane toolkit recommends you:
- Build a 72‑hour kit with water, shelf‑stable food, medicines, cash, and chargers.
- Secure outdoor items, trim trees, and check roof attachments. Pre‑fit storm shutters or plywood.
- Back up key documents and photos to cloud and paper. Photograph valuables for claims.
- Prep a “go‑bag” with IDs, insurance policies, prescriptions, pet supplies, and a spare set of keys.
Generator and fuel safety
- Expect power outages during and after storms. If you use a generator, run it outdoors away from windows and follow all manufacturer instructions to avoid carbon monoxide hazards. For reporting hazards and local safety guidance after a storm, use the Town’s damage and outage page.
After the storm: first steps
- Report hazards: Treat downed lines as live and report immediately. Use the Town’s damage and outage page for reporting utilities, flooding, and debris concerns.
- Document everything: Take photos and videos of damage before cleanup. Keep receipts for emergency repairs. FEMA reminds residents to document early and keep policy copies ready. See this FEMA readiness guidance.
- Follow official updates: Re‑entry, debris pickup, and service restorations will be announced by the Town and County. Check the emergency information page for current instructions.
When you plan early, hurricane season becomes manageable. If you are buying or selling on the island, you deserve a local advisor who understands flood maps, elevation certificates, and the realities of coastal living. For tailored guidance before your next move, connect with John Campbell.
FAQs
When is hurricane season on Hilton Head?
- The Atlantic season runs June 1 through November 30, with peak activity in late summer and early fall. Check NOAA’s seasonal outlook each year and prepare early.
Who orders evacuations, and which route should I use?
- The Governor of South Carolina can order evacuations. Plan to leave early using US‑278 via William Hilton Parkway and the Cross Island Parkway, and follow Town route guidance.
Do I need flood insurance if I am not in a high‑risk zone?
- Flood insurance is still recommended because standard home policies exclude flood damage. Many claims occur outside high‑risk zones, and policies usually have a 30‑day waiting period.
How do I find my home’s flood zone and elevation certificate?
- Use the Town’s Flood Hazard Zone Search to look up your zone and request elevation certificate records through the Town’s resources or by contacting staff for assistance.
Can I bring my pet to a county shelter during a storm?
- Most public shelters do not accept pets. Pet‑friendly options, when available, are announced during the event. Have a backup plan with pet‑friendly lodging or boarding.
What should I do right after a storm passes?
- Put safety first, report hazards, document damage with photos and receipts, and monitor Town and County channels for re‑entry and debris pickup instructions.
