Every boater knows that when a storm is brewing, a “hurricane hole” is the safest place to hunker down for protection.

“My family and I would tow our boat from the Raleigh area to Topsail Island for a day on the water,” recalled Mike Edwards, owner of Hurricane Hole Storage. “After a long day, I would tow the boat home, then wash and clean it before putting it away.”

Edwards, a retired electrical engineer originally from South Africa, previously lived in London, where he designed automatic metering systems for utility companies. In 2014, he and his wife, Sue, a medical professional, moved from the Raleigh area to the greater Topsail area.

“I was bored,” Edwards said with a laugh.

That boredom soon turned into a business idea.

Drawing on both his engineering background and his experience as a boater, Edwards developed Hurricane Hole Storage with one goal: to create a secure and convenient haven for boats, recreational vehicles and valuable equipment.

Remembering the long drives hauling his boat back and forth, Edwards designed two storage facilities on U.S. Highway 17 in Holly Ridge, engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds up to 150 mph.

“I asked myself what features I would want,” he said.

The answer shaped every aspect of the property. Edwards prioritized convenience, security and storm protection. The facility includes washdown stations, a holding tank pump-out station and secure space to store tackle and gear.

“Many insurance agencies require boaters and RV owners to move equipment at least five miles inland for storm coverage,” Edwards said. “That’s why we located the units on U.S. 17.”

The Hurricane Hole Storage facility offers 200 units with roll-up doors measuring 12 and 14 feet high. Each door is equipped with wind locks for added storm protection. Units feature full ceiling-height partitions between bays, LED lighting and 20-amp, 120-volt AC power.

Individual bays range from 30 to 55 feet deep. Units begin at 30 by 12 feet and extend to 55 by 40 feet, accommodating everything from small recreational vehicles to large boats and commercial equipment.

Tenants have 24-hour access, 365 days a year. Edwards said security was a priority in the design, incorporating enhanced lighting and comprehensive security measures throughout the property.

The second Hurricane Hole Storage facility opened in January and is offering grand opening specials and discounts at both locations, 597 Hwy 17 South and 8759 Wilmington Hwy (US Hwy 17) in Holly Ridge.

For Edwards, the facility represents more than a storage solution — it is peace of mind. Built by a boater who understands the time, investment, and memories tied to life on the water, Hurricane Hole Storage was designed to protect not just equipment, but the lifestyle that comes with it. For more information, call 910-541-2626 or visit www.hurricaneholestorage.com

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