[Archived] Be Ready, Alexandria! Prepare for Hurricane Season

For Immediate Release: June 4, 2018

Hurricanes are among nature's most powerful and destructive phenomena, and the City of Alexandria urges residents and businesses to be prepared for a potential land-falling storm or hurricane. On average, six of the 12 tropical storms that form over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, or Gulf of Mexico will become hurricanes during the season (June 1 to November 30) each year. In April, the National Weather Service predicted there will be 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes in the Atlantic Basin for this season.

Hurricane Preparedness Information and Tips

The best way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property and community, is to prepare now. Make a family emergency plan and an emergency communications plan, and assemble a basic emergency kit. In addition, residents and businesses should learn if they are in an evacuation area; assess their risks; and determine if their property is vulnerable to storm surge, flooding and wind.

Know the differences between Tropical Storm and Hurricane Watches and Warnings, and how to respond.

A Tropical Storm WATCH or Hurricane WATCH means that tropical storm or hurricane conditions are possible, usually within 36 hours, in the specified area.

During a Watch:

• Monitor local radio or television stations for official emergency information and instructions.
• Make an evacuation plan to use in case you are asked to do so by local officials.
• Be sure to fuel and service vehicles.
• Make interior and exterior preparations for your property (information is available at the Virginia Department of Emergency Management  Hurricane Preparation page).

A Tropical Storm or Hurricane WARNING means that tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected, usually within 24 hours, in the specified area.

Once a Warning is declared:

• Closely monitor radio, TV, or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio for official bulletins.
• Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if told to do so!
• Turn the refrigerator to maximum cold and open only when necessary.
• Fill bathtubs and large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
• If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors. Go to an interior first-floor room such as a bathroom or closet. Close all interior doors and brace external doors.

Stay Informed

During any severe weather event, stay informed by monitoring local media for official news and information. The City will also post updates about City services and programs on alexandriava.gov and will send them to the media for broadcast. Information will also be posted to the City's social media channels. To receive emergency notifications by text or email, subscribe to the City's free Alexandria eNews service at alexandriava.gov/eNews.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, visit alexandriava.gov/Hurricane.

For media inquiries, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.