Local Officials to Continue Restricting Access to Hunting, Harbor and Fripp Islands 

Columbia, S.C. – In coordination with local officials, Governor Henry McMaster today announced that all evacuation orders have been lifted for residents of the 8 barrier islands previously evacuated, effective today, Tuesday at 9:15 AM, and that local officials are now responsible for permitting access to each of the islands.

Beaufort County: Hilton Head and Daufuskie islands are currently open for re-entry. Local officials will restrict access to Hunting, Harbor and Fripp Islands.

Colleton County: Due to current conditions and damage in Edisto Beach, local officials will restrict access and will announce the re-entry plan at a noon press conference today.

Jasper County: Tulifinny and Knowles islands are open for re-entry.

The governor lifted the evacuation order by issuing Executive Order 2017-26.

The governor also issued Executive Order 2017-27, rescinding the mandatory medical evacuation of healthcare facilities.