News Release

Town of Hilton Head Island Preparing for Tropical Storm Debby

August 4, 2024

The Town of Hilton Head Island is preparing for Tropical Storm Debby's potential weather impacts and reminding the public that now is the time to prepare.

"I want to emphasize the safety and well-being of the community as our top priority. Everyone should take the time to make personal preparations regarding yourself, your family and your home. Our Town is ready to respond to the storm and began as soon as last week making plans to deal with potential flooding and heavy rain. I have confidence in our town's ability to face and overcome the challenges posed by this tropical storm," said Mayor Alan Perry.

According to the National Weather Service, Tropical Storm Debby will likely move very slowly near/over the area this week. There is still a lot of uncertainty in the track and intensity of the storm when it reaches South Carolina and Georgia. Historical rainfall amounts are likely, with widespread, severe to catastrophic flooding/flash flooding likely. Heavy rainfall and potential storm surges could create catastrophic/destructive flooding in/around the tidal zones.

Significant Rainfall
There is a high risk of significant rainfall between 10 to 20 inches. This rain is expected to begin Monday night, August 5, and continue into Thursday, August 8, 2024.

Flooded Roadways
Flash flooding could impact roads and property. Never drive or walk through flooded roadways or areas as the condition of the road underneath water will be unknown.  Residents are strongly urged to stay off the roads during the storm, but if you approach a flooded area, please turn around.

Town Preparations
Due to the expected storm impacts, the latest preparations and operational updates in Hilton Head Island are below. For updated changes in operations as the storm progresses, we encourage residents to visit the Town's website.

Town staff have worked throughout the weekend with a focus on:

1. Inspecting and clearing storm drains to minimize flooding.
2. Monitoring all Town beach and community park facilities to secure equipment and prepare them for closures.
3. Monitoring construction sites to ensure sites and materials are secure, and drainage facilities are in working order.
4. Removing trash from waste receptacles on beaches, in parks and along pathways.
5. Monitoring pathways and roadways for low-hanging limbs.
6. Reaching out to communities to ensure they are prepared and taking steps to minimize flooding and draining issues.

Reporting Non-emergency Issues
Please use our citizen reporting app, SeeClickFix, also known as MyHHI, to report all non-emergency matters, blocked roadways, drainage, damage, and other items to the Town. This app allows you to upload photos with each service request, providing a visual reference to help our staff address the needs more effectively.

Sandbags
The Town of Hilton Head Island does not furnish sandbags, and taking sand from the beach is prohibited.

Shelters
In the event of potential evacuations, we will coordinate with the Lowcountry Regional Transit Authority (LRTA) to provide public transportation options to evacuation shelters, should they become available.

Utilities
Any electrical outages may be reported to Palmetto Electric via their app or by calling 1-866-445-5551. Do not report outages on social media; follow the utility’s social media platforms for updates.

Your Personal Plans
Residents are advised to develop and review their emergency plans and ensure their emergency supply kit of essential items such as water, food, medications and important documents is prepared and packed if needed. The Town’s latest emergency guides in English and Spanish include a list of emergency kit items and can be found at https://hiltonheadislandsc.gov/ready/guide.cfm.

Storm Updates
Please follow official sources of information for the latest updates, including the Town of Hilton Head Island at hiltonheadislandsc.gov, local news media, the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center. Follow us on Facebook and sign up for the Town’s e-subscription service to receive real-time updates about the storm. Your safety is our priority.