Survival & Preparedness

Hurricane Preparedness for Carolina Homeowners

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. Every year, the Carolinas face the threat of major storms. Since 2016, North Carolina alone has been hit by Hurricanes Matthew, Florence, Dorian, and Isaias. South Carolina took a direct hit from Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and has faced significant impacts from multiple storms since.

According to NOAA's National Hurricane Center, the Atlantic hurricane season has become more active in recent decades. The question is not if another hurricane will affect the Carolinas, but when.

This guide walks you through everything Carolina homeowners need to do before, during, and after a hurricane.

Before Hurricane Season: January Through May

The best time to prepare is before storm season starts. Once a hurricane is heading your way, stores sell out fast and contractors are booked.

Protect Your Home

• Inspect your roof. Replace missing or damaged shingles. Secure flashing around chimneys and vents.
• Trim trees. Cut dead branches and limbs that hang over your home. Flying branches cause major damage.
• Secure windows. Install hurricane shutters or pre-cut plywood panels. Label each panel for its window.
• Check your drainage. Clean gutters and downspouts. Make sure water flows away from your foundation.
• Consider a safe room. A FEMA-rated safe room gives your family a place to shelter when evacuation is not possible. It also protects against the tornadoes that hurricanes spawn.

Build Your Supply Kit

• At least 7 days of water (1 gallon per person per day)
• At least 7 days of shelf-stable food
• Full survival kit
• Backup power: generator with fuel or battery power station
• Cash in small bills (ATMs do not work without power)
• Full tank of gas in your car

Make a Family Plan

• Know your evacuation zone. NC and SC both have zone maps on their emergency management websites.
• Plan your evacuation route. Have two routes in case one is blocked.
• Identify where you will go: a friend's house inland, a hotel, or a shelter.
• Complete your family emergency communication plan.
• Make copies of important documents. Keep them in a waterproof bag.

When a Hurricane Watch Is Issued (48 Hours Out)

A hurricane watch means a hurricane is possible in your area within 48 hours. Time to act.

• Fill your car with gas.
• Withdraw cash from the bank.
• Buy any last supplies (ice, batteries, water if you are short).
• Install hurricane shutters or plywood over windows.
• Bring outdoor furniture, decorations, and trash cans inside.
• Charge all devices: phones, power banks, laptops, weather radio.
• Fill bathtubs with water (for flushing toilets and cleaning, not drinking).
• If you are in an evacuation zone, prepare to leave.

When a Hurricane Warning Is Issued (36 Hours Out)

A hurricane warning means a hurricane is expected in your area. This is the final window to act.

• If ordered to evacuate: go. Leave early to avoid traffic. Take your survival kit, documents, medications, and pets.
• If sheltering in place: Move to your safe room or the strongest interior room on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings.
• Fill reusable water containers.
• Make sure your safe room is stocked and ready.

During the Hurricane

After the Hurricane

The danger does not end when the wind stops. Post-hurricane hazards include flooding, downed power lines, contaminated water, and structural damage.

• Do not return home until authorities say it is safe.
• Watch for downed power lines. Report them to your utility company.
• Do not drink tap water until your utility confirms it is safe.
• Photograph all damage before cleaning up (for insurance claims).
• Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and long sleeves during cleanup.
• Check your home for structural damage before going inside. Look for shifted foundations, leaning walls, and sagging roofs.
• Throw away any food that may have been contaminated by flood water.

Carolina-Specific Resources

• North Carolina Emergency Management — evacuation zones, shelter locations, and real-time alerts.
• South Carolina Emergency Management Division — know your zone tool, evacuation routes, and weather updates.
• National Hurricane Center — official forecasts, storm tracks, and watches/warnings.
• FEMA Ready.gov Hurricane Guide — federal preparedness guidelines.

Why a Safe Room Matters for Hurricanes

Hurricanes bring more than wind. They bring tornadoes. The Storm Prediction Center reports that hurricanes can spawn dozens of tornadoes as they move inland. These tornadoes form quickly and often at night. A FEMA-rated safe room protects against both the hurricane itself and the tornadoes it creates.

If evacuation is not an option — due to timing, health, or road conditions — a safe room is the best place to be.