HURRICANE SEASON 2020
Preparing Before a Storm
Hurricane season begins June 1 and already the
Atlantic has seen its first two storms. Arthur
developed on May 16, almost two weeks before the
season’s official start, and tropical storm Bertha
made landfall in the Charleston area on May 27
after forming the same day. It’s a good reminder that
an above-normal 2020 Atlantic hurricane season
is expected, according to forecasters with NOAA’s
Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National
Weather Service.
The beginning of the season is a time to review
hurricane preparedness plans, both for members
and the association. KICA has standard operating
procedures for preparing the island for a storm,
maintaining security through a storm and storm
clean-up. The Town of Kiawah Island takes the
lead in an emergency (view the opposite page for
information on signing up for communications)
and KICA will share the town’s updates through its
communication channels.
During the season, Kiawah entities monitor each
storm that appears. Based on guidance from the
SC Emergency Management Division (SCEMD),
an emergency operations protocol may be put in
place if a storm has the potential for impacts. Once
that protocol is in place, island entities join a daily
call with SCEMD and other area municipalities. All
island entities work together during a storm event.
Prior to the storm’s approach, island access may
be limited. Based on the storm’s likely timetable
and strength, the island could be closed to entry.
At that point, sheriff’s deputies will stop and turn
back anyone attempting to access the island. KICA’s
Security team, usually the last employees on the
island, may leave if it is not safe to remain.
After a storm has passed and the governor has lifted
the evacuation order, the mayor must give an order
allowing property owners to return. The town and
KICA will conduct a damage assessment of the
island and, if it is deemed safe to return, will set a
timeline for members. The town and KICA will send
out this information, along with a general damage
assessment. Following the storm, KICA’s security
staff will return to the island. Island clean-up begins
prior to members returning to ensure passable
roads and a safe environment. KICA’s emergency
response crews will be on the island, assisting the
land management department with debris.
The Lowcountry community has seen a number
of storm events over the last few years. Just last
September, the island narrowly escaped a direct hit
from Hurricane Dorian, as it skirted the coastline.
The greatest frequency of storms tends to occur
from August 15 to October 15 in our area. Now is the
time to get prepared in advance. View some tips on
the opposite page to help you and your family get
ready for the season.
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