With a Category 5 hurricane imminent and an already active 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, AccuWeather has revised its predictions – now anticipating a higher number of major hurricanes than previously forecasted.
In recognition of September’s “National Preparedness Month” across the nation, Gov. Kay Ivey is reminding Alabamians to plan ahead.
“Alabama is no stranger to the unpredictable and sometimes harmful effects of Mother Nature,” Ivey said. “While we cannot stop a hurricane, tornado or flash flood, we can take steps to lessen their impact on our lives and better protect ourselves and our loved ones.”
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The Alabama Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommend every home have a basic emergency Go-Kit including the following:
- Water and non-perishable food to last for several days
- Cell phone with weather/news apps as well as extra cell phone battery or charger
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio capable of receiving NOAA Weather Radio alerts as well as local news broadcasts
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- A first aid kit
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Equally important, Alabamians should develop and coordinate contingency plans with family and close-by friends if there is a need to evacuate and seek shelter.
“With the leadership and support of Governor Ivey, Alabama held its first inaugural Resilience Council meeting last week,” said Alabama EMA Director Jeff Smitherman. “The council is a platform for local, state, federal, and private partners to discuss ways to better prepare Alabama’s communities to withstand events that result in harmful impacts to its citizens.”
Ivey said, “While any time before a disaster is a good time to make plans, I recommend all Alabamians prepare for emergencies now to reduce the harm they and their families could face down the road.
“Plan to be ready.”
Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270
