Every year they predict how many major storms are going to hit; only once in my 29 years of selling real estate on Hilton Head have they come close to predicting the correct number.

It amazes me that they think they can predict the number of storms we are going to have when most weather channels cannot even get the weather right 72 hours in advance.

People often ask if I am afraid of hurricanes living on Hilton Head Island.  Any time you live in a coastal area that is a concern.

I received a copy of a map from NOAA that shows landfalls of named storms from 1950 to the present.  These are color coded Category 1-5.  Click here to see the Hurricane Map – 1950 – 2008

Much to my surprise, one of the least affected locations on the east coast of the United States was Jacksonville to Hilton Head with only one category 2 storm in the last 58 years.

People often say that Hilton Head is the furthest western beach on the east coast.  I have heard people say it is because the gulf stream is so far out from shore and I have also heard people say that it is because the water is so much shallower here than in other places.  I’m not as concerned with the reasons as I am with the history. 

Yes, I am somewhat concerned.  Am I going to worry about it – no.  That is why we have flood insurance.  I’m also basing it on past history – it seems like they always miss us and I have always believed that past history is an indication of future results. 

I have always told people that if this is something that really concerns them, they should not buy in a coastal community.

*information courtesy of NOAA