South Carolina is located in the Southeast region of the United States. The most significant natural hazards for homeowners in South Carolina are flooding, hurricanes, extreme heat. Each hazard below is rated from 1 (very low) to 5 (very high) based on public hazard data, with practical guidance on what the rating means for your home.

Emergency preparedness in South Carolina is coordinated by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, which publishes alerts, evacuation information and preparedness guides for residents.

Risk levels in South Carolina

Flooding South Carolina faces a significant flood risk (level 4 of 5), driven by hurricanes, heavy thunderstorms, and coastal storm surges. Much of… High Hurricanes South Carolina has a high risk of hurricanes, with the coastal region facing storm surge and wind threats every year. Inland flooding can… High Extreme Heat South Carolina experiences some of the hottest and most humid weather in the Southeast, with extreme heat events affecting both coastal and… High Severe Storms South Carolina is rated 4 out of 5 for severe storm risk due to frequent thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, lightning, and flash flooding.… High Tornadoes South Carolina has a moderate tornado risk, rated level 3 of 5. Tornadoes can occur statewide, with peaks in spring and during fall… Moderate Earthquakes South Carolina has a moderate risk of earthquakes, with most seismic activity concentrated in the Charleston area and along the coastal… Moderate Drought South Carolina faces a moderate risk of drought, with dry conditions most likely in the summer and fall. Droughts can strain water… Moderate Wildfires Wildfires in South Carolina are a moderate but real hazard, particularly in rural and forested areas. The state experiences seasonal fire… Low Winter Storms South Carolina has a level 1 (low) winter storm risk, but freezing rain and ice can still disrupt the state, especially in the Upstate and… Very Low Landslides South Carolina has a low overall risk of landslides, rated Level 1 out of 5. The highest potential for landslides exists in the Piedmont… Very Low