EPA Urges Southeast to Prepare for Hurricane Season
Agency says advance planning can help protect lives, property, infrastructure and the environment as Atlantic storms approach.
The EPA is urging residents, businesses and local governments across the Southeast to prepare for Atlantic hurricane season, which began June 1. The agency said advance planning can help protect lives, property, infrastructure and the environment as storms approach.
EPA Region 4 Administrator Kevin McOmber said preparation is one of the most effective tools communities have during hurricane season. He said steps such as securing homes, safeguarding hazardous materials and strengthening emergency response plans can reduce health and environmental risks and speed recovery after a storm.
The agency said it is working with federal, state, tribal and local partners throughout hurricane-prone areas of the Southeast. EPA also reminded facility operators to prevent, minimize and report chemical releases that can result from severe weather and flooding.
EPA’s preparedness guidance covers chemical release prevention, drinking water and wastewater readiness, storm debris management and protection for communities and emergency responders. The agency said hurricanes can often be tracked days before landfall, giving facilities and communities time to implement protective measures and response procedures.
