Experts: Hanna could strike as at least minimal hurricane by Friday
Updated 01:31 p.m., September 3, 2008
The Post and Courier
A very-well-prepared David Moorer puts pre-measured and pre-drilled sheets of wood panels over studs he'd installed on the windows of his home off Fort Johnson Road on James Island on Tuesday. With Tropical Storm Hanna bearing down on the South Carolina coast, and the likelihood of it turning into a hurricane, Moorer joined many in the Lowcountry in preparing for the worst.
The Post and Courier
Nerves began to show Tuesday as the Lowcountry braced for a possible hurricane and emergency operations started up across the three-county area.
Tropical Storm Hanna continued to meander southeast of the Bahamas. No one could say yet where this storm will head, although hurricane specialists continue to call for landfall on the Southeast coast as early as Friday, as at least a minimal hurricane with 80 mph winds.
Forecast tracks late Tuesday put the bull's-eye on the South Carolina coast between Savannah and Charleston. As the storm began turning a slow circle about 450 miles below Nassau, Bahamas, its possible path ranged from making landfall in Florida to staying out to sea past the Outer Banks in North Carolina.
"Savannah seems to be the hot spot right now," said meteorologist Dan Kottlowski, with AccuWeather.com, a private forecasting company. "The farther southwest it goes, the more likely it will head up into the Florida peninsula."
As people began to crowd stores for hurricane supplies, Charleston County Emergency Preparedness stepped up its alert level, bringing key staff to the Leeds Avenue center and readying for 24-hour operations today.
There's a potential that voluntary evacuations could begin then, said Cathy Haynes, director.
If the storm heads this way Friday, that won't leave a lot of time to move a lot of people.
"It's very difficult," Haynes said. "That's why we're taking steps right now. Hopefully (the preparations) will keep us from behind the eight ball."
Schools in the three counties warned parents to be ready for weather closings and were waiting for recommendations from the Charleston County Emergency Operations Center before making announcements today.
Charleston County schools planned to follow regular schedules today but canceled all after-school activities, programs and sports. Officials expect to announce at 1 p.m. today whether schools will close Thursday and Friday.
Charleston Air Force Base was placed on alert and personnel began preparing for the storm. North Charleston, among other governments, opened its emergency operations center.
Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island officials have begun handing out hurricane stickers to allow evacuating residents to return to the island after a storm. Folly Beach town officials said residents should bring along a photo ID and proof of residence to get back on the island.
On the beach Tuesday no one was in a hurry to give up the sun or the big, storm-rolled waves. Michael Fishbach kept one eye on the weather and the other on the breakers coming in.
"I'll keep updated with it, so if it hits, we'll leave. If it doesn't, we'll surf," he said.
Alicia Carney of West Ashley entertained out-of-town visitors by taking them to the beach, but she expected to buy supplies later in the day.
"You don't want to be caught unprepared," Carney said. "We're hoping it won't hit hard, but we don't want a Katrina here in Charleston."
Residents began stocking up on hurricane supplies at Lowe's on James Island. Dan Elkin, store manager, said business began picking up Monday. "People are loading up on water," he said.
Out in the parking lot, West Ashley resident Lloyd Roberts loaded his pickup with weather protection sheets. "It's cheaper and quicker than plywood," he said.
In Charleston, a temporary emergency operations center was set up at City Hall, and city crews were making preparations that included filling sand bags that could be distributed if necessary, and renting a bucket truck so that the windows on City Hall could be covered today if Hanna was still tracking toward the city.
Mayor Joe Riley urged city residents to get prepared, and to consider leaving town today.
"(Today) would really be the day for people to move if they want to use their route of choice," Riley said. If an evacuation is ordered, options for travel could be limited by lane reversals on major routes out of town, including Interstate 26 and S.C. Highway 61. Traffic would be very heavy.
"If people wait until Thursday, even with the lane reversal, it would be a mess," Riley said. "One thing is certain. When this storm makes its move to the northwest it will move very rapidly." The city is encouraging residents to check on elderly neighbors, and make sure debris is not blocking storm drains.
"We all know that Ike and Josephine are right behind Hanna," Riley said. "This is a time when we all need to be prepared. This has the likelihood of being a severe hurricane. A Category 1 hurricane is a very dangerous event."
Mount Pleasant Town Administrator Mac Burdette said the staff met Tuesday to discuss storm preparations. Hurricane Hugo in 1989 was the last major storm to directly hit the town. At that time, the population was about 30,000. Today, more than 60,000 people call the town home.
"We've got a lot more people out there who haven't been through a hurricane," Burdette said.
Strong winds from Hurricane Gustav continued to cut through and weaken Hanna on Tuesday, but National Hurricane Center forecasters expect it regain hurricane strength today or Thursday.
With the storm likely to ride the coastline before making landfall, they warned that a slight veer of the storm could make a big difference in where it hits and how strong it will be.
As if that weren't bad enough, two tropical storms, Ike and Josephine, are making their way across the Atlantic behind Hanna.
Meanwhile, the National Weather Service in Charleston is warning of strong shore currents and rip currents along the beaches.
Emergency Shelters
The Emergency Preparedness Divisions of Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties provided this list of shelters. However, which shelters are open depends on the storm.
Before going to any shelter, call the Charleston County Citizens Information Line at 202-7100; or in Spanish, 202-7191, for updated information or listen to local media outlets.
Berkeley County
In a voluntary evacuation, these shelters may be opened:
Cainhoy Elementary/Middle
2434 Cainhoy Road; Huger
Goose Creek High
1137 Red Bank Road; Goose Cr.
Hanahan Middle
5815 Murray Drive; Hanahan
Berkeley High
406 W. Main St.; Moncks Crn.
St. Stephen Elementary
1053 Russellville Road; St. Stephen
In a mandatory evacuation, these additional shelters may be opened:
Cross Elementary
1325 Ranger Drive; Cross
Sangaree Elementary
1460 Royle Road; Sangaree/Ladson
Westview Primary
98 Westview Blvd.; Goose Cr.
Macedonia Middle
200 Macedonia Foxes Circle; Macedonia
Stratford High
951 Crowfield Blvd.; Goose Cr.
Charleston County
In a voluntary evacuation, these shelters may be opened:
Stall High School
7749 Pinehurst St.; North Charleston
Midland Park Elementary
2415 Midland Park Road; North Charleston
Morningside Middle
1999 Singley Lane; North Charleston
In a mandatory evacuation, these additional shelters may be opened:
Garrett Academy of Technology
2731 Gordon St.; North Charleston
A.C. Corcoran Elementary
8585 Vistavia Road; North Charleston
Pepperhill Elementary
3300 Creola Road; North Charleston
Brentwood Middle
2685 Leeds Ave.; North Charleston
Dorchester County
In a voluntary evacuation, the following shelters may be opened.
Harleyville-Ridgeville Elementary
1650 E. Main St.; Dorchester
Fort Dorchester High
8500 Patriot Blvd.; North Charleston
Summerville High
1101 Boone Hill Road; Summerville
In a mandatory evacuation, these additional shelters may be opened:
Woodland High
4128 U.S. Highway 78; Dorchester
Summerville Elementary
835 South Main St.; Summerville
Beech Hill Elementary
1001 Beech Hill Road; Summerville
Other shelters
Shelters that could be opened as needed:
Berkeley County
Devon Forest
1127 Dorothy St.; Goose Cr.
Westview Elementary
100 Westview Blvd.; Goose Cr.
Westview Middle
101 Westview Blvd.; Goose Cr.
Sedgefield Middle
131 Charles B. Gibson Blvd.; Goose Creek
Sedgefield Intermediate
225 Garwood Dr.; Goose Cr.
Berkeley Elementary
715 S.C. Highway 6; Moncks Cr.
Whitesville Elementary
324 Gaillard Road; Moncks Cr.
Charleston County
Lambs Elementary
6800 Dorchester Road; North Charleston
Ladson Elementary
3321 Ladson Road; Ladson
Matilda F. Dunston Elementary
1825 Remount Road; North Charleston
Orange Grove Elementary at the Ronald E. McNair Building
3795 Spruill Ave.; North Charleston
Special medical needs shelters
Anyone wishing to use these should call the Charleston County Citizens Information Line at 202-7100 first.
Berkeley Intermediate
777 Stoney Landing Road; Moncks Corner
Alice Birney Middle
7750 Pinehurst St.; North Charleston
Summerville sr. Center
312 North Laurel St.; Summerville
Shelters that could be opened after a storm:
Possible options
Berkeley County
Hanahan High
6015 Murray Drive; Hanahan
Berkeley Middle
320 North Live Oak Drive; Moncks Corner
Sangaree Intermediate
201 School House Lane; Summerville
St. Stephen Middle
225 Carolina Drive; St. Stephen
Hanahan Elementary
4000 Mabeline Road; Hanahan
Charleston County
Minnie Hughes Elementary
8548 Willtown Road; Hollywood
E.B. Ellington Elementary
5600 Ellington School Road; Ravenel
C.C. Blaney Elementary
7184 S.C. Highway 162; Hollywood
What to do and when to do it
Before a storm
Prepare an evacuation plan
--Identify ahead of time where you could go if you are told to evacuate. Choose several places — a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter.
--Keep handy the telephone numbers of these places, as well as a road map of your locality. You may need to take alternative or unfamiliar routes if major roads are closed or clogged.
--Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for evacuation instructions. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
What to take with you
--Prescription medications and medical supplies.
--Bedding and clothing, including sleeping bags and pillows.
--Bottled water, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, first-aid kit, flashlight.
--Car keys and road maps.
--Documents, including driver's license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc.
Assemble a disaster supplies kit
These items should be included:
--First-aid kit and essential medications.
--Canned food and can opener.
--At least 3 gallons of water per person.
--Protective clothing, rainwear and bedding or sleeping bags.
--Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
--Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.
--Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on.)
Prepare for high winds
--Install hurricane shutters or purchase precut 5/8-inch outdoor plywood boards for each window of your home. Install anchors for the plywood and predrill holes in the plywood so that you can put it up quickly.
--Make trees more wind-resistant by removing diseased and damaged limbs, then strategically removing branches so that wind can blow through.
When under a hurricane watch
--Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm information.
--Prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.
--Prepare to cover all windows of your home. If shutters have not been installed, use precut plywood as previously described.
Note: Tape does not prevent windows from breaking, so taping windows is not recommended.
--Fill your car's gas tank.
--Tie-downs on manufactured homes.
--Check batteries and stock up on canned food, first-aid supplies, drinking water and medications.
When under a hurricane warning
--Listen to the advice of local officials, and leave if they tell you to do so.
--Complete preparation activities.
--If you are not advised to evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows.
--Be alert for tornadoes. Tornadoes can happen during a hurricane and after it passes over. Remain indoors, in the center of your home, in a closet or bathroom without windows.
--Stay away from flood waters. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and climb to higher ground.
During a storm
--Stay inside in a safe place.
--Closely monitor radio, TV or NOAA Weather Radio for official bulletins.
--Close storm shutters.
--Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if ordered!
If staying in a home
--Turn refrigerator to maximum cold and keep closed.
--Turn off utilities if told to by authorities.
--Turn off propane tanks.
--Unplug small appliances.
--Fill bathtub and large containers with water in case tap water is unavailable. Use water in bathtubs for cleaning and flushing only. Do NOT drink it.
If winds become strong and you did not evacuate
--Stay away from windows and doors, even if they are covered.
--Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway.
--Be alert for:
1. Tornadoes: They are often spawned by hurricanes.
2. The calm eye of the storm: It may seem like the storm is over but after the eye passes, the winds will change direction and quickly return to hurricane force.
3. Storm surge flooding: These high waves can be more deadly than hurricane winds. Leave the coast and stay away from low-lying areas, creeks, streams and other inland waterways.
After a storm
--Keep listening to radio, TV or NOAA Weather Radio.
--Wait until an area is declared safe before entering.
--Watch for closed roads. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, turn around.
--Avoid weakened bridges and washed-out roads.
--Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from power lines.
--Once home, check gas, water and electrical lines and appliances for damage.
--Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Never use candles and other open flames indoors.
--Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until officials say it is safe.
--If using a generator, ventilate and avoid electrocution by following manufacturers' instructions and electric code.
Diette Courrégé, Edward C. Fennell, Prentiss Findlay, Lauren Santander and David Slade contributed to this report. Reach Bo Petersen at bpetersen@postandcourier.com or 745-5852.
Note to readers: Earlier versions of this story incorrectly stated that James Island officials were handing out hurricane stickers to residents. The Post and Courier regrets the error.
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Comments
CharlestonJim (anonymous) says...
We should not mock the weather, but we can of course mock the local tv stations.
I heard some stores were already running out of water. That is nuts. Hurricanes are terrible, yes. But the media is all about raising the levels of fear in the world today. Remember the people filling up coolers and other things with gas after Katina? In Charleston? It was the run on the stores (fear) that showed speculators and oil companies we would do anything for oil and pay anything. And look what slowly happened over the next 3 years. Did global demand go up 300%? No, but the price did.
Stop fear, people. If it comes here, leave. Charleston is great. But Anderson is better in September when CHS has no power and it is 95 degrees and Anderson Cooper is in your front yard talking about how the poor people, "like the ones who live here" are the "true victims of the storm".
Where did the grace and style of Charlie Hall and Mike Hiott go in local news? I am the only person left who was born and raised in CHS (St Francis 1975) and know who these people are? Did they scare old people, minorities and the poor? No. Did they care about the CHS area? Yes.
Don't be one of the 250000 packing on 26 at the same time on Thursday morning expecting to drive 75 all the way to Greenville. Keep in mind that 61 runs all the way to 178 and goes to Aiken. Get on 20, go to Altanta and see some Braves games this weekend. Get on 41 in Mt P and go to Florence, get on 95 or 20 there and go anywhere in the world. I hear Ashville is nice this time of year.
Don't have money? Stay in cheap hotels, cook the food in your fridge (likely ruined anyway), pack it and (GASP) not eat at Crapplebees 3 times a day. A loaf of white bread and jar of peanut butter lasts a long time. You prob have them around the house.
Or you could wait it out, suffer through the storm as you read or something for the days (or weeks) it takes to get power back. Don't forget to make yourself a fan out of the Post and C from Thursday. Sit around looking for reporters to complain too about how the government has let you down because you decided to stay. They will be happy to put you on the air. After a few days, radio stations may be back on the air, or you could listen to AM radio at night in your car (the one not under the oak tree) from far away places to pass the time. Stay and save your precious TV (which wont be working, by the way) from looters. Looters dont loot because people arent home. Most people arent home all day anyway. They loot because there is a sense of a lack of the rule of law. People will shoot you over a TV. They dont much care if you are home or not.
September 3, 2008 at 2:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nmeek (anonymous) says...
Keep an Eye on Cantory
From the edge of our sofas, we track Jim Cantory
as he flits city-to-city, to bring us the latest story
on killer storms like dying Gustav and fickle Hanna,
while we calmly bite off another chunk of banana,
wondering if we should get off our duffs and pack
or plod off to work in spite of the latest storm track.
At the moment, brave Jim's being pelted by rain,
and the look on his face is one of absolute pain.
OH NO! Watch out for that street sign flying by!
Get out of the way, Jim! If not, you might die!
Oh, God, I can't stand it! I must turn off my set;
as I pray for poor Cantory, my eyes growing wet.
What a brave man, that Jim, flitting city-to-city.
Tossed by those wind gusts, it really is a pity,
that ol' Jim doesn't know to get the heck inside,
not to mention his cameraman; bless his wet hide.
As I leave for work, I really hate this not knowing;
so track Jim for me. It's where Hanna is going!
Nancy L. Meek ~ September 2, 2008
September 3, 2008 at 3:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
moonpie (anonymous) says...
St Francis 1962 Jim, I said the same thing about the news people yesterday. Charlie Hall has rolled over in his grave watching the likes of Walsh.
Man I can't believe people are already doing the box store trot. If the thing does hit here or near its expected to be a cat one. I'm waiting for the Hugo tribute any night. We have had worse t-storms, settle down peeps!
Take a zanax people! Move along no story here,yet! Check back Friday...?
September 3, 2008 at 6:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Lois_Lane (anonymous) says...
Anyone care for another potted meat sandwich?
September 3, 2008 at 6:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
abitskeptical (anonymous) says...
Why is Walsh getting a beating?
He does have a lot of energy but the alarmist stuff comes almost exclusively from the talking heads..the ANCHORS at Channel 5, not from him as he delivers the weather info.
I doubt that he has much to do with the lead ins & enticing blips between newscasts.
September 3, 2008 at 6:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kma71 (anonymous) says...
No doubt ColdBeer, Harve is a news whore. A friend of mine used to work with him at channel 5 and invited Harve over for a party. He just kind of stood in the corner and kept to himself. I think he is an introvert. JMO!
September 3, 2008 at 7:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
postman01 (anonymous) says...
CharlestonJim, I am a native like you and yes, I remember Charlie Hall and Mike Hiott. Your observations about both Hanna and other matters are astute and accurate, which we both know is unfortunate but true.
September 3, 2008 at 7:55 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
a_set_love (anonymous) says...
We can now prepare for Mr. Riley to be built up, by the local news media, as the saviour of the Tri-County Metro area.
Fridays headlines from charleston's media....
"The killer storm threatens charleston, but in city hall Mayor Joesph P. Riley Jr., hero of Hugo, stands firm in his resolve to lead us through this dark and troubling time."
Boy, If a person ever really sucked.......... NObama-08
September 3, 2008 at 7:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tc1 (anonymous) says...
I've been watching ch2 and Rob Fowler has been very calm and sensible IMO. My surprise has been Josh Marther. He is doing well also. I don't think he deliberatly gets carried away he is just really into his field and gets excited. They obviously put a leash on him and they keep saying it's to early to tell and to many variables but this is how you prepare. I remember Charlie Hall very well and from what I have seen so far Fowler would make him proud.
September 3, 2008 at 8:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lucy_fan (anonymous) says...
I dated Harve a few times way back when. He is very sure of himself, to put it nicely. A very intelligent man, but not exactly what I would call a pary animal.
September 3, 2008 at 8:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
RTC (anonymous) says...
Lucy, about Harve....we'll talk later. LOL
My husband and I were at several hardware stores yesterday buying nonstorm related items. People were buying propane like it was going out of style.
My neighbor was installing his aluminum window shutters after dark last night, so I thought something horrible had changed with the weather. I ran inside to check and found out that everything was the same.
We need to always keep our supplies stocked during hurricane season, but there really is no reason for paranoia.
September 3, 2008 at 8:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CMLMADDOG (anonymous) says...
What's funny is you all know the names of the news talent, so you must be watching! Hahahaha!
You're probably the same idiots who will wait for FEMA to come save you, instead of taking personal responsibility for yourselves.
September 3, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
WestAshleyMomma (anonymous) says...
St Francis (1954), I also remember Charlie and Mike. When did the evacuations start anyway? I've lived here all my life, and prior to Hugo, there was never any talk of the whole Charleston County evacuating! I stayed for Hugo, with my dad, small son and his dad. I left for Floyd, since both my dad and husband passed since Hugo. But now, I own a home. I will stay and prtotect it, slong with my son.
September 3, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lucy_fan (anonymous) says...
RTC- I was very young, ok? Don't hold that against me!!!
September 3, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ln1959 (anonymous) says...
James Island- 1959...Yes, I remember Charlie Hall, who didn't. He was the face of Charleston News and very respected.
As WestAshleyMomma stated-- who started this evacuating process. I as a child do not remember every leaving because of a storm coming. I remember having to go to a shelter once or twice, I think. ha ha ha
I was around when Floyd was on its way. They ran us out of Mayport, FL the day before. I sat an watched the news about the traffic that was stalled on 26 and just shake my head. Then next day I got up and drove back to VA, which is where Floyd hit anyway.
Don't know what this storm is going to do, but they are getting ready for it up here in Northern Virginia also.
September 3, 2008 at 9:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
STREETLAW (anonymous) says...
AS that doom and gloom forecaster who is a cross between Howdy Doody, Barney Fife and Pee Wee Herman (he's not from around here you know) does his best to beguiled us with his weathernoia and hurrihype, in the long run these pundits get people killed. I mean after all, if they can be on the beach, why not the rest of us.
September 3, 2008 at 10:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tc1 (anonymous) says...
RTC,
While I agree that there is a lot of the chicken litlle syndrome, it is only prudent to prepare for the worst. Does your neighbor work all day? It is easier to put up his shutters when it is dark without the rain and wind. I am retired and will start putting up mine today at a liesurely pace. If and when it starts I will be as relaxed as possible knowing I have done all I could Before it started. If it doesn't show up at all, not likely, I will Thank God and put everything away for next time(week?).
September 3, 2008 at 10:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lmh1991 (anonymous) says...
I was born in the Old Baker Hospital in 1972. And I miss Charlie too. Good comments Charleston Jim
September 3, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
RTC (anonymous) says...
tc1, I agree that it is better to be safe than sorry, as the old saying goes. My neighbors are paranoid about everything, not just storms.
My family always has the extra supplies on hand during hurricane season. There is no need for people to wait until the last minute to buy these things. Get them while the supplies are readily available. Lowcountry natives should know this by now.
I was barely born when Gracie did that little number, but I remember my parents talking about it all my life. We are better off now than we were back then, but no amount of technology can accurately predict nature.
September 3, 2008 at 10:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Neponset (anonymous) says...
I agree with the comments above about the local weather hype - I think the local "weather experts" are light weights. I say monitor NOAA.gov for accurate info and act accordingly. The next report is due at 11:00. I have to make a decision soon about putting up my precut plywood shutters, which have been installed a few times in the past .
Note:
I screw them into the brick molding using sheet rock screws - 1 5/8" work fine.
September 3, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jca (anonymous) says...
i remember charlie hall too born here in 78
stores are out of water batteries and most canned goods
my mom works in a store that sells this kind of stuff and people are freaking out over hanna
as someone said on a different story we have had thunderstorms worse than this maybe
i am stuck between a rock and a hard place no money til friday so i shall suffer
no this wasnt poor planning school just started and my son need a lot of stuff so money was thin
we shall see the current track has hanna going towards where she came from
September 3, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
suec (anonymous) says...
Peopel should make sure theitr prescriptions are filled, cars gassed up, water saved, etc.
How can some of you criticize people for doing what is smart and for being prepared?
The Katrina "victims" were the who sat in their living rooms with a case a beer and twinkies instead of being prepared.
Jst because the Rx line was long and there were a lot of cars at teh gas station does not mean there is PANIC! it means people are being proactive. Panic sets in after a storm for those who were not prepared.
I bpught 4 gallons of water yeaterday and a guty in the checkout line actually rolled his eyes at me.
September 3, 2008 at 10:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
I'm not a native of Charleston but have lived here for nearly 15 years. Originally I'm from Florida and used to live in the Tampa bay area. Everyone who's from an area that's prone to hurricanes knows the drill and you know that it's better to prepare well in advance. I can't figure out why so many will rush to the grocery stores at the last minute. Most of the supplies should already be in a closet and ready to go. I'm debating right now whether or not I should get to higher ground, but I don't want to end up in a 12-hour traffic jam. Considering how fast the storm is moving you'd almost be better off to go into an above-ground parking garage and wait a few hours for it to pass and then head back home.
September 3, 2008 at 10:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CMLMADDOG (anonymous) says...
ColdBeer,
Please do not evacuate your trailer in Moncks Corner if the storm comes. Maybe it will fly away.
Stock up on your Natural Light too. You sound intelligent!
September 3, 2008 at 10:49 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tc1 (anonymous) says...
RTC, good post for those that haven't "been there, done that". :)
September 3, 2008 at 10:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mollycooper (anonymous) says...
I too miss Charlie Hall. During Hugo he got very upset the day before and encouraged people to leave. I stayed and was very scared that I did. During the Floyd mess I left and it took 23 hours to get to Atlanta. I can not leave this time, I have too many animals to leave and I will not leave them behind. So my children and I will hunker down, while their Dad is working for the State on the highways. Not all people have the pleasure of leaving. Police and Troopers have to stay and help others get out. It may be wrong for my family to stay, but at least we will all be together.
September 3, 2008 at 10:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tc1 (anonymous) says...
Yes, fast moving is GOOD! Remember Gaston a few years ago was here befor sunup and as a "tropical storm" was still beating hell out of berkely county well after sundown. If Hugo had done that the tri county area would still be a ghost town.
September 3, 2008 at 11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Neponset (anonymous) says...
The 11:00 noaa report displays the cone centered on SC/NC line. The latest computer models favor a strike there also. This is just the latest guesstimate and we shall see - I hate this waiting.
September 3, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
23 hours to get to Atlanta????
I'm still upset that none of our elected officials were put into Federal prison over the way that evacuation was handled.
September 3, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
iceman1978 (anonymous) says...
Neponset, Don't worry. Our receptionist at work will know where the storm's hitting before anyone. She's constantly on the phone gossiping when there are no incoming calls.
September 3, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
icbmman (anonymous) says...
Iceman, indeed, Hodges and many of his cronies should have been tossed for their gross incompetence when Floyd came. I was still in the Air Force, and I remember getting calls from my base in Colorado from my family, letting me know that they traveled 5 miles in 2 hours.
That debacle and this situation RIGHT NOW is the reason why another interstate should be built into Chas...this freeway should start after the planned Long Savannah from Glenn McConnell and head west towards Augusta. Imagine how easy it would be for evacuations if both outgoing interstates had their lanes reversed. We wouldn't be hearing stories of 12 hours to Greenville or 23 hours to Atlanta.
If Hanna or Ike hit Chas, serious considerations for a new highway need to be made after hurricane season ends.
September 3, 2008 at 11:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mollycooper (anonymous) says...
Interstate 26 will be reversed if there is an evacuation. The State Troopers and Local Police have already had a practice for this earlier this summer. All Sanford has to do is order it. By the way all Highway Patrolman have been on standby since Monday. This means they have to be ready within 1 hour.
September 3, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
I am with ya jca,, your not alone....
September 3, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Posted by James_Crackcorn on September 3, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
My dogs know a good hour and a half before we get a pop-up storm. They definitely have some type of 6th sense when it comes to the weather.
Mine just sits and growls and barks at me... he has no sense
September 3, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Neponset (anonymous) says...
Ice..
Keep us informed as to what she learns.
On the pet theory of weather forecasting, I have two cats (George of the bushes and Oreo), have been watching them very closely and I see no unusual behavior. Looks like we will dodge the bullet.
September 3, 2008 at 12:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sherlock (anonymous) says...
yea by this time tommorw it will be the outer banks of nc and then by friday it will be cuving back out to sea. i hate when the media gets people worked up. i say take the medias first PREDICTION, move up about 150 miles or more and tyhat is where the storm will hit. they keep saying that these storms are unpredictable and yet that is exactly what they do every few hrs! everytime that make a prediction, peol ein that area go out and spend money. Meteorolgists are great fpor the economy!
September 3, 2008 at 12:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
It may be a first-But I agree with your entire post suec!I was born and raised here.So many people say I'm staying it's no big deal,blah blah blah.To each is own but I personally believe that if you have children and stay through a hurricane(by choice)you are not a very good parent.I know I'm gonna catch hell for that,but it's true.Why would any decent person want to expose their young children to a hurricane and possible tornado activity?And if anyone has ever evacuated..you know to leave early!If nothing happens-no harm no foul.It's a mini vacation.
September 3, 2008 at 12:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Neponset (anonymous) says...
cool..
Good comment.
September 3, 2008 at 12:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
icbmman (anonymous) says...
I have felt pretty confident about Sanford being able to handle the I-26 lane reversal, if the need arises. I just wish our city and regional leaders would clue-in to the fact that as Chas grows, there will be a need for another interstate to accomodate an evacuation with more people.
I was born and raised here, and I remember Hugo vividly. Charlie Hall was indeed a class act, and his storm analysis was far less hyped than many of the "meteorologists" that are on the air now.
If you live near a tidal creek, and Hanna is a Cat 3 or worse, you'll need to evacuate. There is no need to stay for that...if she's a Cat 2, evacuation may not be necessary, but it needs to be considered (you probably just need to go towards St. George or Santee). I wouldn't worry if she's a Cat 1 or TS...however, the media will constantly blow it out of proportion regardless if the storm is weak.
September 3, 2008 at 12:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
Ok is anyone else out there getting aggravated by all of the differing information?I understand not being able to pinpoint the storms exact landfall.But on one end officials are saying don't wait too long to evacuate,then telling us our kids have a full day of school tomorrow,all while telling us a voluntary evacuation could be issued later today.WTH? Then again officials are known here to stall and then scream run for your lives at the last minute!!Then bitch about how we waited too long and clogged up I26.
September 3, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
Will work for batteries,, water and oh yea ....beer?????
September 3, 2008 at 1:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coolfreaknbeans (anonymous) says...
A little off topic for a minute.Did anyone know that Charlie Hall used to sport a speedo when he went to the beach?Thats a sight I'll never forget.
September 3, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Neponset (anonymous) says...
cool..
Are you a female?
September 3, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
walleyedwoman1215 (anonymous) says...
I was B&R in coastal NC... survived Hazel, Debbie, Charlie, Fern, Diana, etc. etc. Been in Fla. and S.C. for Hugo, Carlos, Andrew, Floyd... I'm no whacked-out survivalist, but in 47 years I've never evacuated and never will. Unless you're in a SW mobile home circa 1967 or suffer from a chronic illness such as diabetes or emphysema, riding it out isn't the hell it's played out to be. If you've got water, meds, radio and Beenie Weenies, you should be OK for several days or more.
Legal disclaimer: I am not an emergency preparedness official and have never had a house fall on my head.
September 3, 2008 at 9:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeff61 (anonymous) says...
walleyedwoman1215 for president in the future.. you are defenitly battle proven.. my hats off you.. and no I am not being a smart ass...however bad weather will not cause diabetes...I have it so I can speak to what causes it....like the Bullworth saying... you can't get aids from buring dwon your house but I get your point
September 3, 2008 at 9:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nmeek (anonymous) says...
To Our Fallen Star
When you wanted the weather,
Charlie Hall was there.
When you needed a friend,
not many compared,
a hero to some
and admired by all;
but now our sad city
has no Charlie Hall.
A very private man,
embarrased by his fame,
but Charlie Hall, the weatherman,
became a household name.
The residents depended
on Charlie's expertise.
He knew if it intended
to rain, shine or sleet.
The thought of him not being here
was very hard to grasp.
and calls were pouring in
by those who dared to ask,
"Is it true what we have heard__
that Charlie's passed away?"
the answer leaving many
not knowing what to say.
A funny, friendly fellow
off the air and on,
his death has left a hole
now that he is gone,
a fallen star, revered by those
who met him in this life,
the hole now filled with memories
of our humble friend who died.
This unassuming man
assumed we wouldn't grieve,
'cause little did he know
the legacy he'd leave.
We hope he doesn't mind
when our city tolls the call,
our farewell en masse. . .
"We'll miss you, Charlie Hall.
We know your skies are sunny,
no matter where you are;
but there's darkness here in Charleston
since we lost our shining star."
Nancy L. Meek ~ 1997
September 10, 2008 at 1:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nmeek (anonymous) says...
Hurricane Frances Entrances US
We're makin' our list and checkin' it twice
in case Hurricane Frances isn't so nice.
We'll leave this ol' town like dust in the wind
'til the hurricane's gone and it's calm again.
The chickens, I'm afraid, will have to make do
'cause we ain't cleanin' up no feathers nor poo.
We'll have to make sure that we gas up the car
'cause after my surgery, I can't run very far.
You can bet your batteries we won't flee too late
and get stuck in dang traffic on some interstate.
Nancy L. Meek ~ June 25, 2005
September 10, 2008 at 1:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nmeek (anonymous) says...
Killer Katrina Critics
From our couches, we critics can safely relate,
as Killer Katrina pummels a vulnerable southern state,
as homes are flooded from levees of flimsy design,
as our empathy screams, "It could've been mine!"
"It could've been me there. . .my wife. . .my son,
trapped in those attics with no place to run;
screaming and wailing, torn from our embrace;
the toll, sooner or later, bloating their innocent face."
It's so easy to point fingers from our easy chair,
"Why don't we send help? Doesn't anyone care?
What's that you say?. . .'The prez is having cake?!'
My god! People are dying for goodness sake!
It could've been him there. . .his wife. . .his daughter,
stuck without cars. . .without food. . .without water,
as gun-toting looters ransack that battered town,
enjoying their cake, too; that is, until they drown."
Nancy L. Meek ~ September 11, 2005
September 10, 2008 at 1:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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