If your utility is in a hurricane-prone area, WaterISAC joins the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other partners in encouraging you to prepare before hurricane season officially begins on June 1.

The themes for National Hurricane Preparedness Week, which is from April 30 to May 6, are: “Know Your Risk: Water &Wind;” “Prepare Before Hurricane Season;” “Understand Forecast Information;” “Get Moving When a Storm Threatens;” “Stay Protected During Storms;” “Use Caution After Storms;” and “Take Action Today.” Clicking on the themes at NOAA’s website provides access to useful information and resources, such as a description of the hazards that hurricanes often bring (e.g., storm surge, flooding, and hurricane-force winds) with the first theme. While many of these resources were developed with individuals and families in mind, much of the content is still applicable and can be tailored to organizations. Moreover, organizations can disseminate these resources to their employees, helping them to be prepared and the least impacted if their area experiences a hurricane. On the topic of forecasts, WaterISAC reminds its members that even though one of the forecasts for the upcoming season predicts below-average activity, the authors emphasize it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for that community. Access the National Hurricane Preparedness Week resources at NOAA.

WaterISAC also reminds its members that next week it will conduct a 2023 Hurricane Season Preparedness webinar, the first event in a new webinar series for members – quarterly Water Sector Natural Disaster Threat Web Briefings. During this webinar, which will be held on Wednesday, May 3 from 11 am to 12 pm ET, WaterISAC will be joined by briefers who will provide important information and discuss key resources to help water and wastewater utilities increase their level of preparedness for these events. Read more and register at WaterISAC.