We still don't know the path Hurricane Irma is going to take, but it's not too early to start preparing for the worst. This is currently a category 5 hurricane with winds reaching 185 mph - this is a serious storm.
At this point, you may find the following information helpful:
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.
Preparedness
- Create an emergency kit
- Have a family communication plan
- Create an evacuation plan – where will you go, do they accept pets, how will you get there?
- Make appropriate plans for your pets!
- Check insurance coverage
- Learn how to secure power, gas, and water utilities now
- Fill prescriptions
- Fill vehicles with fuel
- Secure items in yard (trash/recycling and building openings and utilities
- Consult this checklist
- And this checklist too
- Learn about evacuation routes here
City Alerts/Information
- Folly Beach
- If an evacuation of Folly Beach is ordered, the city will implement these rules:
- Residents and property owners will need two forms of identification to get back on the Island
- Island employees must have a city-issued re-entry pass and employee credentials
- Property managers, real estate agents and brokers must have proof of state license and city business license
- Folly intends to move to OPCON 4 tomorrow, which means the city will start initial preparations for a possible storm
- Residents of the island should plan to get their own sandbags
- Sign up for alerts here
- If an evacuation of Folly Beach is ordered, the city will implement these rules:
- Isle of Palms
- If there is an evacuation, residents will need a re-entry sticker to get back on the island.
- To get a sticker, bring proof of residency and vehicle registration to the IOP Police Department/Public Safety Bldg. at 30 J.C. Long Blvd.
- The city tweeted that 2017 Resident Parking Decals will also serve as Hurricane re-entry stickers
- They also tweeted that Wild Dunes Resident Stickers will also serve as Hurricane re-entry stickers.
- Free sand bags are available at the Public Safety Building (in the Municipal Parking Lot). You must fill your own bags
- You can register for Alerts or Special Assistance here
- If you have any questions, call the Non-emergency number: 843-886-6522
- If there is an evacuation, residents will need a re-entry sticker to get back on the island.
- Kiawah Island and Sullivan's Island
- According to the Post & Courier, both are beginning preparations for the storm
