Good afternoon Island residents,

Having just completed the daily hurricane planning meeting with the National Weather Service, state, county and municipal partners, I wanted to bring you the latest information regarding Category 2 Hurricane Ian and its impact later this week for Sullivan’s Island. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS MESSAGE HAS A MORE CONCERNING TONE THAT THE EARLIER MESSAGES.  IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU MONITOR THE STORM AND CONSIDER YOUR EMERGENCY PLAN.

Current Location and Storm Particulars (Click here to view National Hurricane Center Advisory 18)

• Currently located at 23.5N/83.3W or about 265 miles SSW of Sarasota FL
• Maximum sustained winds at 120 mph with present movement to the north at 10 degrees and 11 mph
• Maximum central pressure is at 955 MB
• South Carolina is currently under a tropical storm watch and storm surge warning

What to expect over the next several days for Sullivan’s Island

• Hurricane Ian is expected to intensify over the warm water of the Gulf of Mexico reaching a major Category 4 hurricane as it comes ashore somewhere in southwest Florida.
• The exact location of landfall is not entirely accurate but there is high confidence for the Tampa/Sarasota area.
• Exact landfall in Florida will determine if/where/when the storm tracks north.  It is not out of the realm of possibility that the storm could reemerge into the Atlantic Ocean and return to landfall in the Brunswick GA area.  You should continue to monitor the local media outlets for the latest tracking information.
• Greatest concerns for Sullivan’s Island at this time that are expected late Thursday to early Saturday: 2 to 4 feet of storm surge; 6 to 8 inches of rainfall; and, tropical force wind between 40 and 70 mph. Speaking specifically, this means ocean/creek water could breach the dune line and/or overcome lower roads such as Osceola, Raven and east Marshall. In terms of rainfall, flooding will likely occur in the areas of Stations 18/18.5/26/26.5/27 on Atlantic and Bayonne Avenues; Ion between Stations 22 and 23; Atlantic at Station 28.5; and Marshall Boulevard between Stations 28.5 and 29.
• Northeast wind will keep the tide higher than normal meaning slower stormwater drainage.
• Possibility of downed trees and/or limbs.
• Tornado activity is expected to be minimal.
• At this time there are no plans to initiate a curfew or limit access to the Island.  However, remember to have proof of your residency in the event you leave the area.
• Review storm travel protocols here. 

Helpful and important information

• Town first responders will be available and standing by at the ready throughout the duration of the event.
• For emergency assistance always dial 9-1-1. For non-emergency assistance from Police, Fire or Water and Sewer contact Charleston County Consolidated Dispatch at 843-743-7200.
• Report a power outage to Dominion Energy at 1-888-333-4465. Never approach a downed power line as it or the ground around it could be energized.
• At this time the Town will remain on normal operating hours (OPCON 3) but will continue to monitor the storm. 
• Wind, currents and swells are expected to increase locally by Thursday. Use care while surfing; check the dock lines and bilge pump on your boat; and, secure plants or lawn furniture that could become projectiles.   
• Details such as school closures, shelter information  and the like will follow as available.
• If your home is prone to flooding, move items off of the floor space
• Continue to review your emergency plan. If you have not already done so consider stocking up on drinking water, non-refrigerated foods and batteries. Check on elderly residents throughout the event.

At this writing Republic Disposal has not completed household garbage collection on Sullivan’s Island.  The household collection will be completed Wednesday along with yard debris collection.

Should you have any questions please respond directly to this message.

Reverting with further details as available.

Regards,

Andy Benke

Town Administrator

Town of Sullivan's Island