BEAUFORT, S.C. (Aug. 28, 2023) – Tropical Storm Idalia, which is projected to become a major hurricane when it makes landfall along the Florida Gulf Coast, is likely to bring tropical storm winds and significant rainfall in Beaufort County, probably starting Wednesday. The City of Beaufort is preparing for this event.
Public Works Department
Tidal gates in Basin 1 and Basin 2, Mossy Oaks: The floats have been pulled, meaning that water can only go out with the tide; no tidal surge will come into the basins. This will better allow the basins to collect rainwater.
Ponds and ditches: Public Works is assessing ponds and ditches to determine which ones need to have water lowered before the storm hits.
Parks: The City’s main parks are being mowed today. Parks equipment is being inspected, and anything with the potential to become flying debris will be moved indoors or tightly secured.
City buildings: All generators are fueled and tested, including at all fire stations.
Equipment: All chainsaws and other essential equipment are prepared to allow Public Works to respond quickly during and after the storm.
Homeowner tips
Please make sure you move inside, or securely tie down, any outside furniture, flags, ornaments, etc., that have the potential to become flying debris. Check and fuel your generators. Check ditches in front of your home to make sure debris and obstructions are cleared. If the debris is too big for you to handle, please call Public Works at 843-525-7054, and a crew will do its best to get to you.
Garbage/recycling pickups
The City of Beaufort will alert you via Facebook and Nextdoor if Capital Waste delays or cancels service due to the storm threat.
Keeping up with alerts & information
Check the City of Beaufort Facebook page and Nextdoor posts for the latest information about Idalia. Follow the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office on Facebook as well. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division Facebook page has lots of good tips, plus current information.
Make sure you are signed up for Nixle (emergency) alerts from the City of Beaufort and Beaufort County.
The Hurricane Readiness section on the City’s website has a great deal of information about what to do before, during and after a hurricane.
(Photo: Public Works fuels one of the Police Department's high-water vehicles.)
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