Tropical Storm Debby sprinted out of gate to begin Bluffton’s hurricane season in early August, reminding us Mother Nature is in control. Each storm is unique and presents different obstacles to negotiate.
For perspective, Tropical Storm Debby dumped more rain in our area in its first 24 hours than Hurricane Matthew or Irma. Debby was a rain event, without the severe winds.
A cluster of neighborhoods off Buckwalter Parkway flooded as all their private drainage infrastructures tried to keep pace with the storm.
Planned neighborhoods have private drainage systems that are under the jurisdiction of their Property Owners Association (POA). The town is willing to assist POAs and its engineering contractor to review these systems and recommend enhancements to the existing systems after the storm subsides.
Town leaders and staff are concerned about every resident. However, the town does not have the authority to fix private infrastructure. Town team members are available to provide recommendations, assessments, and so forth.
Tropical Storm Debby was the ninth major storm since 2016. This area had enjoyed a nearly 60-year reprieve before Tropical Storm Bonnie and Hurricane Matthew affected Bluffton in 2016. Since then, Bluffton prepared for Tropical Storm Irma, Hurricane Florence, Hurricane Dorian, Tropical Storm Elsa, Hurricane Ian, and Tropical Storm Idalia last year.
Let Debby be a reminder to be prepared and take each storm seriously. Public officials are making decisions with safety as the first priority.
The town has prepared answers to frequently asked questions about hurricanes on its website. Visit townofbluffton.sc.gov/656/Hurricane-Season for detailed information.
Stormwater Management:
• Ensure that ditches, pipes, and storm drains are clear of blockages to prevent flooding.
• Town staff regularly inspect and clean town-maintained ditches, but private property owners must maintain their own.
Reliable Information Sources:
• During a hurricane, rely on local and county government channels for accurate information. Social media can be useful but verify the sources to avoid misinformation.
• The Town of Bluffton, Bluffton Police Department, and Beaufort County Emergency Management are key reliable sources.
Personal and Property Preparations:
• Follow the 5 P’s for personal readiness: People (and Pets), Prescriptions, Papers (important documents), Personal needs, and Priceless items.
• Create a paper record of contact information in case cell phone service is disrupted.
• Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles during high winds.
• Take photos or videos of your property for insurance purposes before and after the storm.
Insurance and Legal Considerations:
• Review and understand your insurance policies. Most standard homeowners’ policies do not cover flood damage.
• Consider obtaining flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (floodsmart.gov).
Be aware flood insurance usually has a 30-day waiting period before activation.
Pets and Animal Safety:
• Prepare a pet emergency kit with enough food, water, and medications for at least a week.
• Ensure pets have updated ID tags and microchip information. Keep current photos of your pets.
• Monitor pets closely to prevent exposure to storm debris or contaminated water.
Developer and Contractor Responsibilities:
• Ensure active construction sites are secured, with materials and debris properly managed.
• Maintain temporary fences and erosion control devices to prevent flooding and debris flow.
Be Prepared to Evacuate Early:
• Plan to leave prior to an official evacuation order to avoid traffic and ensure a safe route.
• Remember that emergency services might be suspended during extreme weather, and hospitals will close.
Stay Informed and Patient:
• The Governor is the only state official who authorizes evacuations.
• In Beaufort County, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Department of Emergency Management is the lead agency; the Town of Bluffton coordinates with that office.
For more detailed information and resources, refer to the South Carolina Emergency Management Division Hurricane Guide and the Town of Bluffton’s official website.
