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South Carolina · Risk Readiness
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what South Carolina throws at different parts of the state.
See SC hazardsSC hazard profile
South Carolina's risk profile is driven by its coastal exposure. The state averages a direct or near-direct hurricane impact every 6–10 years, with Hugo (1989) and the surge from Matthew (2016) demonstrating the catastrophic potential. The Midlands and Pee Dee region face tornado risk from embedded supercells in tropical systems. Flooding is the most frequent killer — both from tropical systems pushing inland and from slow-moving thunderstorm complexes over already-saturated soil.
Direct landfalls and tropical moisture bring catastrophic wind, surge, and inland flooding.
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Occur across most of the state, often embedded in severe thunderstorm lines and tropical systems.
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Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
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Damaging straight-line winds, large hail, and lightning — March through October.
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Extreme heat events endanger vulnerable residents and stress power infrastructure.
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Official tools
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
South Carolina's coastal homeowner's insurance market is one of the most stressed in the country. The SC Wind and Hail Underwriting Association (Beach Plan) provides last-resort coverage for coastal properties that can't get private market coverage. Standard policies exclude flood — and SC's coastal plain saw widespread flooding from Matthew (2016) and Dorian (2019) in areas not previously considered high-risk. Flood insurance has a 30-day waiting period; it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
During an emergency
SC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to South Carolina.
SC Checklists