Hurricane Season Begins: Laurens County, Be Ready—and Stay Alert

As the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins (June 1–November 30), forecasters are warning of another active year. Following last year’s devastating Hurricane Helene, inland communities like Laurens County were starkly reminded that the Upstate is not immune to hurricane impacts.

Why 2025 Could Be Particularly Active

• NOAA’s May outlook predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season, with 13–19 named storms, 6–10 hurricanes, and 3–5 major hurricanes (Category 3+).

• Colorado State University forecasts 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes, driven by warmer Atlantic waters and favorable climate conditions.

• Experts point to above-average sea surface temperatures and reduced wind shear as key contributors to the active forecast.

Helene’s Legacy: Upstate Felt the Effects

Though Helene made landfall in Florida in September 2024, its effects were felt far beyond the coast. As the storm swept inland across the Southeast:

• Over 7 million residents lost power across multiple states.

• Widespread flooding and wind damage occurred throughout the region.

• The six-month post-storm report confirmed that Laurens County experienced the highest winds in the Upstate, underscoring the storm’s reach and intensity even in inland areas.

Helene disrupted power, damaged homes, and left tree debris scattered throughout Laurens County—showing how even weakened hurricanes can pack a punch hundreds of miles from the coast.

🔑 Key Tips for Laurens County Residents

1. Know the Disaster Plan

   • Map evacuation routes—even from low-lying inland flood zones.

   • Identify accessible emergency shelters.

2. Build an Emergency Kit

   • Include 1 gallon of water per person per day (3-day supply), non-perishable food, flashlights, medications, and a first-aid kit.

3. Protect Your Home

   • Clear gutters, secure loose items, and trim trees.

   • Consider flood insurance, even outside FEMA-designated flood zones.

4. Stay Informed

   • Sign up for local alerts and keep a battery-powered weather radio handy.

   • Follow SC Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) and National Weather Service updates.

5. Plan for Outages

   • Prepare backup power sources and know how to safely store fuel.

Statewide Preparedness Efforts

South Carolina is urging residents to prepare early. Governor McMaster proclaimed May as Hurricane Preparedness Month, and agencies across the state have released updated guidance, including the 2025 South Carolina Hurricane Guide, which is available at scemd.org.

Climate Trends: Stronger, Slower-Moving Storms

Climate data shows a trend toward stronger storms that intensify rapidly and move more slowly after landfall—raising the risk of inland flooding and prolonged wind damage. For counties like Laurens, this trend highlights the importance of staying prepared even outside traditional coastal danger zones.

Final Reminder

Helene showed us that Upstate South Carolina is not out of reach during hurricane season. With 2025 forecasted to be another highly active year, it’s more important than ever to prepare in advance. Build your emergency kit. Secure your property. Stay connected.

Laurens County, let’s be ready!