Hurricane Ian Advisory #4 – September 28, 2022

Hurricane Ian Advisory #4
September 28, 2022 – 6:00 pm

Hurricane Ian made landfall along the Florida Gulf Coast on the afternoon of Wednesday, September 28, 2022, as a strong Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph. Hurricane Ian is now moving northeast across the state of Florida and is expected to emerge into the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday.

There is still uncertainty with the track and intensity of the storm after it emerges from the east coast of Florida. Because Ian is now forecast to be over the Atlantic Ocean for a longer period of time, there is an increased possibility of hurricane force winds in our area.

Earlier today, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Hurricane Watch for coastal counties, including Charleston County. The area also remains under a Tropical Storm Warning and Storm Surge Warning.

According to NWS Charleston, there is high confidence that Hurricane Ian will impact our area. Below is a summary of today’s report from NWS Charleston:

  • Minor to moderate wind damage is possible. Tropical storm force winds (39-73 mph) are expected along the South Carolina coast starting on Thursday and continuing into Friday. The best chance for tropical storm force winds, and possibly low-end hurricane force wind gusts (74+ mph), will be along the immediate coast and within any rain bands. Scattered power outages due to downed trees and limbs are a possibility.
  • Moderate coastal flooding is expected Thursday through Saturday, especially during times of high tide. The highest threat for coastal flooding is expected Friday and Friday night. A storm surge of 4-5 feet is possible along the South Carolina coast.
  • Moderate to high threat for flooding rainfall on Friday and early Saturday, especially during times of high tide. A total of 6-8 inches of rain is possible along the coast, with locally higher amounts.
  • Isolated tornadoes are possible, mainly within stronger rain bands between Thursday and Friday nights. The highest threat for tornadoes will be in the coastal areas, especially from Savannah northward.
  • Life-threatening marine/surf conditions will exist Wednesday night through early Saturday, with the worst conditions expected Friday and Friday night. Moderate to severe beach erosion, high surf conditions and dangerous rip currents are likely.

On Wednesday afternoon, Governor Henry McMaster declared a statewide State of Emergency effective at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, September 28th. The Governor has not issued an evacuation order.

During a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, representatives from the Charleston County Emergency Management Department (CCEMD) encouraged residents in low-lying and flood prone areas to consider relocating during the storm. CCEMD representatives also announced the following actions in advance of Hurricane Ian:

  • The county has moved its operational status to OPCON 2 (Enhanced Readiness / Disaster Impacts Likely)
  • The county will open two shelters on Thursday, September 29th. For shelter locations, opening times, and transportation options, please visit www.charlestoncounty.org.
  • The county will activate its citizen information line beginning at 8:00 am on Thursday, September 29th. For non-emergencies, residents may call the citizen information line at (843) 746-3900 between the hours of 8:00 am and 8:00 pm. In the event of an emergency, DIAL 911.
  • All county offices will be closed on Thursday, September 29th, and Friday, September 30th.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the Town of Seabrook Island has also moved its operational status to OPCON 2 (Enhanced Readiness / Disaster Impacts Likely). Town offices will close at 12:00 pm on Thursday, September 29th, and will remain closed on Friday, September 30th. Beach patrol services will also be suspended on Friday, September 30th.

Residents, property owners, and visitors are advised to monitor local media outlets for updates on Hurricane Ian and to make early preparations for potential storm impacts, including possible power outages. Forecasts are also updated regularly on the National Hurricane Center website at www.hurricanes.gov.

As conditions in our area begin to deteriorate, individuals are encouraged to heed the following recommendations:

  • Be prepared for the possible loss of power
  • Secure trash cans, yard furniture, and other outdoor items
  • Avoid unnecessary travel
  • Do not walk or drive through water
  • Be advised that bridges on and off Johns Island and throughout the county may be closed due to high winds
  • If you live in a low-lying area, consider moving your vehicles to higher ground
  • Call 911 in the event of an emergency

The next Town advisory is anticipated to be distributed on the afternoon of Thursday, September 29th, unless conditions warrant an earlier update.

Property owners and managers with rental guests should forward this information to their rental guests. Owners and managers of commercial establishments are also encouraged to share this information with their employees.

Official updates from the town will be posted on the following town channels, as warranted:

Sign up for the Town’s emergency notification system CodeRED. If you are unsure if you are registered, you can re-register without receiving duplicate notices. Be sure to opt-in for severe weather warning alerts. Click here to register.

In the event of an emergency, please call 911. Emergency calls to 911 should be reserved for life-threatening situations, or for the reporting of a crime or fire. Do NOT call 911 if you have water in your home unless your life is in danger. Do NOT call 911 to report a power outage. Power outages should be reported directly to Berkeley Electric Cooperative.

-Submitted by Joseph M. Cronin, Town Administrator, Town of Seabrook Island