Tropical Storm Ian Advisory #5

Tropical Storm Ian Advisory #5
September 29, 2022 – 3:00 pm

Tropical Storm Ian has emerged from the east coast of Florida and has entered the Atlantic Ocean. Ian currently has maximum sustained winds of 70 miles per hour. Additional strengthening is possible over the next 24 hours. The current forecast calls for Ian to regain hurricane status prior to making a second landfall on the South Carolina coast on Friday.
 
As of 11:00 am on Thursday, the National Weather Service has issued a HURRICANE WARNING for the entire South Carolina coast. This means that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected within the specified area. A STORM SURGE WARNING remains in effect for the entire coast.
 
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 wind damage is possible today and tonight. Minor to moderate wind damage will be possible on Friday and into Friday evening. The strongest tropical storm force winds (39-73 mph), and possibly low-end hurricane force wind gusts (74+ mph), are expected along the immediate coast and within any rain bands on Friday and into Friday evening.
• Life threatening storm surge inundation is expected, especially on Friday. Major coastal flooding is expected today and tonight through Friday, especially during times of high tide. A storm surge of 4-7 feet is possible in Charleston County.
• Moderate to high threat for flooding rainfall, especially on Friday. A total of 4-8 inches of rain is anticipated, with localized amounts as high as 12 inches along and east of I-95.
• Isolated tornadoes are possible, mainly within stronger rain bands on Friday and into Friday evening. The highest threat for tornadoes will be in the Charleston Tri-County region.
• Life-threatening marine/surf conditions will exist through Friday. Moderate to severe beach erosion, high surf conditions and dangerous rip currents are expected.

 
As of 2:00 pm Thursday, Charleston County has moved to OPCON 1 (Disaster Imminent or Occurring / Full Emergency Response Operations). County offices will remain closed on Friday. Charleston County Emergency Management Department (CCEMD) encourages residents in low-lying and flood prone areas to consider relocating during the storm. The county’s citizen information line will be available for non-emergency calls between 8:00 am to 8:00 pm at (843) 746-3900. For shelter locations, opening times, and transportation options, please contact the county’s citizen information line or visit the county website at www.charlestoncounty.org.
 
The Town of Seabrook Island is currently at OPCON 2 (Enhanced Readiness / Disaster Impacts Likely). Town offices closed at 12:00 pm on Thursday and will remain closed on Friday. Beach patrol services will also be suspended on Friday.
 
Residents, property owners, and visitors are strongly advised to monitor local media outlets for updates on Tropical Storm Ian and to prepare for potential storm impacts. Forecasts are also updated regularly on the National Hurricane Center website at www.hurricanes.gov.
 
As conditions in our area begin to deteriorate later today and especially Friday, individuals are encouraged to heed the following recommendations:

• Be prepared for flooding, especially during periods of high tide (around 11:00 pm on Thursday, noon and midnight on Friday)
• If you live in a low-lying area, consider relocating to higher ground during the storm
• Be prepared for the possible loss of power
• Secure trash cans, yard furniture, and other outdoor items
• Shelter in place and 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 deemed unsafe for travel due to high winds
• Call 911 in the event of an emergency; however, be advised that police, fire, and EMS resources may be limited and/or relocated during high winds and/or flooding
• Review the South Carolina Hurricane Guide for additional information

 
The next Town advisory is anticipated to be distributed on the afternoon of Friday, September 30th, 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.
 
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Official updates from the town will be posted on the following town channels, as warranted:

• Website: www.townofseabrookisland.org
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/townofseabrookisland
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/seabrookislnd87
• Toll Free Number: (888) 314-3177

 
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.
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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.