It’s clear that Hurricane Irma will have an impact on South Carolina – to what extent, we still don’t know. Despite that uncertainty, state officials are certainly not taking a “wait-and-see” approach. The message from both state and county press conferences was consistent – evacuation may be necessary and is highly encouraged.
Officials have requested that you leave now if you can. Gov. Henry McMaster said today he is almost certain he will order a mandatory evacuation for coastal counties by 10 am on Saturday. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to leave.
Officials said they are preparing for Category 3 winds by late Sunday and expect landfall in or close to South Carolina by late Monday/early Tuesday. Winds and storm surge are the biggest concerns right now. Irma is expected to be more dangerous than Hurricane Matthew, which hit the area in October.
As you prepare, you may find this info helpful:
Evacuation
Forecasts/Advisories
- Up-to-date information can be found on the National Hurricane Center’s website.
- You can track the hurricane and its possible paths here.
