Once the storm has passed, the following procedures must take place before re-entry is allowed:
Step 1
Law enforcement, first responders, followed by officials and authorized personnel, return to the island. Damage assessment teams are dispatched to quantify the damage and impact on the community. The initial damage assessment (also called a windshield survey) is due within 24 hours to Charleston County Emergency Management and does not include damaged property not seen from the road. If substantial damage is found during the initial assessment, teams will conduct an island-wide detailed inspection to evaluate the extent of damage to structures, infrastructure, and critical resources. That process could take days or weeks, depending on the storm's severity.
Step 2
The Governor has to lift the evacuation order, but this does not authorize re-entry to the island.
Step 3
The Mayor of Kiawah Island has to give the ALL-CLEAR and establish the re-entry schedule for residents. Residents may experience a delay between when an evacuation order is lifted and when re-entry is allowed. Re-entry will vary depending on the severity of the storm. Residents will not be allowed back until damage assessments are complete and the island has been deemed safe.
The criteria needed for re-entry are 1) primary roads have been cleared, 2) secondary roads have at least one lane available, and 3) power and water are restored.
Do not attempt to return to the island before Town officials have given the ALL-CLEAR. The Town will have Charleston County Sheriff Deputies establish a control point and restrict access. This restriction of public entry will be in addition to KICA and Deputy coverage on the island and provide evacuated residents greater assurance that the island and their homes are secure.