South Carolina — Governor Henry McMaster has designated September 2026 as Preparedness Month in South Carolina, encouraging residents to take practical steps now to ensure they are ready when emergencies occur. The statewide observance emphasizes household readiness, community resilience and the importance of planning ahead as the state enters the peak of hurricane season and continues to face a range of year‑round hazards.
South Carolina routinely experiences hurricanes, severe storms, flooding, tornadoes, winter weather and extreme heat, and recent events have underscored the value of having a plan, assembling an emergency kit and knowing how to receive critical information before, during and after a disaster.
“Emergencies can happen at any time, and South Carolina families know firsthand how quickly conditions can change,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “From hurricanes and flooding to severe winter weather, being prepared before a disaster strikes helps protect lives, reduces impacts and allows communities to recover more quickly. Preparedness Month is an opportunity for every South Carolinian to take simple steps to become better prepared.”
SCEMD Director Kim Stenson encouraged residents to use the month as a reminder to review emergency plans and ensure their households are ready for potential hazards.
“Preparedness does not have to be complicated or expensive,” Stenson said. “Small actions, such as creating a plan, putting together an emergency kit and knowing your hurricane evacuation zone, can make a significant difference when an emergency occurs. Taking a few minutes now to prepare can help you and your loved ones respond with confidence when it matters most.”
Throughout September, SCEMD will highlight key preparedness topics, including:
- Creating an emergency plan
- Building an emergency supply kit
- Preparing homes and families
- Staying informed through alerts
- Preparing for your pets
State officials note that taking steps before a disaster occurs helps reduce risks, strengthens community response and supports faster recovery.
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