High Risk South Carolina  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Charleston County SC

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

8/ 10
Threat Score
Population
415,948
Area
919
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
55
federally declared

Charleston County on South Carolina's Low Country coast has one of the longest hurricane histories of any US county, with major storm strikes dating back centuries. The historic peninsula city sits at the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, making it extremely vulnerable to storm surge. Dorian caused significant flooding in 2019. The county's low elevation and tidal flooding already affect downtown Charleston regularly.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 8 / 10    High Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Storm Surge
Secondary Hazard Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone AE (High Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 55
Last Major Event Hurricane Dorian (2019)
Event Frequency Major event every 4–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (843) 202-6570
Emergency Shelters 32 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-26 Northwest, US-17 North, US-17 South, US-78 West

// County Profile

County Charleston County SC
State South Carolina (SC)
Population 415,948
Area 919 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (High Risk)

// Major Cities

North Charleston SC Mount Pleasant SC Charleston SC

// Cities in This County

// Other South Carolina Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

Joint Base Charleston SC
Military Installation  ·  North Charleston, SC  ·  US Air Force / US Navy  ·  25-mi risk zone
8/10 High
🏥
MUSC Medical Center Charleston SC
Major Hospital  ·  Charleston, SC  ·  MUSC Health  ·  25-mi risk zone
8/10 High
Port of Charleston SC
Port / Marine Terminal  ·  North Charleston, SC  ·  South Carolina Ports Authority  ·  10-mi risk zone
7/10 High

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.