Many on island say it’s too soon for a return

As the final hours ticked down before Hilton Head reopened to all residents, those who stayed behind and weathered Hurricane Matthew said it may be too soon for a mass re-entry.

"Well, I agree that if I was off the island, I would be so anxious to get back home," said Amie Baima, owner of Skillets Cafe & Grill on Tuesday. "But knowing that there are certain areas that still don't have power and some areas just got water, I believe it's a little too soon."

The Town of Hilton Head Island announced residents will be able to return starting at 3 p.m. But many gated neighborhoods have said they will restrict access because of dangerous conditions that persist.

Meanwhile, emergency crews continued to work across the island Tuesday afternoon, using chainsaws to clear trees. Businesses removed boards from windows and gas stations reopened.

This story was originally published October 11, 2016 at 1:57 PM with the headline "Many on island say it’s too soon for a return."