Officials urge Virginians to prepare during Hurricane Preparedness Week
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia emergency officials are urging residents to prepare during Hurricane Preparedness Week ahead of the Atlantic Hurricane season.
The Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), in partnership with the National Weather Service (NWS), is observing Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Week, which runs from May 12 to May 16, advising Virginians how to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their homes and communities.
“Preparedness is the most effective way to reduce risk during hurricane season,” said State Coordinator of Emergency Management John Scrivani. “Now is the time to make a plan, restock emergency supplies, and stay informed—not when a storm is approaching.”
This week, VDEM and NWS have shared these importance steps to best prepare residents for hurricane season:
- Monday, May 12:
- Know Your Risk: Virginia officials are advising residents to understand the types of hazards in your area, especially if you live in a coastal, low-lying or flood-prone zone.
- Tuesday, May 13:
- Build an Emergency Kit: Make sure you have essential items such as food, water, medications, flashlights and important documents.
- Wednesday, May 14:
- Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Ensure you have plans for how to communicate with your family and know where to go if you need to evacuate.
- Thursday, May 15"
- Stay Informed: Sign up for local alerts, download the FEMA and VDEM mobile apps, and follow trusted sources on social media.
- Friday, May 16:
- Review Insurance Coverage: Check your homeowners, renters or flood insurance to make sure you and your families are protected.
“Storm surge, inland flooding, and high winds are real threats in the commonwealth,” said Jeff Orrock, meteorologist-in-charge at the NWS Wakefield Office. “Preparedness and early action save lives.”
Virginia officials are warning residents that this year's hurricane season is "expected to be active, with forecasters predicting an above-average number of named storms."
Hurricane Atlantic Season begins June 1.
