The island Hugo hit hardest in 1989
Hurricane Hugo made direct Category 4 landfall on Isle of Palms on September 21, 1989, with sustained winds of 135-140 mph and a storm surge of 15 feet that washed over most of the island; combined with Sullivan's Island, damage reached nearly $270 million, and every home on both islands suffered some damage.
What that history means for water-damage response
A barrier island with Isle of Palms' surge history needs a restoration approach built around both saltwater intrusion and the structural moisture that lingers in elevated, piling-supported homes long after the water recedes.
Restoration options for Isle of Palms properties
What to describe
Tell us the water source, whether the home is elevated, and how much of the structure was affected.
Regional storm context
Isle of Palms sits almost entirely within FEMA-mapped flood zones; confirm current flood status and any elevation requirements with the island before finalizing a restoration or rebuild plan.