Can I evacuate before an evacuation order?

During a pending storm, early evacuation is encouraged if it is a personally available option. As a former emergency manager said, “When you see a storm brewing, it’s a perfect time to plan a trip to visit friends or family.” If you leave before an official evacuation order, you can travel freely via any route. Once an evacuation order is issued, you may have to take a prescribed route out of town and endure traffic congestion.  If your schedule permits, leaving as soon as you are able can prevent congestion and personal frustration.

Show All Answers

1. Who has the authority to issue an evacuation order?
2. What local agency leads during hurricane season?
3. What if I need a shelter during a storm?
4. What if I need transportation to a shelter?
5. My neighborhood floods during major storms. What are ways to prevent flooding?
6. What are the best sources of information during a storm?
7. What if Beaufort County is being evacuated but the Savannah area is not?
8. What if I work in Georgia but live in Bluffton?
9. Can I evacuate before an evacuation order?
10. What happens if I stay in town during a mandatory evacuation order?
11. What can I do to prepare for a storm?
12. What can my neighborhood or POA do to prepare for a hurricane?
13. How does the Town of Bluffton prepare for a hurricane?
14. How do local contractors prepare for a hurricane?
15. What is the difference between a hurricane/tropical storm watch vs. warning?
16. What are the categories of storms and what exactly do they mean?
17. What do I do if my house loses power?
18. What are the evacuation routes?
19. What is the CARE program and how do I get added to it?
20. What is the Smart911 Program?
21. How do people who only speak Spanish access information regarding hurricanes?
22. ¿Cómo acceden las personas que solo hablan español a la información sobre huracanes?
23. What is an OPCON level and what do they mean?
24. What are all the social media and digital venues to access information for the Town of Bluffton and Bluffton Police Department?