HHI officials prepare for hurricane season | News

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC (WTOC)- Tropical Storm Alberto didn't seem to keep visitors from coming to Hilton Head Island.

Visitors packed the beach Monday, excited to soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves after a tropical storm watch this weekend.

"We actually came in on Saturday so were watching it on our phones and our iPads to see what it looked like," said Kristen Scherer, who was visiting from Ohio. "It seemed like it was getting better but we were definitely keeping our fingers crossed. 

"We stuck to the pool but the tides weren't too bad in the pool," said Ron Scherer. 

After being evacuated twice on vacation, the Scherer family actually planned their get away around hurricane season.

"We figured if we come to Hilton Head Island in May we'd certainly be safe, right.  August is the time you might be concerned about so it was certainly a surprise," said Kristen Scherer. "We're glad it's going to be a good week."

Alberto took Hilton Head Island's new Emergency Management Coordinator, Thomas Dunn, by surprise as well.  He hadn't even been on the job a week before Alberto came to town.

"I didn't expect it the first week," said Dunn. "I assume it was an arrival gift from the Chief. For me, it's a matter of getting ready, getting in gear a little faster."

Emergency officials say with hurricane season right around the corner, this was a good wake up call.

"I think it's a good reminder," said Hilton Head Island Fire Chief Lavarn Lucas. "No damage but it was an early season reminder that the season is upon us."

Many like the Scherer family are glad Mother Nature spared the island.

"We are definitely glad we're here," said Ron Schere. "Can't wait to enjoy a great week now."

Emergency officials say as they prepare for hurricane season on June 1, they recommend everyone gets ready as well. They say its important that everyone has their hurricane plan in place.  They say make sure you know where you are going, how you'll get there and what you'll bring with you.

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