As the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins, South Carolina officials are intensifying emergency preparedness efforts across the state.
Gov. Henry McMaster was joined by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, county emergency managers and multiple state agencies last week at the annual Governor’s Hurricane Tabletop Exercise. The exercise is designed to test and practice the state’s hurricane emergency operation plans ahead of potential severe weather threats.
The annual training comes as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is urging residents, businesses and local governments throughout the Southeast to prepare for hurricanes, flooding and other severe weather events that commonly impact the region during the summer and fall months.
State and federal officials emphasized that advance planning can help protect lives, property, infrastructure and the environment before storms make landfall. Emergency preparedness efforts include securing homes and businesses, reviewing evacuation and response plans, and safeguarding hazardous materials that could pose environmental risks during flooding or storm damage.
The EPA also reminded facility operators of their responsibility to prevent, minimize and report chemical releases that may occur during hurricanes and other severe weather events.
Preparedness resources provided by the agency include guidance on protecting drinking water and wastewater systems, safely managing storm debris, preventing chemical spills and protecting emergency responders and communities from environmental hazards.
Officials noted that hurricanes can often be tracked several days before landfall, providing communities and businesses time to implement emergency procedures and protective measures.
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