A statewide hurricane evacuation drill is taking place in South Carolina today, with two corridors, U.S. 501 and S.C. 544, passing through Horry County. The drill, led by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, aims to test the state’s evacuation plan and ensure readiness in case of a real storm.

What to Expect

During the drill, drivers can expect to see increased patrol presence and crews working along the routes, but no traffic lanes will be reversed, and the flow of traffic will not be impeded. The exercise is a crucial part of the state’s hurricane response plan, which was built after the chaotic 1999 evacuation for Hurricane Floyd.

The five corridors being exercised today line up with the three major coastal target areas. Interstate 26 serves Charleston and the Lowcountry, while U.S. 21 and U.S. 278 serve Beaufort County and Hilton Head. U.S. 501 and S.C. 544 serve the Grand Strand.

Preparation is Key

Horry County residents are encouraged to review their hurricane-prep checklist and know their zone. The county is divided into Zones A, B, and C based on storm-surge risk. Residents can plan two routes and build a kit with essential items such as water, non-perishable food, medications, and flashlights.

The Atlantic hurricane season opened on June 1 and runs through November 30. While the forecast for this season is below average, residents are reminded that it’s essential to be prepared and stay informed.

Original reporting: MyrtleBeachSC News — read the source article.