Charleston County Emergency Management

09/09/2026

Do you know your zone?
During hurricanes and other emergencies, evacuation decisions are made based on zones. Knowing yours ahead of time can save valuable time when every second counts.

✅Find your zone here: https://www.scemd.org/prepare/know-your-zone/...
✅Share it with your family & neighbors
✅ Make a plan before you need it

Being prepared starts with knowing where you stand.
Know Your Zone, Charleston County!

09/07/2026

This Labor Day, we honor the hard work and dedication of those who keep our communities running especially the first responders and public safety professionals who are always ready when it matters most.

While many enjoy a well deserved day of rest, our teams remain on duty, answering the call and serving others.

Thank you to everyone who works tirelessly to keep our community safe.

09/04/2026

James Island, we are out at the Town Market tonight talking about our favorite topic, preparedness!

Come on out, get your Hurricane Guide, listen to live music, and get your weekend started.

09/04/2026

🌊 Storm Surge Awareness 🌊

Storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property during a hurricane or tropical storm. It is a rapid rise of water pushed inland by strong winds and it can flood homes roads and entire communities in minutes.

Here is how to stay safe
✅ Know your evacuation zone
✅ Follow legitimate sources of information for evacuation orders
✅ Never drive through flooded roads
✅ Have a plan and get going early if instructed by officials to evacuate

Preparedness saves lives. Stay informed. Stay ready.

09/03/2026

Does your community organization have Charleston County Hurricane Guides to give to staff and customers? Help your surrounding community prepare for emergencies today by requesting your free guides!

This request form for hurricane guides is open for businesses, civic associations, non-profit organizations, houses of worship, schools, and more!

To request guides for your group, simply visit our website at CharlestonCounty.gov/em, click the 'Guides Request' tab, and fill out the form.

09/02/2026

Please keep an eye out for Mr. Thompson.

🚨PLEASE SHARE, MISSING PERSON 🚨
Lawrence Thompson, 72, was last seen at his residence in the 8100 block of North Highway 17 in Awendaw around 10 a.m. on 9/1/26. It is unknown what he was wearing the last time he was seen, though he is known to go by “babe” and is usually wearing a baseball cap.

If anyone has information on him or his whereabouts, they are asked to contact the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office at 843-202-1700. If contact is made with the person after hours, please notify Consolidated Dispatch at 843-743-7200 or dial 911.

09/01/2026

September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder that being prepared today can make all the difference tomorrow. Emergencies can happen at any time, and taking a few simple steps now can help protect you, your family, and your community.

✅Build an emergency kit
✅Sign up for CHSAlerts: https://bit.ly/CHSAlerts
✅Make a family communication plan
✅Know your local hazards
✅Stay informed with trusted alerts and updates

Preparedness is a shared responsibility. When each of us is ready, our whole community is stronger.

08/31/2026

While we are in the middle of hurricane season, earthquake season is all year - and earthquakes are no stranger to Charleston County.

It's very important to know your risks, and to prepare for those risks. Learn more here: Earthquake.sc

140 years ago, South Carolina experienced the largest earthquake ever recorded along the U.S. East Coast. The 1886 Charleston Earthquake was felt as far away as Chicago and Cuba, with its epicenter near Summerville.

Learn more about this historic event and its lasting impact by taking the Charleston Earthquake of 1886 virtual tour: https://earthquake.sc/history

Photos courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

08/28/2026

As Emergency Management Awareness Month comes to an end, let's introduce another new team member, Valerie Desio!

🔹What inspired you to become an emergency manager?
"My path to emergency management was inspired by my experiences with Team Rubicon and seeing firsthand how much a difference it makes wen people show up for their communities after a disaster. I've always found purpose in helping people, and disaster response gave me an opportunity to turn that into action, meeting people where they are, addressing unmet needs, and helping communities take the next steps toward recover. That experience also showed me that emergency management isn't just about responding to when something goes wrong; it's about building relationships, preparing before disaster strikes, and making sure communities are ready to recover when they need it most. At the heart of it, I'm an EM because I want to help people, and I'm proud to be a part of a profession that does just that."

🔹What is one part of your job that people often don't realize or understand?
"Emergency management isn't a 9-5 job, because disasters don't only occur in 'normal work hours.' We are not a response agency either; we coordinate the people, resources, information, and plans that help a community respond effectively. Much of our work happens before the disaster even hits, building partnerships and preparing for the unexpected so that when it does happen, everyone is better positioned to respond."

🔹Is there a moment that stands out to you in this role?
"One thing that has stayed with me is the resilience of communities after a disaster. I've seen people come together in so many ways, clearing roads, picking up debris, donating time and supplies, organizing meal trains, and simply showing up. After one tornado, I watched families sweep off the foundation where their home once stood, surrounded by neighbors who came to help. At a local church, the community carefully stacked bricks from a collapsed wall so they could be used to rebuild. Those moments remind me that while disasters can take a lot from us, they also show us just how strong and compassionate people can be when they come together."

🔹Favorite activation snack?
"Monster energy drinks for the long days ahead and Rice Krispie Treats - a true Team Rubicon staple. Basically activation fuel!

08/28/2026

Keep an eye out for potential flooding this afternoon and evening, and please do not drive or wade through flood water.

Make sure you have multiple ways to get weather alerts to stay informed!

Scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms are again expected this afternoon, with localized flash flooding possible across the region. Greatest risk for flash flooding will likely concentrate in an area between Savannah to Springfield to Ridgeland, as outlined in red in the graphic. Have multiple ways to receive warnings, and do not drive through flooded waters!