Hurricane insights: When South Carolina faces storms

Hurricane articles reveal the impact of these storms in South Carolina and emphasize the importance of preparation. Each piece underscores the tendency for hurricanes to peak in late summer and early fall, specifically between August and October. The historical data, patterns, and strategies for readiness are particularly relevant given the high likelihood of severe weather events looming in this period.

Find out when hurricanes are most likely to hit South Carolina, citing how storms like Hurricane Dorian in 2019 and Hurricane Florence in 2018 struck during September, the historical peak. Calm stretches do not indicate future calm, as these months still bring most tropical activities. In another, the role of tropical storm categories is examined, explaining that even Category 1 hurricanes like Florence have led to significant damage due to rainfall and duration, despite being considered 'weaker' by the Saffir-Simpson scale. The vulnerability of specific counties is highlighted, with Charleston, Horry, and Beaufort counties identified among the most at-risk in the nation. These areas could face substantial financial losses and threats from storm surges during hurricane events. Finally, preparation tips include building an emergency kit well in advance. Essential items range from water and nonperishable food to batteries and first aid supplies, ensuring readiness for at least three to seven days of impact.

NO. 1: HURRICANE SEASON IN MYRTLE BEACH: LOOK BEYOND THE ‘CATEGORY’ WHEN PREPARING

While the Grand Strand was spared from seeing any major hurricanes last year, smaller and even distant tropical cyclones still brought significant damage. | Published June 11, 2021 | Read Full Story by Chase Karacostas

NO. 2: BEFORE A HURRICANE: PREPARE NOW BY MAKING AN EMERGENCY KIT. HERE’S WHAT TO INCLUDE.

NOAA is predicting a busier than normal hurricane season — and the best time to prepare for a storm is right now. | Published June 5, 2022 | Read Full Story by Korie Dean

Ocean Boulevard in North Myrtle Beach was flooded most of the day on Thursday. As Hurricane Dorian approached North Myrtle Beach on Thursday reported tornados damaged buildings and a lashing rain brought flash flooding to area roads. Thursday Sept. 05, 2019.

NO. 3: WHEN ARE HURRICANES MOST LIKELY TO HIT SC? HERE’S WHEN HISTORY TELLS US TO EXPECT THE WORST

Forecasters say the calm start to the tropical weather season might not stick around for long. | Published August 8, 2022 | Read Full Story by Chase Karacostas

NO. 4: SC HAS 5 OF THE MOST VULNERABLE COUNTIES TO HURRICANES IN THE US, NEW RANKING SHOWS. HERE’S WHERE

Have you prepared for a hurricane this year? You might be in one of the nation’s most vulnerable counties. | Published July 29, 2023 | Read Full Story by Sarah Claire McDonald

Hugo’s storm surge swept this Surfside Beach home from its oceanfront lot into the middle of the Ocean Boulevard. The random cruelty of Hurricane Hugo was evident as some oceanfront homes were flattened while neighboring house were left intact. By Bill Scroggins

NO. 5: WHAT HURRICANE CATEGORIES MEAN IN SC AND SOME OF THE MAJOR STORMS TO HIT THE STATE

These are some of the major hurricanes that have hit South Carolina over the years and what hurricane categories mean. | Published June 18, 2025 | Read Full Story by Lyn Riddle

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.