I’m often asked, “Should we worry about Hurricanes in the Savannah area?”.
It may seem strange, but I can reply that we experience a lower incidence of hurricane activity.
Looking at a map you’ll see that we are not only protected by ample barrier islands, we are also in one of the most western areas on the east coast.
Photo: Google Maps
Georgia has a very attractive coastline; there are just fewer miles of it than our neighboring states. Both Florida and South Carolina have seen their fair share of hurricane activity. The Savannah area has not seen any major devastation from a direct hit (due to a hurricane) in over 100 years.
I did not live here during Hurricane David, a category 2 storm, but many of my relatives did. Our discussions on the storm have lead me to believe that the loss of power was the worst of the issues they had to deal with. No home destruction – no major devastation.
There are those that say we may be over due, but the curved nature of our coast line suggests we’re more likely to experience the reminisce of a bad storm as to receive a direct hit. Data shows that the geographical location of Savannah being further away from the Gulfstream’s warm currents helps as well. Its over 80 miles to the warm waters of the Gulfstream waters that tend to strength hurricanes and guide them further North. Distance is on Savannah’s side.
Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
According to hurricanecity.com, the Savannah area has a 70% chance of a tropical storm versus a 30% chance of a major hurricane hit. USAToday gives Savannah the probability of experiencing a major storm (with winds exceeding 111 mph) within 75 miles of the city at 1.3 over a 100 year period.
The most common month for our area to experience a tropical storm is August. That most tropical storms arrive in August is no surprise. By the time the heat of August hits, most welcome the winds and rains just to cool us off! In my opinion heat stroke in August is a bigger concern than a direct hit from a hurricane!
What if there is a hurricane?
We have technology on our side. Weather reports and various websites keep us up to date on any storms with the potential of being upgraded or downgraded. These storms do not hit out of the blue like they did to those living here 100 years ago.
My conservative motto has always been to prepare for the worst although my optimistic side looks and hopes for the best!
Here are a couple of my go to sites:
Ready – Government site with great info to help be prepared
National Weather Service – Another government site with great info to help be prepared
WTOC – local news weather watch
Please call me today for more information or questions about your relocation needs!
Melanie Kramer
Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct
