Storm Updates

Tropical Storm Idalia

August 30, 2023 at 8:20 pm

As of 8:00 tonight, Wednesday, August 30, 2023, Tropical Storm Idalia was about 60 miles west of Charleston, South Carolina.

• The storm was moving northeast at 21 miles per hour with maximum sustained tropical storm winds of 65 miles per hour.

Hilton Head Island remains under Tropical and Storm Surge warnings, as well as a Tornado Watch.

The National Weather Service defines our current watches and warnings as follows:

• A Tropical Storm Warning means "sustained winds of 34 to 63 kt (39 to 73 mph) or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. These winds may be accompanied by storm surge, coastal flooding, and/or river flooding."
• A Storm Surge Warning means there is "the danger of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the shoreline somewhere within the specified area, generally within 36 hours, in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone."
• A Tornado Watch means "severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. It does not mean that they will occur. It only means they are possible."

Tonight, Wednesday, into tomorrow, Thursday, morning, potential storm impacts may include winds 39-73 miles per hour, 6-8 inches of rain and 2-4 feet of storm surge.

• Hilton Head Island may experience flooding, especially in low-lying areas prone to flooding.
• Winds and water still have the potential to cause downed trees and power lines. This may lead to power outages.
• Power outages can be reported to Palmetto Electric Cooperative by calling 1-866-445-5551. Outages can also be reported through MyEnergy Online and the MyEnergy mobile app.

We offer these recommendations, as the safety of Hilton Head Island residents and visitors is our number one priority:

• Please stay indoors and off the roads, especially bridges, when tropical storm force winds and rain are present.
• In addition, and due to the potential for storm surge and rip currents, stay out of the water.
• Stay prepared for potential impacts of this storm, and be prepared for future storms and emergencies.

For more information on emergency preparedness, please visit our Hurricane Center or access resources from the SC Emergency Management Division at https://hurricane.sc

The Town of Hilton Head Island will continue to provide you with updates throughout this storm event.

To follow developments with Tropical Storm Idalia, visit the National Hurricane Center's website at www.nhc.noaa.gov.

Mayor Alan Perry, members of Town Council, Town Manager Marc Orlando and the men and women of the Town of Hilton Head Island thank you for your cooperation during Tropical Storm Idalia.

We are certainly fortunate to serve such a caring community.

Please stay safe.

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