Hurricane Irma: S.C. Governor Pushes Back Evacuation Decision To Friday Evening

South Carolina residents waiting to hear whether the state would issue a mandatory evacuation for coastal regions in anticipation of Hurricane Irma had to wait a day longer for word from Gov. Hency McMaster, who said midday a decision will be made Friday evening after the National Weather Service issues its most current forecast.

“We are holding off on evacuation order decisions until after the @NWS 5 p.m. report,” McMaster tweeted on social media Sept. 8.

On Thursday, McMaster issued a mandatory evacuation of nursing homes and hospitals along the coast, and had said he intended to order coastal residents to leave by Saturday morning as the state vigorously prepares for Hurricane Irma’s anticipated landfall.

Healthcare facilities in coastal areas to began their evacuation Thursday at 2 p.m., The State newspaper reported. The evacuation order affected 143 facilities in Jasper, Beaufort, Colleton, Dorchester, Charleston, Berkeley, Georgetown and Horry counties.

• SEE ALSO: Where To Find Gas Stations With Fuel In S.C. During Irma Evacuation

Governors in both South Carolina and North Carolina declared a state of emergency for their states Sept. 6 in preparation of the storm’s arrival. Six Georgia counties on the coast are also under a state of emergency.

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Analysis: There's No Way Around Irma's Wrath For Florida

“I have been advised that Hurricane Irma, and the associated wind, heavy rain, flash flooding, and severe weather, to include tornadoes, may pose a significant threat to the State of South Carolina and requires that the State take timely precautions to protect property, critical infrastructure, communities, and the general safety and welfare of the people of this State,” Gov. Henry McMaster said Wednesday.

• SEE ALSO: Hurricane Irma: South Carolina In Likely Path, How To Prepare

On Sept. 7, South Carolina Emergency Management(SCEMD) said coastal residents should prepare for the possibility of evacuations by securing their home, preparing emergency supplies and having a planned destination.

This is a developing story and will be updated when more information becomes available.

Images via the National Weather Service

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