Hurricane Season is Here - Prepare Today!
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and even a weaker storm can bring serious impacts like flooding, power outages, and property damage. Do not wait until a storm is approaching, get ready now to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Here are five key steps to help you prepare:
1. Build an Emergency Kit
Make sure your emergency kit is fully stocked with essentials like:
- Bottled water and non-perishable food
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid supplies and medications
- Important documents
- Items for pets 🐾 (yes, they need a kit too!)
Click here to learn more about emergency kits
Pet emergency kit tips
2. Know How to Evacuate
Be familiar with Chatham County’s evacuation routes and zones. If local officials issue an evacuation order and you don’t have transportation, the Chatham County Evacuation Assembly Area will be available to help transport you to a safe location.
During major evacuations, contraflow may be activated on I-16 to help traffic move inland faster.
Learn more about evacuation routes and zones
3. Prep Your Property and Check Insurance
- Trim dead or weak branches near your home
- Fix any leaks or problem areas around doors and windows
- Keep plywood or storm panels on hand to protect windows
📞 Call your insurance provider for a check-up to ensure you’re covered.
Reminder: Homeowners and renters’ insurance does not cover flood damage—you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy.
More on flood insurance
4. Stay Informed
Sign up for emergency alerts and monitor local news and weather forecasts.
Text CEMA to 77295 or sign up online to receive real-time updates from Chatham Emergency Management Agency.
📱 Weather apps are also a great way to get alerts as storms develop.
5. Make a Family Plan
Talk with your household about what to do if a hurricane strikes.
- Choose a meeting place
- Create a communication plan
- Pick an out-of-town contact everyone can reach
After a disaster, long-distance calls may work better than local ones—make sure everyone has the designated out-of-town contact’s info.
By planning ahead and staying informed, you can better protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind this hurricane season.