NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Derrec Becker or Tiffanie Barrett
Phone: 803-737-8500 | Social: @SCEMD
New Hurricane Evacuation Zones Unveiled ahead of hurricane season
Take time now to Know Your Zone
Columbia, S.C. – As hurricane season approaches, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division announces new hurricane evacuation zones aimed at helping community preparedness and safety during hurricanes.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division, county emergency managers, the National Weather Service along with all members of the State Emergency Response Team, the updated evacuation zones have been designed to better reflect the evolving landscape of potential hazards and population distribution across the region. These zones take into account factors such as storm surge risk, flood susceptibility, and evacuation routes to ensure more accurate and effective evacuation orders.
The new hurricane evacuation zones include:
Enhanced Accuracy: The new zones provide a more precise understanding of the areas most vulnerable to hurricane impacts, allowing for more targeted evacuation orders and resource allocation.
Expanded Coverage: The updated evacuation zones account for the growth and development of communities since the last revision. This expansion ensures that all residents in high-risk areas are included and aware of evacuation protocols.
Clear Communication: Residents can quickly determine what zone they are in using the Know Your Zone tool at Hurricane.SC, and in the SC Emergency Manager mobile app. The printed version of the annual South Carolina Hurricane Guide will become available throughout the month of May this year.
Community Engagement: Community outreach efforts will be intensified to educate residents about the importance of preparedness and evacuation planning. Educational materials will be made available to empower individuals and families to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions ahead of time.
The unveiling of the new hurricane evacuation zones represents a proactive measure by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division to prioritize public safety and mitigate the potential impact of severe weather events. By staying informed, vigilant, and prepared, residents can play a pivotal role in safeguarding themselves and their communities during times of crisis.
Hurricane season begins June 1 and lasts through November 30.
Visit scemd.org for more information on the new hurricane evacuation zones and preparedness resources.