Message from the Mayor Re: Idalia

Here we go again!  Even though many of us have dealt with these storms in the past, it is always a good idea to revisit our personal preparation.  There are many new owners who have not been through this, so just a few quick reminders.  

The briefing held this morning noted sustained winds of 45 mph gusting up to 60 mph, heavy rainfall of 4 to 6 inches with flash flooding, and a storm surge of 2 to 4 feet.  The largest impact will begin Wednesday afternoon and go through the night into Thursday morning.  We are looking at a king tide in the middle of this tropical storm passage Wednesday evening of 7.5 feet.  Add the projected storm surge to this, and we can plan on saltwater inundation all around the beach, so be prepared.  

During the evening Wednesday, please shelter in place and do not go out sightseeing.  We don’t want to put our first responders unnecessarily at risk.  To be prepared, secure your garbage cans, outdoor deck and porch furniture, elevate items that can be at risk of flood damage from the saltwater surge.  Also, prepare for power outages.  

The plan here is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.  Edisto Beach Police and Fire Departments are prepared, as well as the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office and Colleton County Fire and Rescue, so take some time today to prepare your property. During your preparation be reminded that sandbags are available at the Fire Department.  

So please spend some time today to get ready in order to be prepared for any possible impacts.

Thank you and stay safe,

Crawford