Hurricane season is part of life on the Grand Strand. This Homes Myrtle guide covers the official sources, evacuation zones, and home-preparation steps every homeowner in Horry and Georgetown counties should know.
This guide points you to official sources rather than predicting any storm. Always follow instructions from local emergency managers. Information here is current as of October 2026.
When Hurricane Season Runs
The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, per the National Hurricane Center. Storms can form outside those dates, but most activity falls within them. For forecasts, use the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service in Wilmington, NC, whose forecast area includes Horry and Georgetown counties.
Know Your Evacuation Zone
Horry and Georgetown counties use evacuation Zones A, B and C. Zone A is generally the most exposed and is called first. Look up your address with SCEMD's Know Your Zone tool or Horry County Emergency Management.
Your evacuation zone is separate from your FEMA flood zone. When you buy a home, record both. Evacuation orders come from the governor and local officials, so follow those orders instead of relying on a forecast map. We do not list drive times, because evacuation traffic varies widely. Plan your route ahead of time using official SCDOT and SCEMD guidance.
Before the Season: Home Checklist
Most preparation happens well before a storm forms.
- Review your homeowners, wind, and flood policies with a licensed insurance agent. Know your deductibles, and remember that new NFIP flood policies generally carry a 30-day waiting period (FEMA, as of October 2026).
- Photograph and video every room, along with the roof and exterior, and store the files off-site or in the cloud.
- Check shutters or other opening protection, garage door bracing, and roof condition.
- Trim trees and secure items that could blow around outdoors.
- Keep copies of your deed, policies, and IDs in a waterproof container.
- Build a supply kit using the list on Ready.gov.
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Strengthening Your Home
Wind-mitigation upgrades can make a home sturdier and may qualify for insurance credits. South Carolina requires insurers to offer credits for qualifying mitigation features, per the SC Department of Insurance. Eligible owner-occupied homes in coastal counties may also qualify for an SC Safe Home grant during open application windows. As of late October 2026, the program page says it is not currently accepting applications.
When a Storm Is Coming
Once a watch or warning is issued, follow official channels and act early. Fill prescriptions, fuel vehicles, and secure the house. If you are in an ordered evacuation zone, leave when told. Sign up for Horry or Georgetown County emergency alerts through the county emergency management pages.
After the Storm
Wait for officials to say it is safe before you return. Photograph damage before you make repairs, keep receipts for temporary fixes, and contact your insurers promptly. A licensed insurance agent or your carrier can explain the claims process for each policy.
Second Homes and Rental Properties
If you own a second home or rental here, plan for a storm while you are away. Arrange for a local contact or property manager to secure the home, and keep a written plan on file. Our Cost of Living in Myrtle Beach and Retiring to Myrtle Beach guides cover other ownership costs to plan for.
Living Here Year Round
Most years, residents plan, watch, and go on with life. Knowing your zones and policies ahead of time is what makes that possible. For a broader look at coastal living, see Pros and Cons of Living in Myrtle Beach and Moving to Myrtle Beach.
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