Prepare now for active hurricane season in SC. How to pack emergency kit

• South Carolina is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes due to its geography, which can cause storms to linger and flood inland areas.
• Forecasters predict a near-average 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, but note that storm tracks, not totals, determine the state's risk.
• Residents are advised to prepare for both coastal and inland impacts before the hurricane season begins on June 1.
• Experts recommend preparing a "go-bag" with essentials and a separate, larger kit for sheltering in place.

South Carolina sits in a spot where hurricanes don’t just hit — they linger, turn and flood inland communities.

Ahead of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, forecasters say the state remains one of the more vulnerable areas along the East Coast, regardless of how many storms ultimately form.

A developing El Niño may keep overall storm totals near average. But totals don’t drive risk in South Carolina — track, timing and rainfall do.

Storms that come ashore along the Southeast coast often slow down over land or curve north, pushing prolonged rain into central and western parts of the state. That setup increases the risk of river flooding well away from the coast.

Forecasters have also flagged the Carolinas as a zone to watch for direct impacts this year, meaning both coastal and inland communities should be ready before the season begins.

An official outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is expected later this spring.

When is hurricane season?

Hurricane season begins on June 1, but the AccuWeather forecast warns that conditions could increase the chance of preseason or early-season tropical cyclone development near the U.S. in May or June.

AccuWeather predicts:

• 11 to 16 named storms
• 4 to 7 hurricanes
• 2 to 4 major hurricanes

That compares to historical averages of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.

Forecasters also expect three to five direct impacts in the United States.

Why South Carolina is especially vulnerable

Coastal areas are prone to storm surge and overwash, while the mountain regions are more likely to deal with flooding from slow-moving systems.

Heavy rain doesn’t need a major hurricane to cause problems in the state. Tropical storms or weaker systems can still drop several inches of rain in a short time, overwhelming rivers creeks and drainage systems.

Will you be ready if a hurricane or other danger threatens your home and family? Here are some tips to help you prepare your 'go-bag' if disaster strikes and you're forced to flee.

Gathering your go-bag supplies

A go-bag is usually a small, lightweight backpack you can grab in a moment's notice on your way out the door. It should include personal items, toiletries, food, and water.

This is how you set up your kit:

What type of go bag for hurricane season?

Pick something small, portable, and lightweight. A lightweight suitcase with wheels might work as well, but remember, you could be running while carrying this bag!

Hurricane season items for cleanliness and lung protection:

Basic electronics

Use your electronics only when necessary. Keep your phone handy in case you need to report a life-threatening emergency. Try to avoid phone use to keep lines available for emergency responders.

Go-bag clothes

Layer clothes that can be easily added or removed, depending on temperature. It's best to be prepared for all types of weather. Include toiletry items, backup eyeglasses, bug spray, matches, a pocket knife or multipurpose tool, and a first-aid kit including any prescription drugs.

Have emergency cash and change on hand in case of a widespread power outage in which credit cards won't work. And don't forget keys to your house and vehicles.

Water and food

Bottled water is a must. You should have at least a day's worth of food and water, enough for each person. Nonperishable foods, such as granola or energy bars, are good since they are small and compact.

Copies of important paperwork

Keep photocopies of important household paperwork such as proof of address, driver's license, insurance, adoption papers, or naturalization certificates. Include copies of your Social Security cards, medical records, and credit card information. They should be stored in a waterproof bag.

Be sure to check out the Red Cross Emergency Library for safety checklists and more information.

Sheltering-in-place supplies

If sheltering in place, your emergency kit should include supplies that will last up to two weeks. Dried and canned food, water, prescription medications, a first-aid kit, household cleaning and disinfectant supplies, and personal hygiene items should be on hand. Supplies can be kept in a large plastic container and stored in a designated place for easy access.

Pick a safe place with few windows and doors to shelter in. Stay inside your shelter location until officials say the danger has passed.

If you have a portable generator for power outages, never run it inside your house or connected garage. Always keep it outside. Carbon monoxide – a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas – is dangerous and kills more than 150 people a year.

Should you have one emergency kit or multiple?

Plan for both.

A single, well-stocked household kit covers the basics if everyone is sheltering in place. But hurricanes don’t always unfold that cleanly. Evacuations, school schedules and work commutes can separate families quickly.

Having a smaller, grab-and-go kit for each person adds a layer of protection. It ensures everyone has essentials — medications, identification, chargers and a few supplies — even if they’re not at home when conditions change.

In North Carolina, where storms can shift inland and disrupt travel across regions, that flexibility matters. One shared kit handles the big needs. Individual kits make sure no one is left without the basics if plans change fast.

Making disaster plans for your pet, too

Pets should never be left behind during an emergency. They are likely to get lost, injured, or worse. Creating a pet emergency kit ahead of time will help.

Have a pet carrier for each pet, with your pet's name and contact information printed on the carrier. Have at least two weeks' worth of food and water, litter for cats, and poop bags for dogs.

Make sure to have copies of pets' medical records, which include vaccination status for rabies and other diseases. It's a good idea to practice an evacuation including your pets so everyone knows what to do.

Precautions when traveling during an evacuation

If circumstances require you to leave your home, try to keep calm. Unplug major electrical equipment such as televisions and small appliances. Do not unplug your refrigerator or freezer unless there is a flood risk. And don't forget to secure your home by locking all the doors and windows.

Pack go-bags for each family member in advance and don't forget your pets. Stay alert and don't drive aggressively. Follow all traffic signs and resist the urge to speed – a car accident will only delay your evacuation. 

Helping children cope in an emergency situation

According to Amy Rolph, in consultation with FEMA, start by talking with your kids about the type of disaster that is likely to happen in your area and why it’s important to have a plan for staying safe. Answer their questions honestly, but keep details age-appropriate. 

Younger kids might have questions about what causes natural disasters, and you can research the answers together. FEMA’s Ready.gov/kids website can help you navigate this conversation and find kid-appropriate information about what type of natural disasters you should prepare for based on where you live. 

Staying safe in a public shelter

If a disaster does require you to evacuate your home, identify places you could go to in an emergency, such as a friend’s house in another town, a motel, or a public shelter. 

If you decide on a public shelter, find out if it's open and has space available. Be sure to check if they accept pets, as needed. 

At a shelter, maintain at least 6 feet of space between you and those who aren’t in your immediate family. Avoid touching surfaces such as handrails as much as possible. Remember to wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizers after touching surfaces. Try to keep your living space clean. 

Learn more by visiting: http://www.disasterassistance.gov/.