Top 25 Hurricane Myths (and the Facts That Debunk Them)

Living in the Lowcountry means understanding that hurricane season isn’t a matter of if — it’s a matter of when. From Charleston to Summerville and across the coastal Carolinas, storms can bring everything from flooding and wind damage to long power outages and dangerous debris. Yet even after decades of experience, plenty of misconceptions still circulate about how to prepare and stay safe.

At Atlantic Property Restoration, we’ve seen firsthand how misinformation can make storm damage worse. So, let’s separate hurricane myths from hurricane facts — and make sure you know what really keeps your home and family safe.

1. Opening windows during a hurricane will equalize pressure and save your home.

Fact: This is one of the most dangerous myths out there. Opening windows lets in wind and rain, increasing internal pressure and structural damage. Keep all windows and doors sealed tight.

2. Taping windows will keep them from breaking.

Fact: Tape doesn’t prevent shattering. It can make broken glass more dangerous by creating larger, sharper shards. Use proper storm shutters or plywood instead.

3. Hurricanes only affect coastal areas.

Fact: Don’t be fooled by distance from the shore. Hurricanes can cause severe flooding, tornadoes, and high winds hundreds of miles inland.

4. Storm surge is just a big wave.

Fact: Storm surge is a powerful, fast-rising flood of seawater that can reach miles inland and cause catastrophic flooding.

5. The stronger the wind, the more dangerous the hurricane.

Fact: Flooding and storm surge are responsible for most hurricane-related deaths and damage — not wind alone.

6. Category 1 or 2 storms are not dangerous.

Fact: Even “weaker” hurricanes can bring deadly flooding, storm surge, and long-term power outages. Therefore, every storm deserves respect.

7. The eye of the storm is the safest place to be.

Fact: The calm in the eye is temporary. Once it passes, the eyewall follows — bringing the storm’s most violent winds.

8. If you survived the last hurricane, you’ll be fine in the next one.

Fact: Every hurricane is unique, with different paths, surge levels, and rainfall amounts. Past experiences don’t guarantee safety.

9. Only people in evacuation zones need to worry.

Fact: Flooding, downed trees, and blocked roads can affect anyone in the storm’s path. It’s not just those ordered to evacuate.

10. You can outrun a hurricane by car at the last minute.

Fact: By the time you try, it’s often too late. Roads can be jammed or flooded. Always evacuate early when local officials recommend it.

11. A lower category hurricane means less flooding.

Fact: Category ratings measure wind speed, not rainfall or storm surge. Even a Category 1 storm can bring devastating floods.

12. Boarding up windows is unnecessary if you have storm shutters.

Fact: If you don’t have shutters, board up your windows with plywood for extra protection. Flying debris is one of the biggest causes of interior damage.

13. The cone of uncertainty shows where the hurricane will hit.

Fact: The cone only shows the probable path of the storm’s center. Dangerous conditions can extend hundreds of miles beyond it.

14. Mobile homes are safe if anchored.

Fact: Even securely anchored mobile homes are highly vulnerable to high winds. Always evacuate to a sturdier structure.

15. Storm surge only happens directly on the beach.

Fact: Surge can travel inland along rivers, bays, and roadways, flooding areas that may seem far from the coast.

16. If the storm weakens before landfall, the danger is gone.

Fact: A “weakened” storm can still dump enormous amounts of rain, causing flash floods and landslides.

17. You don’t need insurance if you don’t live on the coast.

Fact: Inland flooding causes billions in damage every year — and standard homeowner’s policies typically don’t cover flood losses.

18. Hurricane season only matters for Florida and the Gulf Coast.

Fact: The entire Atlantic and Gulf regions, including the Carolinas and the Northeast, are at risk each hurricane season.

19. Hurricanes don’t happen in the Northeast U.S.

Fact: History proves otherwise. Major storms like Hurricane Sandy (2012) have caused massive destruction in New York, New Jersey, and New England.

20. Flooding only occurs in low-lying areas.

Fact: Heavy rainfall can overwhelm storm drains anywhere, creating flash floods in places that normally stay dry.

21. If the power goes out, refrigerated food is safe for days.

Fact: Food in a closed refrigerator stays safe for about four hours. In a full freezer, about 48 hours. After that, it should be discarded.

22. Filling your bathtub before a storm is pointless.

Fact: Having a clean water supply can be a lifesaver. Bathtub water can be used for flushing toilets and basic washing if water service fails.

23. Generators can safely run inside or in garages.

Fact: Never do this. Generators produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, deadly gas. Always run them outdoors, away from doors and windows.

24. Hurricanes can’t spawn tornadoes.

Fact: Tornadoes often form in the outer rainbands of hurricanes, increasing the danger even far from the eye.

25. Once the storm passes, the danger is over.

Fact: Post-storm hazards — including downed power lines, contaminated water, unstable structures, and floodwaters — remain long after the skies clear.

Bonus Myth: Hurricanes are over once October arrives.

Fact: Hurricane season officially runs through November 30 — and late-season storms can be some of the most unpredictable. Warm ocean waters in October and November often fuel powerful systems that form quickly and strike with little warning. Don’t let your guard down once summer ends; the Lowcountry remains at risk well into the fall.

Preparation Starts with Knowing the Facts

Hurricane myths can lead to dangerous decisions. Knowing the facts helps protect your family, your property, and your community. Preparation doesn’t stop when the storm forms. It starts long before hurricane season even begins.

If your property has been affected by a hurricane or severe storm, Atlantic Property Restoration is here to help you recover safely and efficiently.