Hurricane Irma Update: Prepare, Don’t Panic (9/5/17)

September 5, 2017

10:26 PM

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
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
Kiawah Island and Sullivan’s Island
- According to the Post & Courier, both are beginning preparations for the storm