In conjunction with the beginning of Atlantic Hurricane Season today, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) announced a series of online resources for the Commonwealth’s residents to deepen their awareness of and prepare for the impacts of tropical storms and hurricanes. Residents are encouraged to go online, make a plan, and stay informed about storms that may emerge this season.
“With severe weather events occurring more frequently due to our changing climate, it’s more important than ever that Massachusetts is prepared to respond before, during and after emergency weather situations like hurricanes,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration has a host of helpful resources available, and we encourage everyone to go online, make a plan and stay informed about potential storms to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”
“History shows that regardless of where you are in Massachusetts – on the coast or inland – a tropical storm or hurricane can have significant impacts on your area,” said MEMA Acting Director Dawn Brantley. “Ensuring Massachusetts communities are prepared for hurricane season requires immense collaboration among emergency management partners at the state and local levels, as well as participation from all residents to prioritize personal preparedness.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) seasonal outlook predicts near-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this year, but it only takes one storm to cause significant impacts.
The beginning of hurricane season is a timely reminder for all residents to prepare for the effects of a hurricane by learning if you live or work in a hurricane evacuation zone, developing an emergency plan that reflects your local conditions, building an emergency kit to meet your household needs, and staying informed before, during, and after the storm. If you have a disability or care for someone who does, it may require extra planning to handle an emergency.
Steps to Prepare
Know Your Evacuation Zone –
Visit www.mass.gov/knowyourzone to learn if you live or work in a hurricane evacuation zone. If you live in an area that may flood and may need assistance evacuating, plan with family, neighbors, and friends who may be able to assist, and contact your local public safety officials to make them aware of your needs.
Make an Emergency Plan –
A plan should address how your family would communicate, evacuate, and shelter in place if needed. Be sure to account for the needs of all your family members, including seniors, children, individuals with access and functional needs, and pets: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/make-a-family-emergency-plan. If you receive medical treatment or home health care services, work with your medical provider to determine how to maintain care and service if you are unable to leave your home or have to evacuate.
Build an Emergency Kit –
Build an emergency kit that will sustain your household for three to five days without power. For tips on what to include, visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/build-an-emergency-kit
Stay Informed –
Every family should have multiple methods for receiving emergency alerts. Learn more about different types of alerting and information tools, including the Emergency Alert System, Wireless Emergency Alerts, NOAA Weather Radio, social and traditional news media, Mass 2-1-1 and local notification systems: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/be-informed-and-receive-emergency-alerts
MEMA will share preparedness and safety information throughout hurricane season. For more resources, visit the Hurricane Safety Tips section of MEMA’s website at https://www.mass.gov/mema/hurricanes.
Source: MEMA
