COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – As South Carolina enters the busiest stretch of hurricane season, state officials are encouraging residents to use September to make sure they are ready before the next disaster strikes.
Gov. Henry McMaster has proclaimed September 2026 as Preparedness Month in South Carolina, highlighting the importance of planning for hurricanes, flooding, severe storms, tornadoes, extreme heat and other emergencies that can impact communities across the state.
The campaign comes as South Carolina remains in the heart of Atlantic hurricane season, a time when tropical systems can quickly develop and threaten the coast and inland areas.
"Emergencies can happen at any time, and South Carolina families know firsthand how quickly conditions can change," McMaster said. "From hurricanes and flooding to severe winter weather, being prepared before a disaster strikes helps protect lives, reduces impacts and allows communities to recover more quickly."
Officials say preparedness goes beyond buying supplies before a storm. It includes having a family emergency plan, knowing evacuation routes and hurricane evacuation zones, maintaining emergency contacts and ensuring everyone in the household understands what to do if conditions deteriorate.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division said recent disasters have demonstrated how quickly weather and emergency situations can escalate, making advance preparation critical.
"Preparedness does not have to be complicated or expensive," SCEMD Director Kim Stenson said. "Small actions, such as creating a plan, putting together an emergency kit and knowing your hurricane evacuation zone, can make a significant difference when an emergency occurs."
Emergency management officials recommend residents:
Create or update a family emergency plan.
Build an emergency supply kit.
Know evacuation routes and hurricane evacuation zones.
Sign up for emergency alerts and warnings.
Make plans for pets during emergencies.
Review insurance coverage and important documents.
Officials say the goal is simple: taking steps now can help families act more quickly, reduce risks and recover faster when disasters occur.
More information about emergency preparedness resources is available through the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.
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