Hurricane Matthew Town of Edisto Beach Update

As many of you have seen from news reports, Mother Nature was not kind to our beach. Emergency workers worked on safety and damage assessments today. We are grateful to our National Guard and other fellow state and local agencies who have helped.

DOT is working 24 hours a day to clear state roads. Staff, local volunteers and other jurisdictions are helping clear local roads and feed the relief workers.

Beach erosion is severe as well as debris and flooding Sand covers much of the first 11 blocks of Palmetto Boulevard. Power is still out and we just got part of the water system up and running. A boil water notice is in effect.

We have been getting many calls from residents who are concerned about their properties. Town hall is fielding these calls and tomorrow we will have staff available to check properties and take a few pictures and respond back about these requests. We will also be allowing owners by zones to access the beach on a limited time basis to check properties beginning Tuesday, October 10. The schedule will be posted tomorrow.

We are still working in many areas and everyone’s safety is paramount.

Hurricane Matthew Edisto Beach Police Department Update

Folks, we are aware that Governor Haley stated that the evacuation has been lifted for Colleton County. This DOES NOT apply to Edisto Beach. Due to the damage we suffered and the hazards that still exist, we are continuing the evacuation for the beach at this time. We hope to expedite your return but please bear with us for a while longer. Due to the conditions that exist, even some who stayed for the storm are now choosing to leave.

Just to let you know a little of what is going on here on the beach. There is no electricity. There is no water. Many roads are impassable due to downed trees, power lines and water (some of which is very deep). There are hazards on the roads including wood, nails, large propane tanks, etc. Driving through standing water is dangerous due to hidden hazards under the water. Many structures, while standing, have been weakened or compromised by the impact of Hurricane Matthew. We are trying to assess structural integrity as well as clear roads to allow entry as soon as possible. We are also trying to check on the welfare of those who chose to remain on the island during the storm. The mayor and town officials are working around the clock to expedite the processes required. Outside agencies have generously offered assistance during this time. We ask your patience and prayers as we all come together for our common goal.

From the Edisto Beach Police Department Facebook Page

Hurricane Matthew Evacuation

With Hurricane Matthew bearing down on the Atlantic coast, S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley declared a state of emergency Tuesday and called for the evacuation of coastal counties and closure of school and government office starting Wednesday.

Haley urged residents evacuating coastal communities to get at least 100 miles away from the coast and make sure to fill up on gasoline. If the hurricane stays its current course, it could be a category 2 or 3 hurricane by the weekend with storm surges of five to seven feet, she said.

The evacuation will begin at 3 p.m. Wednesday for Beaufort, Jasper, Colleton, Charleston, Dorchester, Berkeley, Horry and Georgetown.

Read more here: http://www.thestate.com/news/politics-government/article105907557.html#storylink=cpy

Tropical Storm Julia

At this time (9/14/16), Julia has dropped approximately four inches of rain on Edisto Beach. The Ocean Ridge back gate at Jenkins Street is significantly flooded. Please use the front gate to enter and exit until the storm has passed and the water has receded. Be careful out there!