Hurricane Preparedness for an Island Community

• New construction must include window covers and dedicated storage for those covers.
• Evacuate ground-stored vehicles—recreational vehicles, golf carts, boats, and boat trailers—within four (4) hours after a hurricane watch is issued for the island.
• Secure property when a hurricane watch is issued.
• Once a mandatory evacuation is issued, non-residents will not be allowed onto the island.

Residents are encouraged to evacuate and turn off power to their homes at the main breaker.

After the deadline for a mandatory evacuation has passed:

• The Mayor has the authority to turn off water and sewer to protect infrastructure.
• The Mayor has the authority to request power be turned off from the island to prevent electrical fires.
• To safely travel over the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge, fire trucks, ambulances, and other high-profile emergency vehicles will be evacuated from the island when wind speeds reach 50 mph.
• All other emergency personnel and equipment will be evacuated when storm surge begins to flood city streets.

• Do not attempt to return until emergency personnel determine it is safe.
• Residents will be allowed back on the island first. Be prepared to show proof of residency at a checkpoint.
• Property owners must show proof of ownership to be allowed onto the island.
• Proceed with cleanup safely. Remember that storms can displace snakes and other wildlife which may seek refuge in homes or debris.

• Village of Surfside Beach Alert System
• Ready.gov – Hurricanes
• NOAA – Hurricane Preparedness
• NWS Houston – Hurricane Guide
• Surfside Disaster Guide (PDF)
• City Code of Ordinances