Tropical Storm Debby Update #2

The Town is continuing to monitor and prepare for the potential impacts from Tropical Storm Debby. We are now under a tropical storm watch. Governor Henry McMaster has also declared a State of Emergency for South Carolina. According to the National Weather Service and Charleston County officials, the biggest impact remains to be major rainfall that could lead to what they are calling catastrophic flooding across our area. The forecast models continue to show the storm sitting along our coast for several days.

The National Weather Service says heavy rainfall could be expected starting Monday through at least Thursday with 10 to 20 inches, and up to 30 inches are possible along the coast. Tropical storm force winds could also be felt as early as Monday. A 2 to 4 foot storm surge is also possible.

We are urging residents to stay off the roadways during the storm as some roads could become dangerous to drive through.

The St. John’s Fire Department has a high-water vehicle on-hand and stands ready to assist as needed. They have also requested additional high-water resources. Chief Ryan Kunitzer is urging people to keep travel to a minimum Tuesday through Thursday as road closures could be possible due to flooding.

Charleston County will be opening a shelter that is pet friendly at the Sheriff’s Office at 3841 Leeds Avenue in North Charleston tomorrow at 8 AM. They will be using normal CARTA routes for those who need transportation.

Our Disaster Recovery Council will be meeting tomorrow at 12:30 PM to discuss preparations for the Town.
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We encourage residents to continue to monitor local meteorologists weather updates this week to get the latest updates on Tropical Storm Debby. Now is the time to sign up for CodeRED to get emergency updates. We will continue to follow guidance from Charleston County leaders and update you all throughout the week.

​SAFETY REMINDERS

• DIAL 911 FOR EMERGENCIES. Emergency calls to 911 should be reserved for life-threatening situations, or for the reporting of a crime or fire.
• SECURE BELONGINGS. Residents should secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, and other materials which may become airborne during high winds.
• STAY HOME. If possible, residents are encouraged to stay off the roads during the storm. Do not attempt to drive through water of unknown depth. Turn around, don’t drown!
• MONITOR LOCAL NEWS OUTLETS. Residents are advised to monitor local media outlets for storm updates and emergency notices.
• REPORT POWER OUTAGES. Power outages may be reported to Berkeley Electric Cooperative by phone at (888) 253-4232 or online at https://www.berkeleyelectric.coop/. 
• FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA. For the most up-to-date information, follow the Town of Seabrook Island on Facebook and X.

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.