Hurricane season arrives every year, but the impact does not have to catch you off guard. If you own a home in Myrtle Beach, you know the real risk comes from storm surge, flooding, and wind. With a focused plan, you can protect your property, keep your family safe, and simplify recovery if a storm strikes. This checklist gives you clear, local steps and trusted resources tailored to Horry County. Let’s dive in.
Know your risk and alerts
Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, with peak activity from mid August to mid October. See the official dates and outlook from the Climate Prediction Center in the NOAA hurricane season outlook.
Start by finding your Horry County evacuation zone. Use the county’s interactive maps and guidance at Know Your Zone. Zones are based on storm surge risk. If you live near the beach, Intracoastal Waterway, or low‑lying areas, plan ahead and follow official orders quickly.
Sign up for emergency alerts. Register for CodeRED so you get official texts and calls when conditions change. You can enroll through the CodeRED registration page. Add county and utility numbers to your contacts, and keep a NOAA Weather Radio ready for watches and warnings.
Insurance and documentation
Flood damage from storm surge is not covered by most homeowners policies. You need a separate flood policy, and NFIP flood insurance typically has a 30‑day waiting period, so buy coverage well before storms form. Review the SC Department of Insurance flood insurance FAQ for details.
Confirm wind coverage and deductibles with your agent, especially if you are near the coast. Some policies have separate wind or hurricane deductibles. The state’s guidance on coastal coverage and mitigation credits is a good place to start: South Carolina coastal insurance resources.
Document what you own. Create a dated photo or video inventory of the inside and outside of your home. Store digital copies of your policy numbers, agent contacts, deed, and mortgage info in the cloud and in a waterproof folder. The state’s StormReady checklist covers key documents and claims contacts.
Harden your home
Quick wins that matter:
- Secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, planters, and toys so they do not become projectiles. Horry County lists this as a core step on its Before a Hurricane page.
- Clear gutters and any drains near your home. Trim dead or overhanging limbs that could fall in high winds.
- Reinforce weak spots like garage doors. If you have measured plywood, stage it where you can install it fast.
Stronger upgrades that reduce damage:
- Install storm shutters or impact-rated doors and windows when possible.
- Improve roof attachments during re-roofing and add sealed underlayment and better edge protection.
- Elevate utilities like HVAC and electrical panels if you face flood risk.
Look into grants and credits. The state’s mitigation grant program can help fund certain upgrades. Check the SC Safe Home program for eligibility and timing.
Build your emergency kit
Plan for at least several days without power or services. Horry County urges residents to be ready for up to two weeks if needed. Use the state’s StormReady checklist as a guide and tailor it to your household.
Essentials to have on hand:
- Water: at least 1 gallon per person per day.
- Nonperishable food and a manual can opener.
- NOAA weather radio, flashlights, extra batteries, portable chargers, and some cash.
- Medications, copies of prescriptions, eyeglasses, and any medical device power plan.
- Important documents in a waterproof container and backed up digitally.
Do not forget pets and special needs. Most public shelters do not accept pets, so arrange boarding, pet-friendly lodging inland, or a plan with friends or family. If someone in your household has medical needs, pre-register for any available special medical shelters.
Plan your evacuation
Follow official evacuation orders promptly. Evacuation zones and routes are designed around storm surge and traffic capacity. Review your zone and routes now at Know Your Zone.
If you need transportation, Coast RTA activates evacuation pickups and routes when ordered. See rules and what to bring at Coast RTA evacuation information. If you plan to use a public shelter, bring ID, medications, bedding, supplies, and your documents. Confirm shelter openings through county announcements as storms approach.
After the storm
Stay safe first. Avoid downed power lines and standing water. Use generators outside, away from windows, and follow the manufacturer’s directions to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Document damage before cleanup and save receipts for temporary repairs like tarps or boarding. Contact your agent to start a claim and follow their instructions. The state’s StormReady page includes claim tips and contacts.
If a major disaster is declared, you may qualify for federal assistance. Learn how programs work with insurance at FEMA disaster assistance and mitigation.
Myrtle Beach homeowner checklist
Before hurricane season:
- Find your evacuation zone and plan two routes. Review Know Your Zone.
- Confirm wind coverage and deductibles. Buy flood insurance early using the SC DOI flood FAQ.
- Create a home inventory and back up documents using the StormReady checklist.
- Address roof, gutter, and tree maintenance. Explore grants via SC Safe Home.
When a watch or warning is issued:
- Top off fuel, charge devices, and withdraw some cash.
- Secure outdoor items and move vehicles to higher ground. See county steps in Before a Hurricane.
- Pack your go bag with water, food, meds, documents, and pet supplies.
If told to evacuate:
- Leave as directed. Use Coast RTA evacuation information if you need transport.
- Know most public shelters do not accept pets. Arrange care in advance.
After the storm:
- Return only when officials say it is safe. Photograph damage, make temporary repairs, and call your insurer. Use StormReady and FEMA resources for help.
Prepared owners tend to recover faster and with less stress. If you want neighborhood-specific guidance on flood zones, property features that perform better in storms, or timing improvements before listing or buying, our local team is here to help. Reach out to the Taylor Keenan Team for trusted, concierge support along the Grand Strand.
FAQs
When is hurricane season in Myrtle Beach?
- The Atlantic season runs June 1 through November 30, with peak activity from mid August to mid October according to the NOAA seasonal outlook.
How do I find my Horry County evacuation zone?
- Use the county’s interactive map and guidance at Know Your Zone and follow official county and state announcements.
Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane flooding?
- No. Flooding and storm surge require a separate flood insurance policy, and NFIP policies usually have a 30‑day waiting period; see the SC DOI flood insurance FAQ.
What should I put in a go bag for Myrtle Beach?
- Pack water, nonperishable food, medications, copies of important documents, flashlights, batteries, chargers, cash, and pet supplies; the state’s StormReady checklist is a helpful guide.
What if I need transportation during an evacuation?
- Coast RTA provides evacuation pickups and transport when activated; review rules and pickup details at Coast RTA evacuation information.
