Governor McDonnell Urges Citizens to Get Ready for Hurricane Season

Press Release

Virginia's families should take action now in order to get ready for hurricane season, which begins June 1 and can be accompanied by significant flooding. To emphasize the importance of emergency preparation, Governor Bob McDonnell has recognized May 22-28 as Hurricane and Flooding Preparedness Week.

"For the last several weeks in Virginia we have seen first-hand how extreme weather events can take lives, as well as destroy homes, disrupt businesses and burden families," said Governor McDonnell. "As we recover from the historic outbreak of tornadoes, we need to be especially mindful that hurricane and flooding season is rapidly approaching. I urge every citizen of the Commonwealth to take the appropriate steps to protect themselves and their property."

Individuals and families should have a kit consisting of essential supplies that includes at a minimum: three days' of bottled water and non-perishable food; a battery-powered and/or hand-crank radio, including extra batteries, to hear emergency information; and a written family emergency plan. For more information on making a family plan as well as putting together a supply kit, go to www.Ready.Virginia.gov.

"We can never be sure of the kind of damage extreme weather events can cause," said Governor McDonnell. "That is why it is so important that we are ready for hurricane and flooding season. As history has demonstrated, we don't have to get a direct hit from a hurricane for people to suffer. Past years have brought us heavy rains and slow moving tropical systems that have caused extensive damage and loss of life."

To learn more about getting ready for hurricane season and flooding, visit www.ReadyVirginia.gov.

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