Today, Saturday, August 31, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency.  South Carolinians are urged to prepare for the possibility of Hurricane Dorian impacting the state. The executive order enables all state agencies to coordinate resources and sets into effect the State Emergency Operations Plan.

Beaufort County officials continue to monitor the progress of Hurricane Dorian.  According to a notice from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, its Emergency Management Division has implemented Operational Condition 2 “Enhanced Awareness” as of 1 p.m. today, Saturday August 31. This action is based on the storm forecast for Hurricane Dorian and to increase the County’s state of preparedness.

Today at 5 p.m., local officials will participate in a conference call with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division and emergency management officials from counties throughout South Carolina. Following the conference call, the Sheriff’s Office plans to issue a NIXLE advisory.  Sign up for NIXLE at www.nixle.com to receive up-to-date information on matters of public safety from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office or text your zip code to 888777. To receive updates from Beaufort County Administration regarding County government operational schedules, sign up here. Updates from County Administration will also be posted online at www.beaufortcountysc.gov. Inquiries regarding flight information at Hilton Head Island Airport should be directed to American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or United.