Tag: hurricane-helene

South Carolina’s Worst Roads to Drive on During a Disaster

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn South Carolina, South Carolina's worst roadsLeave a comment

Driving Through the Storm: Survivalist Strategies for Navigating South Carolina’s Worst Roads in a Disaster

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned after years of traversing war zones, hurricane paths, and backcountry roads from the Appalachian hills to the swamps of Louisiana, it’s this: you don’t survive a disaster by luck—you survive by preparation and skill. South Carolina, with its thick pine forests, low-lying flood zones, and hurricane-prone coastlines, offers up a unique challenge to the survival-minded driver. When natural disasters hit—be it hurricane, flood, or even civil unrest—your ability to get in your rig and move can mean the difference between life and death.

I’ve driven every stretch of this state, from the marshy edges of Beaufort to the washed-out farm roads of Marion County. And I’ve seen what happens when people panic and rely too much on GPS and too little on grit. Below, I’ll break down 15 survival driving skills that will keep you mobile when others are stranded. I’ll also give you three DIY hacks for when your fuel runs dry—because out there, ingenuity is often your best co-pilot.

But before we dive in, you need to understand something about South Carolina’s roads during a crisis: they can become death traps.

South Carolina’s Worst Roads in a Disaster Scenario

South Carolina doesn’t lack for challenging terrain even on a blue-sky day. Add a natural disaster and you’re looking at some serious trouble zones. The worst roads? They’re the ones most likely to flood, clog, or collapse.

  1. US-17 (Charleston to Georgetown) – Beautiful coastal views, sure—but a hurricane’s dream target. Storm surge floods this route quickly, and it turns into a swampy mess fast.
  2. I-26 (Charleston to Columbia) – One of the main evacuation routes during hurricanes. It gets clogged fast, and if authorities reverse lanes (contraflow), you’re stuck in a one-way funnel.
  3. SC-9 (Marlboro and Horry Counties) – Known for low visibility and poor maintenance, especially near flood zones.
  4. US-501 (Conway to Myrtle Beach) – A bottleneck in every evacuation. Flooding and traffic jams make it impassable in hours.
  5. I-95 near Lake Marion – This stretch is susceptible to wind damage and long-term closures. Fallen trees, washed-out bridges—you name it.
  6. SC-41 through Jamestown – Low bridges and thick woods make it hard to navigate post-disaster.
  7. Old Charleston Highway (Beaufort County) – Narrow and often surrounded by swampy ditches.
  8. Rural routes through the Pee Dee region – Poor signage, washouts, and zero cell reception.
  9. Greenville’s mountain foothill backroads – Prone to landslides during heavy rains.
  10. Backroads of McCormick and Edgefield Counties – Gorgeous but deserted—if you break down, you’re on your own.

15 Survival Driving Skills to Master Now

  1. Off-Road Navigation
    GPS is great until it isn’t. Learn to read a paper map and orient by sun or compass. Disasters knock out satellites and towers.
  2. Driving Without Headlights
    In some situations—like avoiding attention—you need to drive stealth. Use low-beam techniques, moonlight, or red LED cabin lights to see without becoming a target.
  3. Emergency Braking on Wet Roads
    ABS systems don’t work well on washed-out roads. Practice controlled skids and pump-braking on gravel and mud.
  4. Water-Crossing Tactics
    If water is less than two feet deep, drive slowly and steadily. Never stop in the water. Avoid fast-moving current at all costs.
  5. Changing a Tire in the Dark
    Do it blindfolded if you must. You won’t always have daylight—or time.
  6. Driving With One Tire Flat
    Practice limp-driving to safety. Know how far your vehicle can go on a flat before the rim gives.
  7. Hand Signals and Silent Communication
    If radios fail and you’re traveling in a convoy, hand signals are gold.
  8. Fuel Rationing and Efficiency Driving
    Use coasting, skip-shifting, and low-RPM driving to conserve every drop.
  9. Jumpstarting Without Cables
    Push start if you drive manual, or use a rope-tow method with another vehicle.
  10. Vehicle Armor on the Fly
    Sheet metal, wood, or even filled sandbags can turn your SUV into a rolling bunker if civil unrest breaks out.
  11. Improvised Chains and Traction Aids
    Zip ties, paracord, or even floor mats can help you escape a muddy trap.
  12. Hotwiring Older Vehicles
    Not for fun—sometimes you’ll find an abandoned ride that could save your life. Know how to start older, non-chip-key vehicles in an emergency.
  13. Low-Visibility Convoy Movement
    If dust or rain limits visibility, tail light discipline and spacing keeps your team together.
  14. Driving with Damaged Windshields
    Pack clear plastic and duct tape—it won’t be perfect, but it’s better than shattered glass cutting you up.
  15. Escape and Evasion Driving
    Practice quick U-turns, J-turns, and ditch exits in safe conditions. These maneuvers aren’t just for movies—they save lives.

3 DIY Survival Driving Hacks When You’re Out of Gas

Let’s face it, fuel is often the first thing to go in a disaster. Every car in the county hits the pumps at once. Here’s how to stay mobile when the needle hits E.

  1. Siphoning Fuel Safely
    Keep clear tubing, a gas can, and a siphon bulb in your kit. Modern cars have anti-siphon valves, but you can still access gas from lawn mowers, boats, or older vehicles. Be discreet and respectful if scavenging.
  2. DIY Ethanol Fuel Substitute (Short-Term)
    If you’re in a bind and find moonshine or denatured alcohol, you can mix small amounts with gasoline (no more than 10-15%) to stretch your supply. Use only in emergencies—this can damage engines long-term.
  3. Emergency Bicycle Tow Rig
    Sounds crazy, but I once pulled a small SUV 3 miles with a mountain bike and pulley rig downhill in Colorado. Use paracord, a fixed rear axle, and ingenuity. This can get you from floodplain to high ground if no better options exist.

Final Thoughts from the Road

When the sky darkens over the Palmetto State, and the highways are a parking lot of desperate souls, your ability to think, drive, and adapt is what sets you apart from the herd. I’ve driven out of fires in California, through mudslides in Central America, and out of storm surge zones on Edisto Island with less than a gallon in the tank. And every time, it came down to knowing my vehicle, trusting my gut, and being prepared when no one else was.

Remember: the road may be your escape route—but it’s also a battlefield. Train accordingly.

Keep your rig clean, your tank topped, and your mind sharp.

See you out there.

Florida’s Worst Roads to Drive on During a Disaster

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn Florida, Florida's Worst RoadsLeave a comment

Survival Behind the Wheel: Navigating Florida’s Worst Roads in a Disaster

By the time you’ve spent years trekking across war-torn landscapes, mud-choked jungle trails, and the broken asphalt of post-hurricane suburbs, you begin to understand that survival isn’t just about what you carry—it’s about how you move. I’ve driven through typhoons in the Philippines, dodged flash floods in the Australian Outback, and maneuvered around collapsed bridges in post-earthquake Chile. But if you’re asking me about where driving can get particularly hairy? Florida. And it’s not just the weather—it’s the roads.

When a natural disaster hits the Sunshine State—whether it’s a hurricane, flood, or wildfire—certain roads turn from simple concrete ribbons into traps. And if you’re not ready for what’s coming, they’ll become your graveyard.

Here’s how to avoid that fate.

Florida’s Worst Roads in a Natural Disaster

Before you worry about how to drive out, know where not to drive.

  1. I-95 during evacuation: This coastal artery turns into a parking lot. One stalled vehicle in floodwaters? You’re stuck for hours, possibly days.
  2. Overseas Highway (US-1 to the Keys): A breathtaking ride under normal conditions—but a deathtrap in hurricanes. One way in, one way out.
  3. Alligator Alley (I-75 through the Everglades): Beautiful isolation… until you need gas, or help. Flooding here turns the road into an endless water trap.
  4. US-41 (Tamiami Trail): A narrow two-laner threading through wetlands. Zero margin for error when storm surge hits.
  5. SR 60 through central Florida: Often flooded after heavy rains or hurricane runoff. Notoriously slow to clear due to terrain and minimal drainage.
  6. SR A1A along the coast: Gorgeous—until it’s not. Constantly battered by storm surges and erosion.
  7. US-27 through Lake Okeechobee region: Flat, low-lying, and flood-prone. Add in evacuees and this road can leave you stranded mid-state.
  8. I-4 corridor (Tampa to Daytona): Urban chaos meets inland flooding. Major chokepoints in Polk and Seminole counties.
  9. SR 528 (Beachline Expressway): Limited alternate routes, gets flooded in hurricanes. Space Coast evacuees? They’ll all be here.
  10. I-10 through the Panhandle: Vulnerable to falling trees, storm surge, and closure after major winds or tornadoes.

15 Survival Driving Skills for Disaster Scenarios

Now, you want to get out alive? Here’s what I’ve learned the hard way:

  1. Float Test Awareness: Know your vehicle’s float point. Two feet of water can sweep a car. If you feel buoyant, back off or find higher ground.
  2. Off-Road Pivot Maneuver: Practice switching from asphalt to dirt or grass shoulder without losing control—essential when traffic halts.
  3. Flood Water Estimation: Use road signs, fence posts, or your own tire for scale. Water clarity can mislead. Don’t trust it—test with a stick.
  4. Spot Weak Infrastructure: Avoid bridges with visible cracks or that “bouncing” sensation. Disaster stress can collapse older spans.
  5. Drive-by Refueling: Know how to siphon (legally and ethically in emergencies) or pour from a jerry can without removing the funnel.
  6. Wind Drift Correction: High winds, especially from hurricanes or tornado bands, can push your vehicle laterally. Adjust your grip and alignment.
  7. Low-Gear Control: In waterlogged or muddy conditions, drive in low gear to avoid stalling and maintain traction.
  8. Headlight Morse: Learn basic signal codes. A three-flash sequence can signal “need help.” Five flashes rapidly? Emergency.
  9. Silent Coasting: If you’re low on fuel, kill the engine on slopes or decline to conserve power. Just maintain control and don’t lose steering.
  10. Situational Reversing: Know how to back up using mirrors in narrow paths. In the woods or alleys, this may save you when forward isn’t an option.
  11. Stealth Movement: At night or in high-risk areas, drive without headlights using night-vision or in convoy with light discipline.
  12. Trunk Tool Packing: Balance your tools to avoid rear-heavy swaying. A well-packed trunk can make maneuvering easier in panic stops.
  13. Two-Wheel Deactivation: Know how to disable traction control temporarily in older vehicles for off-road driving.
  14. CB and Scanner Use: Know local emergency and trucker channels. Cell service fails, radios don’t.
  15. “Dead Engine” Towing: Practice towing or being towed without power steering or brakes. You may need to push a car out of the road yourself.

3 DIY Gas Hacks When You Run Out

When the pumps go dry and you’re 30 miles from safety, these tricks can mean the difference between walking and driving:

  1. Propane to Gasoline Transfer (for emergencies only)
    If you’re carrying a propane tank (like from a grill), you can use a propane conversion kit to adapt certain engines—especially older carbureted ones—to run on propane in a pinch. It’s rough, not efficient, and should only be done if you have the knowledge or guide to follow.
  2. Fuel Line Siphon from Abandoned Vehicles
    Carry a siphon hose with a one-way valve. Look for stranded cars in safe locations. Check the fuel cap—some modern cars have anti-siphon tech, but older ones can still give you 1–2 gallons.
  3. Alcohol Fuel Mix
    In extreme cases, small amounts of isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) can be mixed with gasoline if your tank is bone-dry. Up to 10% mix is tolerable in some engines, though this risks damage over time. Only do this in a life-or-death scenario.

Driving Smart Is Surviving

Most people think survival means having a bug-out bag and a shotgun. They forget that mobility is often your best weapon. Knowing how to drive like your life depends on it—because one day, it might—is a skillset worth cultivating.

I’ve driven on roads where the asphalt bubbled from heat, where palm trees flew like missiles, and where GPS showed nothing but a void. In every case, it wasn’t luck that got me through—it was preparation, instinct, and the knowledge that sometimes, the only way out is through.

So prep your rig, learn your routes, know when to floor it and when to walk away.

Because in Florida’s next big one, the road won’t forgive your ignorance.

Surviving South Carolina: Your Guide to Preparing for the Worst Natural Disasters

On By The.Daily.ChristianIn South Carolina Survival Preppers, South Dakota Survival PreppersLeave a comment

As a survival prepper living in South Carolina, I’ve learned to take the unpredictable nature of our state’s weather seriously. From hurricanes to flooding to the occasional tornado, it’s a constant reminder that Mother Nature can be both beautiful and deadly. Prepping isn’t just about collecting gear; it’s about understanding the threats and putting strategies in place to protect yourself and your family. For South Carolinians, it’s about being ready for the worst, no matter when it strikes. Here’s what you need to know to survive and thrive during the state’s worst natural disasters.

Hurricanes in South Carolina

One of the biggest threats to residents of South Carolina is hurricanes. These monstrous storms are not only a risk along the coast but also inland, especially when they dump torrential rains and cause massive flooding. As someone who lives in the Lowcountry, I’ve experienced firsthand the devastation these storms can cause. You can’t control the weather, but you can control how you prepare.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO SURVIVE A FAMINE

For hurricane season, which runs from June to November, it’s vital to have a comprehensive disaster plan in place. First, make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit with enough food and water to last at least 72 hours. Don’t forget non-perishable foods, a can opener, and batteries for flashlights. A portable power bank to keep your phone charged is a must—communication is critical during these times.

Another thing you must consider is evacuation. Know your evacuation routes, and if you live in a flood-prone area, have a plan to leave early. Don’t wait for the last minute. Hurricanes move fast, and evacuation orders can come with little notice. I’ve seen roads become impassable due to downed trees, and gas stations can quickly run out of fuel. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full and have extra gas cans if possible.

Lastly, secure your home. Install storm shutters, reinforce doors, and check your roof for vulnerabilities. I’ve spent a few evenings reinforcing windows and ensuring the gutters are clear of debris—small steps that can make a big difference in protecting your home.

Flooding in South Carolina

Flooding is a significant risk for South Carolina, especially with our low-lying coastal areas and numerous rivers. While hurricanes can certainly contribute to flooding, you don’t need a hurricane for floodwaters to rise. Heavy rainfall, especially after a few days of consistent storms, can overwhelm the landscape. Flash floods are particularly dangerous because they can strike with little warning.

When it comes to prepping for flooding, there’s no such thing as being too prepared. Start by checking if your property is in a flood zone. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider installing sump pumps or French drains to divert water away from your home. Elevating electrical appliances, utilities, and valuables above potential flood levels is essential. I know people who have elevated their HVAC units to avoid water damage, and it’s a strategy I recommend.

In addition to these physical precautions, you need to be able to respond quickly when floods strike. A good rule of thumb is to have a set of waterproof bags to store important documents, such as insurance papers and IDs. Consider a portable, battery-powered radio or a weather radio with an alert system to stay informed about incoming storms and potential flash floods.

Tornadoes in South Carolina

While tornadoes aren’t as common in South Carolina as they are in places like Oklahoma, they’re still a real threat. Our state can experience severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, especially during the spring and fall months. These storms can form quickly and without warning, so it’s important to have a plan in place.

If you live in an area susceptible to tornadoes, make sure you know the safest areas in your home. Basements or interior rooms on the lowest floor, away from windows, are the best places to shelter. Have a “go-bag” ready with essentials like a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and a whistle in case you’re trapped and need to signal for help.

Be sure to invest in a reliable weather alert system or download an app on your phone that can warn you of impending storms. I also recommend having a sturdy helmet or padded headgear on hand to protect your head in case of flying debris.

Severe Thunderstorms

South Carolina is no stranger to severe thunderstorms. These storms often bring high winds, heavy rainfall, and hail. They can knock down trees, cause power outages, and create dangerous driving conditions. If you’re caught outside, the most dangerous hazard is the risk of falling branches or flying debris. The best way to prepare for these storms is to know when they’re coming and stay indoors during the worst of it.

Before a storm hits, trim trees and remove any loose items from your yard. High winds can turn anything into a projectile. Make sure your home is protected by reinforcing your roof and windows and securing loose shutters or screens. If a power outage occurs, keep flashlights, lanterns, and batteries in a designated, easily accessible place. Keep a portable power bank charged to maintain phone communication and access to emergency alerts.

Wildfires

Though not as common as in some Western states, wildfires have started to pose a growing risk to areas of South Carolina, especially in forested or rural regions. Drought conditions, combined with high winds, can turn even a small spark into a raging wildfire. If you live near wooded areas, you’ll want to take steps to prevent fires from reaching your home.

Creating defensible space around your home is a crucial strategy. Clear brush, leaves, and debris from your property, and keep firewood and other flammable materials away from the home. Installing fire-resistant materials on your roof and siding can also help protect against the spread of fire. Always stay aware of burn bans in your area, and be cautious when using grills or outdoor fires during dry spells.

10 Survival Prepper Tips for South Carolina Natural Disasters

  1. Create a Family Emergency Plan: Know where to meet, how to contact each other, and what routes to take during evacuation.
  2. Stock Up on Water: Have at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days in case of a disaster.
  3. Keep a “Go-Bag” Ready: A well-stocked emergency kit is crucial. Include medical supplies, non-perishable food, and a flashlight.
  4. Maintain a Weather Radio: Stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts and warnings, even when the power goes out.
  5. Fortify Your Home: Install storm shutters, reinforce doors, and ensure your roof and windows are secure.
  6. Plan for Pets: Make sure you have food, water, and other supplies for your pets in case of evacuation.
  7. Have Cash On Hand: In case of power outages or bank closures, cash can be essential for purchasing necessities.
  8. Be Prepared for Power Outages: Keep extra batteries, a generator, and an alternative light source for extended outages.
  9. Stay Informed: Download apps or sign up for weather alerts to stay on top of emergency situations.
  10. Learn First Aid and CPR: Knowing basic life-saving skills can be invaluable during emergencies.

By keeping these survival tips in mind and preparing yourself for South Carolina’s unique threats, you’ll be ready for whatever nature throws your way. Stay safe, stay smart, and always be prepared!