Here’s how to prepare in SC as Tropical Storm Debby moves closer to the state

Debby strengthened to a Cat. 1 hurricane and made landfall in Florida on Monday, according to the National Weather Service, but since been downgraded to a tropical storm. It’s expected to begin impacting the Midlands Monday night and continue through Tuesday and Wednesday. The NWS has forecast potentially historic rainfall and widespread flooding.

According to the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, South Carolina is one of the most vulnerable states to hurricanes and tropical storms all throughout the season, which lasts until Nov. 30.

Six coastal counties border the Atlantic Ocean. These counties have more than 200 miles of general coastline and another 21 inland counties may be directly affected by these storms. Densely populated coastal areas, especially during peak tourist seasons, coupled with the generally low coastal elevations significantly increase the state’s vulnerability.

South Carolina is expected to have an above-normal hurricane season for the remainder of the year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The agency expects there could be up to 25 named storms during the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season — the most federal forecasters have ever predicted.

Here are five ways to prepare for the 2024 hurricane season, according to the SCEMD.

Know your zone in South Carolina

State and local officials issue hurricane evacuations based on zones in coastal counties. Know your hurricane evacuation zone instantly with the SC Emergency Manager mobile app and Hurricane.sc, South Carolina’s online hurricane guide.

Prepare your home

Do a safety check to make sure your home is best able to withstand the effects of a hurricane. Have your roof inspected, double check hurricane shutters and make sure your insurance policies cover the types of damages hurricanes can cause. Make a list and take photos of your belongings as records.

Have a family emergency plan

Emergency responders across the state encourage residents to create a family emergency plan in the event of a hurricane, which should include an evacuation destination and agreed-upon meeting locations. In addition, residents should keep phones charged when possible and maintain a way to find out the latest information on storms and impacts to their home area. SCEMD’s Hurricane Guide provides more safety and planning recommendations.

Remember your evacuation route

Be aware of the closest hurricane evacuation route ahead. This will allow for a more efficient and safer route out of the area if a hurricane is heading your way. Once you’ve learned your route, stick with it and remember it. Rely on the blue hurricane evacuation signs, not GPS. To review hurricane routes, review the state’s hurricane guide.

Hurricanes and tropical storms not only threaten the coast, but all areas of South Carolina. Storm surge and flooding are the most deadly and destructive hazards associated with tropical storms and hurricanes. High winds and tornadoes can cause severe damage to buildings and homes.

Have multiple hurricane alert options

Your family should have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts that can tell you what’s happening and what you need to do. Those include wireless emergency alerts on mobile devices, NOAA weather radios and local broadcast TV or radio. Do not rely on just one way to get emergency information.

For additional public safety notifications, sign up for CodeRED alerts. You can select what types of alerts to receive and by what method, including text message, voice phone call or email.

Register for CodeRED alerts for free through the SCEMD website by visiting scemd.org.