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FEMA Working Closely with Federal, State and Tribal Partners to Coordinate Hurricane Response Efforts

Residents Encouraged to Follow Instructions of Local Officials

WASHINGTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urges residents to follow instructions from state, tribal and local officials as it continues to coordinate requests for assistance from states and tribes affected by Hurricane Matthew with its federal partners at the Regional Response Coordination Center in Atlanta and the National Response Coordination Center at FEMA Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Yesterday, President Barack Obama declared emergencies for requested counties in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, authorizing FEMA to provide support and resources necessary to save lives and protect property.

Experts at the National Weather Service say the powerful storm is expected to turn toward the north-northwest later this morning and will be close to or over the East Coast of Florida through Friday night. Maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 120 miles-per-hour with higher gusts. Rainfall totals of six to 12 inches are expected, with isolated amounts up to 15 inches being forecast along east and central Florida, Georgia and South Carolina through Saturday. Significant storm surge and flooding is also expected in those areas.

“You can rebuild a home, but you cannot rebuild a life,” said FEMA Administrator W. Craig Fugate. “Now is the time to make sure you are listening to your local officials and following their instructions explicitly.”

If you live in areas affected by Hurricane Matthew or know someone in those areas, social media sites like Facebook or Twitter are good way to stay in touch. The American Red Cross has a tool called Safe and Well to keep track of friends and loved ones during and after the storm.

FEMA support efforts are on-going and include six Urban Search and Rescue task force teams in Florida, and five task force teams in Georgia to assist with anticipated search and rescue efforts. In addition, an Incident Support Team also is deployed to Georgia to coordinate rescue efforts across these teams.

Incident Support Bases are staffed in Albany, Ga. and Fort Bragg, N.C., to pre-position resources closer to potentially affected areas, should affected states or tribes request them. Today there are more than 476,000 liters of water and more than 536,000 meals, as well as tens of thousands of cots and blankets on site.

Shelters are open across the potentially impacted states. Download the FEMA mobile app for shelter information, disaster resources, weather alerts, and safety tips, in English and in Spanish. The app provides a customizable checklist of emergency supplies, maps of open shelters and recovery centers, disaster survival tips, and weather alerts from the National Weather Service. The app also enables users to receive push notifications reminding them to take important steps to prepare their homes and families for disasters.

Safety and Preparedness Tips

Hurricane Matthew has the potential for life-threatening rain, wind and storm surge. Those in affected areas should follow the direction of their state, tribal or local officials.

There is the potential for flooding with this storm. Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous and almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas, at bridges and at highway dips. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. If you encounter flood waters, remember – turn around, don’t drown.

Get to know the terms that are used to identify severe weather and discuss with your family what to do if a watch or warning is issued:

For a hurricane:

A Hurricane Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 74 miles-per-hour poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Hurricane Warning is issued when sustained winds of 74 miles-per-hour or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

For a tropical storm:

A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 39 miles-per-hour or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when sustained winds of 39 miles-per-hour or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less.

For flooding:

A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding.
A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

To learn more about what to do before, during and after severe weather, visit www.Ready.gov.

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FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from and mitigate all hazards.

Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

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FEMA Working Closely with Federal, State and Tribal Partners to Coordinate Hurricane Response Efforts

FEMA Urges Residents to Take Evacuation Orders Seriously Ahead of Hurricane Matthew

WASHINGTON – As evacuations begin today in some coastal counties, with more likely to follow, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is urging residents to listen closely to state and local officials’ guidance and to take seriously any directions to evacuate.

FEMA is working with its federal and state partners at the Regional Response Coordination Centers in Atlanta and Philadelphia to help coordinate any requests for assistance from states potentially affected by Hurricane Matthew.

According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Matthew is moving northward with sustained winds of 125 miles per hour through the northern Caribbean, and it could impact Florida and the U.S. East Coast this week. Hurricane and tropical storm watches and warnings have been issued for Florida’s coastline. Heavy rain between four to ten inches, winds and significant wave heights are expected to impact the Florida Keys, coastal Southeast and the Carolinas beginning on Thursday through the weekend. Evacuations for some coastal counties are beginning today.

“Residents and visitors should take evacuation orders seriously and heed the directions of state, local and tribal officials,” said FEMA Administrator W. Craig Fugate. “This is a major hurricane that has the potential to cause significant harm to life and property. If instructed to evacuate, don’t wait for the next forecast, evacuate.”

FEMA liaisons are deployed to the state emergency operation centers in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina to assist state responses, as needed in advance of the storm. FEMA stands ready to assist additional states and tribes, as needed and requested.

FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMAT) are deployed to emergency operations centers (EOC) in Florida and North Carolina. Additional IMATs are scheduled to arrive at the EOCs in South Carolina and Virginia today to support preparation activities and ensure there are no unmet needs. Additional teams from around the country are ready to deploy to affected states and tribes as necessary.

Four Incident Support Bases have been identified in Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, to pre-position commodities and resources closer to potentially affected areas.

Shelters are beginning to open across the potentially impacted states. Download the FEMA mobile app for disaster resources, weather alerts, and safety tips, in English and in Spanish. The app provides a customizable checklist of emergency supplies, maps of open shelters and recovery centers, disaster survival tips, and weather alerts from the National Weather Service. The app also enables users to receive push notifications reminding them to take important steps to prepare their homes and families for disasters.

Safety and Preparedness Tips

Hurricane Matthew has potential for life-threatening rain, wind and storm surge. Those in potentially affected areas should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have a plan for their pets.

Individuals should visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn these and other preparedness tips for tropical storms or hurricanes. If the storm is expected to affect your area, know your evacuation zone and follow the direction of local or tribal officials if an evacuation is ordered for your area.

If you will be evacuating, contact family and friends to let them know you are leaving and where you’re going; and take your pets with you or pre-identify a pet-friendly safe location like a pet friendly hotel or shelter.

Create a household inventory: For insurance purposes, be sure to keep a written and visual (i.e., videotaped or photographed) record of all major household items and valuables, even those stored in basements, attics or garages. Create files that include serial numbers and store receipts for major appliances and electronics. Have jewelry and artwork appraised. These documents are critically important when filing insurance claims.

Other steps to take right now to protect property are:

Make sure your sump pump is working, and then install a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure. If you already have a battery backup, install fresh batteries. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
Clear debris from gutters and downspouts. Clear storm drains in the street or near your home of leaves and debris.
Move electronics, valuables, and important documents to a safe place.
Roll up area rugs, where possible, and store them on higher floors or elevations. This will reduce the chances of rugs getting wet and growing mold.
Shut off electrical service at the main breaker if the electrical system and outlets will be under water.
If you incur expenses due to protecting your home in preparation for coming storms and flooding – such as purchasing sandbags – you may be able to file a claim against your National Flood Insurance Program flood policy for reimbursement. Call your insurance agent to discuss your coverage and learn more.

Get to know the terms that are used to identify severe weather and discuss with your family what to do if a watch or warning is issued:

For a hurricane:

A Hurricane Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 74 MPH poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Hurricane Warning is issued when sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

For a tropical storm:

A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 39 MPH or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when sustained winds of 39 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less.

For flooding:

A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding.
A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

To learn more about what to do before, during and after severe weather, visit www.Ready.gov.

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Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Continue reading:

FEMA Urges Residents to Take Evacuation Orders Seriously Ahead of Hurricane Matthew

FEMA Urges Residents to Know Their Evacuation Routes, Take Direction from State, Local, and Tribal Officials Ahead of Potential Landfall by Hurricane…

WASHINGTON – FEMA, through its regional offices in Atlanta, Georgia, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is monitoring Hurricane Matthew and remains in close coordination with state emergency managers and tribal officials, as well as our federal partners at the National Weather Service forecast offices. FEMA is urging residents in potentially affected states – from Florida to the Mid-Atlantic – to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes now, prepare, and to take direction from state, local, and tribal officials.

Matthew is a major hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Scale with sustained winds near 145 miles per hour (MPH) and while some fluctuations in intensity are possible during the next couple of days, this storm is expected to remain a powerful hurricane. According to the National Weather Service, the current forecast models for impact to the United States vary greatly from direct landfall to remaining offshore along the East Coast. Direct hurricane impacts are possible in Florida later this week.

“The time to prepare is now. Residents in potentially affected areas should learn their evacuation routes and monitor weather conditions,” said FEMA Administrator W. Craig Fugate. “Storm tracks can change quickly and unexpectedly. Residents and visitors in areas from Florida through the mid-Atlantic in potentially at risk areas, including inland areas, should continue to monitor local radio or TV stations for updated emergency information. Follow instructions of state, local and tribal officials, and make sure you’re taking steps to prepare your home, family or business.”

FEMA liaisons are already deployed to the state emergency operation centers in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina to assist state responses, as needed. FEMA has additional personnel deployed in Florida and an Incident Management Assistance Team (IMAT) is at the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center. Today, FEMA also deployed additional IMATs to Atlanta to support preparation activities and ensure there are no unmet needs. Additional teams from around the country are ready to deploy to affected states and tribes as necessary.

There have been no requests for federal assistance at this time, however FEMA stands ready to assist additional states and tribes, as needed and requested.

At all times, FEMA maintains commodities, including millions of liters of water, millions of meals and hundreds of thousands of blankets, strategically located at distribution centers throughout the United States and its territories. Two Incident Support Bases have been identified in Albany, Georgia, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to pre-position commodities and resources closer to potentially affected areas.

FEMA encourages residents in potentially affected states to download the FEMA mobile app for disaster resources, weather alerts, and safety tips, in English and in Spanish. The app provides a customizable checklist of emergency supplies, maps of open shelters and recovery centers, disaster survival tips, and weather alerts from the National Weather Service. The app also enables users to receive push notifications reminding them to take important steps to prepare their homes and families for disasters.

Safety and Preparedness Tips

Other steps to take right now to protect property are:

Make sure your sump pump is working, and then install a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure. If you already have a battery backup, install fresh batteries. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
Clear debris from gutters and downspouts. Clear storm drains in the street or near your home of leaves and debris.
Move electronics, valuables, and important documents to a safe place.
Roll up area rugs, where possible, and store them on higher floors or elevations. This will reduce the chances of rugs getting wet and growing mold.
Shut off electrical service at the main breaker if the electrical system and outlets will be under water.
If you incur expenses due to protecting your home in preparation for coming storms and flooding – such as purchasing sandbags – you may be able to file a claim against your National Flood Insurance Program flood policy for reimbursement. Call your insurance agent to discuss your coverage and learn more.

Get to know the terms that are used to identify severe weather and discuss with your family what to do if a watch or warning is issued:

For a hurricane:

A Hurricane Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 74 MPH poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Hurricane Warning is issued when sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

For a tropical storm:

A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 39 MPH or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when sustained winds of 39 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less.

For flooding:

A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding.
A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

To learn more about what to do before, during and after severe weather, visit www.Ready.gov.

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Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

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FEMA Urges Residents to Know Their Evacuation Routes, Take Direction from State, Local, and Tribal Officials Ahead of Potential Landfall by Hurricane…

Mandatory Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System

FEMA, FCC, in Coordination with State Broadcasters and Emergency Managers, test the EAS

WASHINGTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a mandatory nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on Wednesday, September 28, at 2:20 p.m. EDT to verify the delivery and broadcast, and assess the readiness for distribution of the national level test message.

The EAS test is made available to radio, television, cable, and direct broadcast satellite systems and is scheduled to last approximately one minute. The message of the test will be similar to the regular monthly test message of EAS, normally heard and seen by the public: “This is a national test of the Emergency Alert System. This is only a test.”

Significant coordination and regional testing has been conducted with the broadcast community and emergency managers in coordination and preparation for this EAS national test. The test is intended to ensure public safety officials have the methods and systems that will deliver urgent alerts and warnings to the public in times of an emergency or disaster. Periodic testing of public alert and warning systems is also a way to assess the operational readiness of the infrastructure required for the distribution of a national message and determine what technological improvements need to be addressed.

Receiving preparedness tips and timely information about weather conditions or other emergency events can make all the difference in knowing when to take action to be safe. FEMA and partners are working to ensure you can receive alerts and warnings quickly through several different technologies no matter where you are–at home, at school, at work, or in the community. The FEMA App, which can be downloaded on both Android and Apple devices, is one way to ensure you receive both preparedness tips and weather alerts of your choice. Download the FEMA App today.

More information on the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) is available at www.ready.gov/alerts.

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Background: In 2007, FEMA began modernizing the nation’s public alert and warning system by integrating new technologies into the existing alert systems. The new system, known as the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) became operational in 2011. Today, IPAWS supports over 700 local, state, tribal, and federal users through a standardized message format. IPAWS enables public safety alerting authorities such as emergency managers, police and fire departments to send the same alert and warning message over multiple communication pathways at the same time to citizens in harm’s way, helping to save lives. For more information on FEMA’s IPAWS, go to: www.fema.gov/ipaws. For more preparedness information, go to www.ready.gov.

Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

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Mandatory Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System

FEMA, State Broadcasters and Emergency Managers to Test the Emergency Alert System in Six New England States

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with state, local, and tribal emergency managers and state broadcasters’ associations, will conduct a test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on Wednesday, September 16, 2015, in six New England states. The test will begin at 2:20 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), and will last approximately one minute.

The voluntary EAS test will be seen and heard over many radio, television and cable stations in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The EAS test might also be seen and heard in upper New York State if the public normally receives any broadcasts from nearby New England stations. The word “national” will be added to the test message: “This is a national test of the Emergency Alert System. This is only a test.”

“The EAS test message will be sent to radio and television stations using a National Periodic Test code that sounds and appears like the regular monthly EAS tests conducted by state officials and broadcasters,” said Roger Stone, Acting Assistant Administrator of FEMA’s National Continuity Programs. “FEMA is working to specify a method for conducting periodic nationwide EAS tests using the National Periodic Test code in the near future.”

The test is designed to have limited impact on the public, with only minor disruptions of radio and television programs that normally occur when broadcasters regularly test EAS in their area. There is no Federal Commissions Commission regulatory liability for stations that choose not to participate.

The test will assess the operational readiness of FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) infrastructure that will distribute the national-level EAS test message to radio, television and cable operations from origination to reception by public. It will verify the functionality of EAS stations to receive and broadcast a national test message. The test requires that radio and television stations make a minor configuration change to their station EAS equipment to receive and process the National Periodic Test code message from the IPAWS system.

In 2007, FEMA began modernizing the nation’s public alert and warning system by integrating new technologies into existing alert systems. The new system is known to broadcasters and local alerting officials as the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System or IPAWS. IPAWS connects public safety officials, such as emergency managers, police and fire departments to multiple communications channels to send alerts to the public when a disaster or other imminent danger occurs.

More information on the Public Alert and Warning System and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) is available at www.fema.gov/ipaws or www.ready.gov/alerts. For more information on IPAWS, visit www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/31814.

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Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

FEMA, State Broadcasters and Emergency Managers to Test the Emergency Alert System in Six New England States

FEMA: Follow Evacuation Orders; Residents and Visitors Urged to Follow Direction of Local Officials

WASHINGTON — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through its National Response Coordination Center in Washington and its regional offices in Atlanta, Philadelphia, New York and Boston, and in coordination with the National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center, is continuing to monitor Hurricane Arthur.

FEMA remains in close contact with emergency management partners in potentially affected states, and the agency encourages those in Arthur’s path to follow any evacuation orders given by local officials. FEMA also urges residents and visitors in potentially affected areas to monitor the storm closely and take steps now to be prepared in advance of severe weather.

“As the holiday approaches, we continue to warn residents and visitors to be aware of evacuation routes in case an evacuation is ordered by state and local officials”, said Craig Fugate, FEMA Administrator. “If an evacuation order is given by local officials – leave.”

Yesterday, FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate spoke with North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory and Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry about preparedness efforts and to ensure there were no unmet needs.

FEMA has liaisons in the emergency operations centers in North Carolina and South Carolina along with an Incident Management Assistance Team (IMAT) in North Carolina to coordinate with state, tribal, and local officials, should support be requested or needed. FEMA is currently working with its federal partners at the Regional Response Coordination Center in Atlanta and Boston and has also activated its National Response Coordination Center in Washington D.C.

Mobile Emergency Response Support (MERS) personnel and equipment have been placed on alert to provide emergency management partners with secure and non-secure voice, video and information services in support of emergency response communications.

According to the National Weather Service, a Hurricane Warning is in effect for portions of North Carolina coast as Hurricane Arthur moves northward. Also, a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch are in effect for parts of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia.

Hurricane conditions are expected within portions of the hurricane warning area by tonight. The tropical storm conditions are expected to spread northward in the tropical storm and hurricane warning areas later today and tonight. The National Hurricane Center is forecasting that Hurricane Arthur may become a Category 2 storm when it passes over or near the North Carolina coast. Visit hurricanes.gov and weather.gov for the latest storm track and local forecasts and warnings.

As the first hurricane of the Atlantic hurricane season, Hurricane Arthur serves as a reminder for residents in areas prone to tropical storms and hurricanes to refresh their emergency kits and review family emergency plans. Those who do not have an emergency kit or family plan can learn about steps to take now to prepare for severe weather at ready.gov.

At all times, FEMA maintains commodities, including millions of liters of water, millions of meals and hundreds of thousands of blankets, strategically located at distribution centers throughout the United States, and they are available to state, tribal and local partners if needed and requested.

Safety and Preparedness Tips

Residents and visitors in potentially affected areas should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have a plan for their pets. Individuals should visit ready.gov or listo.gov to learn these and other preparedness tips for tropical storms.
Know your evacuation zone and be sure to follow the direction of state, tribal and local officials if an evacuation is ordered for your area.
Storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a hurricane. It poses a significant threat for drowning and can occur before, during, or after the center of a storm passes through an area. Storm surge can sometimes cut off evacuation routes, so do not delay leaving if an evacuation is ordered for your area.
Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous and almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas, at bridges and at highway dips. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
If you encounter flood waters, remember – turn around, don’t drown.
Hurricanes have the potential for tornado formation. If you are under a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately in the center of a small interior room (closet, interior hallway) on the lowest level of a sturdy building. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
Get to know the terms that are used to identify severe weather and discuss with your family what to do if a watch or warning is issued.

For a Hurricane:

A Hurricane Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 74 MPH poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Hurricane Warning is issued when sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

For a Tropical Storm:

A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 39 MPH or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when sustained winds of 39 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less.

For coastal flooding:

A Coastal Flood Advisory is issued when minor or nuisance coastal flooding is occurring or imminent.
A Coastal Flood Watch is issued when moderate to major coastal flooding is possible.
A Coastal Flood Warning is issued when moderate to major coastal flooding is occurring or imminent.

More safety tips on hurricanes and tropical storms can be found at ready.gov/hurricanes.

Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

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FEMA: Follow Evacuation Orders; Residents and Visitors Urged to Follow Direction of Local Officials

FEMA Continues To Urge Preparedness Ahead Of Tropical Storm Arthur; Residents and Visitors Urged to Follow Direction of Local Officials

WASHINGTON — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), through its National Watch Center in Washington and its regional offices in Atlanta and Philadelphia and in coordination with the National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center, is continuing to monitor the conditions of Tropical Storm Arthur off the east coast of Florida. FEMA remains in close contact with state emergency management partners in potentially affected states.

FEMA urges residents and visitors in potentially affected areas to closely monitor the storm and take steps now to be prepared in advance of severe weather. Most importantly, everyone should follow the direction of their state, tribal and local officials.

FEMA has deployed liaisons to the emergency operations centers in North Carolina and South Carolina along with an Incident Management Assistance Team (IMAT) to North Carolina to coordinate with local officials, should support be requested or needed. FEMA’s regional office in Atlanta is in contact with its emergency management partners in Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina. FEMA also plans to activate its National Response Coordination Center in Washington D.C. on Thursday.

According to the National Weather Service, a Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the entire coast of North Carolina and there is a Hurricane Watch from Bogue Inlet to Oregon Inlet, North Carolina and the Pamlico Sound. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for South Carolina from the Little River Inlet to the South Santee River.

A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm force winds may begin within 36 hours. A Hurricane or Tropical Storm Watch means that those conditions are possible within the watch area, in this case within 48 hours. Tropical Storm Arthur is forecast to intensify and become a hurricane by Friday. Visit hurricanes.gov and weather.gov for the latest storm track and local forecasts and warnings.

As the first tropical storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm Arthur serves as a reminder for residents in areas prone to tropical storms and hurricanes to refresh their emergency kits and review family emergency plans. If you do not have an emergency kit or family plan, or to learn about steps you can take now to prepare your family for severe weather, visit ready.gov.

At all times, FEMA maintains commodities, including millions of liters of water, millions of meals and hundreds of thousands of blankets, strategically located at distribution centers throughout the United States, that are available to state, tribal and local partners if needed and requested.

Safety and Preparedness Tips

As the first tropical storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm Arthur serves as a reminder for residents in areas prone to tropical storms and hurricanes to refresh their emergency kits and review family plans. If you do not have an emergency kit or family plan, or to learn about steps you can take now to prepare your family for severe weather, visit www.ready.gov.
Residents and visitors in potentially affected areas should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have a plan for their pets. Individuals should visit ready.gov or listo.gov to learn these and other preparedness tips for tropical storms.
Know your evacuation zone and be sure to follow the direction of state, tribal and local officials if an evacuation is ordered for your area.
Storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a hurricane. It poses a significant threat for drowning and can occur before, during, or after the center of a storm passes through an area. Storm surge can sometimes cut off evacuation routes, so do not delay leaving if an evacuation is ordered for your area.
Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous and almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas, at bridges and at highway dips. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
If you encounter flood waters, remember – turn around, don’t drown.
Tropical Storms have the potential for tornado formation. If you are under a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately in the center of a small interior room (closet, interior hallway) on the lowest level of a sturdy building. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
Get to know the terms that are used to identify severe weather and discuss with your family what to do if a watch or warning is issued.

For a Hurricane:

A Hurricane Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 74 MPH poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Hurricane Warning is issued when sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

For a Tropical Storm:

A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when tropical cyclone containing winds of at least 39 MPH or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours.
A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when sustained winds of 39 MPH or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less.

For coastal flooding:

A Coastal Flood Watch is issued when moderate to major coastal flooding is possible.
A Coastal Flood Warning is issued when moderate to major coastal flooding is occurring or imminent.
A Coastal Flood Advisory is issued when minor or nuisance coastal flooding is occurring or imminent.
More safety tips on hurricanes and tropical storms can be found at ready.gov/hurricanes.

Taken from:

FEMA Continues To Urge Preparedness Ahead Of Tropical Storm Arthur; Residents and Visitors Urged to Follow Direction of Local Officials

Be “Alert Savvy” to Stay Safe in Severe Weather

CHICAGO – Understanding severe weather watches and warningswill help to keep you and your family safe during a disaster. FEMA and the National Weather Service (NWS) encourage everyone to learn this life-saving information and act if extreme weather threatens their area.

NWS alerts that are used to warn of severe weather, flood and tornado hazards include:

• Severe Thunderstorm Watch – Tells you when and where severe thunderstorms are likely to occur. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

• Severe Thunderstorm Warning – Issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm. Gather family members and pets and take shelter immediately. Have your emergency supply kit ready and continue to monitor your NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for more information.

• Tornado Watch – Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

• Tornado Warning – A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.

• Flood Watch – Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

• Flash Flood Watch – Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

• Flood Warning – Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

• Flash Flood Warning – A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately. Do not attempt to drive into flooded areas or walk through moving water.

Be aware that sirens are designed as an outdoor warning system only to alert those who are outside that something dangerous is approaching. A NOAA Weather Radio can be critical to ensure you’re alerted to dangerous weather when indoors.

“The National Weather Service provides accurate and timely warnings and advisories, but they are only effective if people receive them, understand their risk, and take the correct action to protect themselves,” said Teri Schwein, Acting Central Region Director, National Weather Service. “Everyone should make time to prepare themselves before severe weather strikes by signing up for local weather emergency alerts, understanding NWS warnings and developing an emergency action plan.”

“Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) sent to a mobile device are also used to notify individuals of potentially dangerous weather conditions,” said Andrew Velasquez, regional administrator, FEMA Region V. “If you have a WEA-capable phone and your wireless carrier participates in the program, this will enable you to be immediately aware of potentially life-threatening emergencies.”

You can find more information about WEA at www.fema.gov/wireless-emergency-alerts, and for valuable tips to help you prepare for severe weather visit www.ready.gov/severe-weatheror download the free FEMA app, available for your Android, Apple or Blackberry device.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. Follow FEMA online at twitter.com/femaregion5, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at twitter.com/craigatfema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Media Contact:Cassie Ringsdorf, 312-408-4455

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Original post:

Be “Alert Savvy” to Stay Safe in Severe Weather

FEMA Urges Residents Across the South and Southeast to Prepare for Severe Winter Weather

Residents Should Follow the Direction of Local Officials

WASHINGTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is closely coordinating with states potentially impacted by severe winter weather across the southern United States. FEMA, through its regional offices in Atlanta, Philadelphia, New York, and Denton TX, and its National Watch Center in Washington, D.C. as well as its federal partners, including the National Weather Service, continues to closely monitor the severe winter weather currently impacting the South and Southeast, and forecasted to move up the Eastern Seaboard.

Today, President Obama declared an emergency for 45 counties in the State of Georgia, at the request of Georgia Governor Nathan Neal, authorizing FEMA to support the state in its efforts to respond to the storm. FEMA has deployed a Federal Coordinating Officer and a liaison to support the state emergency operations center in Atlanta.

FEMA continues to be in close, continuing contact with state, tribal and local partners in potentially impacted areas and stands ready to support its partners, if requested and needed. FEMA has also enhanced staffing at its Regional Watch Center in Atlanta and at its National Watch Center in Washington D.C.

According to the National Weather Service, a major winter storm will impact locations from Texas to the Southeast today before it moves up the Eastern Seaboard on Wednesday. Residents along the path of the storm can find their local forecast at www.weather.gov.

When natural disasters like severe weather strike, the first responders are local emergency and public works personnel, volunteers, humanitarian organizations, and private organizations who provide emergency assistance required to protect the public’s health and safety and to meet immediate human needs.

FEMA encourages residents and visitors in the track of the storms to follow the instructions of state, local and tribal officials, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio and their local news for updates and directions provided by local officials. Residents can find trusted sources for weather and preparedness information via Twitter on FEMA’s Social Hub here: http://www.fema.gov/social-hub

Wireless Emergency Alerts are currently being sent directly to many cell phones on participating wireless carrier networks. These alerts are sent by public safety officials such as the National Weather Service about imminent threats like severe weather. They look like a text message and show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. More information on Wireless Emergency Alerts is available at http://www.ready.gov/alerts. Individuals can check with their cellular carrier to determine if their phone or wireless device is WEA-enabled.

Preparing for Severe Winter Weather

FEMA encourages all Americans to visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn more about how to be better prepared and how to protect your family during emergencies.

Get to know the terms that are used to identify winter storm hazards and discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued.

A Blizzard Warning is issued for winter storms when the following conditions are expected to last for at least three hours: winds of at least 35 miles per hour with considerable snowfall that reduces visibility to ¼ of a mile or less.
A Winter Weather Advisory means cold, ice and snow are expected.
A Winter Storm Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two.
A Winter Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon.
An Ice Storm Warning is when freezing rain produces a significant and possibly damaging accumulation of ice.
Freezing Rain creates a coating of ice on roads and walkways.
Sleet is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and become slippery.

Avoid traveling by car, but if you must, make sure you have an emergency supply kit in the trunk of your car. FEMA encourages families to maintain an emergency supply kit both at home and in the car to help prepare for winter power outages and icy or impassable roads.

An emergency supply kit should include a three-day supply of food and water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and extra flashlights and batteries. Thoroughly check and update your family’s emergency supply kit and add the following supplies in preparation for winter weather:

Rock salt to melt ice on walkways;
Sand to improve traction;
Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment; and
Adequate clothing and blankets to help keep you warm.

Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan. Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government, and ensure your home and car are prepared for the winter weather.

For more information and winter preparedness tips, please visit: www.ready.gov/winter-weather or www.listo.gov to find out how you can prepare your family for winter storms and other disasters.

Residents Should Follow the Direction of Local Officials

Preparing for Severe Winter Weather

FEMA encourages all Americans to visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn more about how to be better prepared and how to protect your family during emergencies.

Get to know the terms that are used to identify winter storm hazards and discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued.

A Blizzard Warning is issued for winter storms when the following conditions are expected to last for at least three hours: winds of at least 35 miles per hour with considerable snowfall that reduces visibility to ¼ of a mile or less.
A Winter Weather Advisory means cold, ice and snow are expected.
A Winter Storm Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two.
A Winter Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon.
An Ice Storm Warning is when freezing rain produces a significant and possibly damaging accumulation of ice.
Freezing Rain creates a coating of ice on roads and walkways.
Sleet is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and become slippery.

Rock salt to melt ice on walkways;
Sand to improve traction;
Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment; and
Adequate clothing and blankets to help keep you warm.

Visit source –

FEMA Urges Residents Across the South and Southeast to Prepare for Severe Winter Weather

Heading To The All-Star Game, The College World Series, A Concert? Be Tornado Ready

Release Date: June 15, 2012
Release Number: R7-12-008

» 2012 Region VII News Releases

Kansas City, Mo. — As you and your family make plans to go to baseball’s All-Star Game 2012 in Kansas City, the College World Series in Omaha, attend a concert, an outdoor event, or go on a road trip this summer, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) wants you to know what you should do if a tornado threatens.

“It’s automatic for parents—you step into a crowded shopping mall, or athletic stadium and you check to make sure your children are safely by your side. Your very next thought should be ‘what if?’ What if there’s a need to evacuate this building, or take shelter quickly inside it?” said Regional Administrator Beth Freeman, of FEMA Region VII. “Preparing before severe weather threatens is always the wisest thing to do, but it can be tricky when you’re out in public or in unfamiliar areas. We want to see people consider their options and know what to do during any emergency like it’s second nature.”

BE PREPARED TO TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION

If you’re inside a building (e.g. residence, athletic stadium, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building) the goal is to find the best available refuge area. In the event of a tornado warning, to go the safest refuge area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. Put on sturdy shoes. Do not open windows.

If you plan to attend an event in an outdoor stadium or arena, consider how you would evacuate or take shelter in the event of a tornado. It’s best to plan ahead and when possible learn what emergency plans are in place.

If you’re driving or outdoors with no shelter immediately drive to the closest sturdy shelter IF, and only if, it’s five or less minutes away. If your vehicle is hit by flying debris while you are driving, pull over and park. Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows; cover your head with your hands and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.

If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, like into a ditch, leave your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands. Do not get under an overpass or bridge because it is a very dangerous place to be during a tornado. You are safer in a low, flat location. Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries. Also, never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck.

Understand alert and warning systems and stay informed

Learn about weather alerts so you can make good decisions regardless of where you are when severe weather threatens. A tornado Watch means existing weather conditions could create a tornado. However, when a tornado Warning is issued, a tornado has been seen on the ground or Doppler radar indicates there is a strong possibility one may soon form in the area under the Warning. When a tornado warning is issued, seek safe shelter immediately.

If at home or in your car, listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information. During severe weather, keep the weather radio with you at all times, including while sheltering. Sign up on www.weather.gov to receive email or text message alerts for severe weather. NOAA has more information about choosing a weather radio at www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/nwrrcvr.htm.

Understanding Outdoor Sirens

Outdoor sirens may warn of an immediate tornado threat, but they’re only meant to alert people outdoors. The sirens in your community may work differently than those in a neighboring town, so it’s important to become familiar with the local siren system. Speak with local emergency management officials to determine:

When do they turn the siren on?
If the siren has different tones, what are they and what do they mean?
When the siren stops, does it mean the threat is over?
What does the emergency manager recommend doing when the siren sounds, or for each broadcasted tone?
When does the siren system get tested?

Once you understand your local siren system, teach everyone in the family and then practice getting to the best available refuge area. That way the whole family knows what to do, even if you’re not together during an emergency. During any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.

Have a plan and supplies

According to the National Weather Service, no geographic location, including downtown urban areas, around lakes, rivers or mountains, are safe from tornados. Those outdoors or living in mobile homes are most vulnerable, but everyone should have a plan and prepare.

Begin preparing by building an emergency supply kit (www.ready.gov/build-a-kit), making a family emergency plan (www.ready.gov/make-a-plan) and purchasing a NOAA weather radio. Keep an emergency supply kit at home, work, and in your car, and be sure everyone in the family understands the emergency plan.

Once you have an emergency supply kit, check it monthly to be sure the water is fresh, medications and batteries are still usable and it is tailored to meet your family’s needs that month.

Factors that should be considered for both the supply kit and the family emergency plan could include the needs of family members of different ages, dietary needs, and disabilities or access and functional needs, including assistive technology equipment. Most or all people have both specific personal needs as well as resources that can assist others. Working with your family and neighbors, you can make a supply kit and plan to fit existing needs.

It’s also important to test your family emergency plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes and you’ll want to find them as soon as the crisis is over.

Get step-by-step instructions on how to prepare your family and/or business online at www.ready.gov. You may also download the FEMA application (www.fema.gov/help/social_media.shtm) for disaster safety tips, interactive lists for storing your emergency kit and emergency meeting location information for your emergency plan.

Follow www.twitter.com/femaregion7 (even if you don’t have a Twitter account) for more tornado and severe weather safety tips all week.

Visit FEMA Region VII online at www.fema.gov/region7. Follow FEMA online at www.twitter.com/femaregion7, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Last Modified: Friday, 15-Jun-2012 16:02:51

Taken from:

Heading To The All-Star Game, The College World Series, A Concert? Be Tornado Ready