FAQ: What about hurricanes?

What about hurricanes?

We are sitting on an island with elevated houses because Hurricane Hugo washed over the island in 1989 with a 15 foot wall of water. (In fact, there are no squirrels, possums, or skunks on the island, because they all washed off too, and they can’t swim. But that’s besides the point.) YOU NEED TO PAY ATTENTION to the weather. We suggest you get trip insurance (and we recommend insuremytrip.com, because we used to sail with the guy who started that company, and it is what we use when we travel.) Occasionally, severe thunderstorms roll across the island and provide us with fabulous rainbows, and recently, remarkable hail. You are responsible for seeking shelter in a storm.

In the event of a hurricane, Dewees Island will evacuate EARLY. As soon as a voluntary evacuation order is issued for Charleston’s barrier islands, Dewees will issue a MANDATORY evacuation order. That means, you will need to back up and go asap… the owner may need to do some storm preparation, and, as a renter, you will need to get off the island with your things almost immediately. You will want to know the evacuation routes… from Dewees, take the IOP connector North and follow signs… you will either be directed to 526 to I95, or Route 41.

When the water gets warm and there is a hint of fall (on the calendar at least!) all eyes turn to the tropics.  We HIGHLY recommend you get vacation insurance to protect your vacation– we are partial to the guys atinsuremytrip.com, where you can shop plans till you find one that meets your needs.  We’ll try to work with you to reschedule your vacation in the event that weather forces you to reschedule, but vacation insurance is the only way you can be sure of a reimbursement for money already spent.

Dewees Island will evacuate BEFORE the Isle of Palms or Mount Pleasant, as soon as a voluntary evacuation is ordered. If an evacuation is ordered, you will be asked to leave the island on the first possible ferry.  There is generally not an a evacuation order for a tropical storm or severe thunderstorm.  You are responsible for your safety– stay away from windows and doors, pay attention to the weather forecasts, be aware of rip tide dangers, have an evacuation plan.  We would appreciate it if you have a chance to being outdoor furniture in and close shutters, if you are able.

We like both the  National Hurricane Center and Wunderground for weather forecasts.  The zip code for Dewees Island and the Isle of Palms is 29451.  You can learn more about hurricanes at SCHurricane.com.

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