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Sunday, September 1, 2019
This page will be updated regularly as information becomes available.
Hurricane approaching eastern coast of United States
If you have questions about Hurricane Dorian or need assistance, please visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division at www.scemd.org.
With Hurricane Dorian approaching the South Carolina coast, DHEC is actively working to prepare for the storm. This website will be updated throughout the storm. For tips, please visit our hurricane preparedness page.
Health Care Facilities
On Sept. 1, 2019, the Governor issued a Mandatory Medical Evacuation Order for health care facilities regulated by DHEC in the evacuation zone.
Prior to the order, the agency sent a communication to all licensed health care facilities asking that they review all emergency operations and evacuation plans, including ensuring that all staff are fully briefed. Facilities were also urged to verify contracts for supplies and transportation should those needs arise. Health Regulations has established a phone bank to allow staff to assist all health care facilities subject to an evacuation order.
Special Medical Needs Shelters
During times of emergency, DHEC operates Special Medical Needs Shelters to provide shelter for people whose medical conditions exceed the capabilities of the Red Cross shelters, but are not severe enough to require a hospital stay. We do not provide health care services in those shelters.
Dams
On Sept. 1, 2019, DHEC sent out communications alerting dam owners and operators of reservoirs statewide should check their dams and take appropriate steps to evaluate if they should begin safely lowering the water levels today and through the next several days in preparation for potential problems caused by heavy rainfall from Hurricane Dorian. Based on the current projected path of the storm, the department highly encouraged all coastal and near coastal counties to consider lowering their water levels starting on Sept. 1, 2019.
DHEC has begun contacting dam owners and, when appropriate, will implement the CodeRED system to automatically notify dam owners via voice call, text messages and email to take steps in preparation for the potential significant rainfall, including safely lowering water levels.
If you have a concern about a dam that may have been impacted by the storm, please call DHEC at (803) 898-1939.
Coastal Resources and Sandbags
DHEC has issued blanket emergency orders to local governments to allow property owners along the immediate beachfront to conduct sand scraping or install sandbags to provide temporary protection from anticipated wave uprush from the storm. More information, as well as copies of the orders can be found here.
DHEC has asked local governments along the coast to provide updates on beachfront erosion and damage through our MYCoast application.
News Releases
DHEC Office Closures
DHEC follows the closings and delays of county offices. For example, if Beaufort County offices are closed, our health clinics and offices in the county will be closed as well. The latest information on delays and closures can be found at https://www.scemd.org or on local media.
Stay Connected
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