MCP urges the community to make preparations during this Hurricane Season - plan ahead, be safe.

There are a number of resources and a plethora of hurricane preparedness information on NOAA National Hurricane Center website:
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/hurricane_preparedness.html

To assist with navigating some key messaging related to this topic please see information and links provided below:

Storm Surge: Historically, storm surge is the leading cause of deaths in the United States from hurricanes. The destructive power of storm surge and large battering waves can result in large loss of life and destruction along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers, and estuaries. Watch this video to learn about storm surge and how to stay safe:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBa9bVYKLP0

Evacuating Yourself & Your Family: If you reside in an area where a hurricane evacuation order is issued, it is critical that you develop an evacuation plan which identifies where you will go and how you will get there. Visit the following link to learn more:

http://1.usa.gov/1oOcwB0

Emergency Supplies: Get ready for hurricanes and severe weather with an emergency supply kit that includes three days of food and water. Having your supplies stored in one place will give you peace of mind if you need to take shelter or evacuate. Learn more about recommended supplies @ http://www.ready.gov/kit

Communications Plan: Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance: how you will get to a safe place; how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations. Create a family communications plan using the guidance:

http://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan

Pet Preparedness: During a hurricane, you may have to evacuate to a shelter. If you are going to a public shelter it is important to understand that animals may not be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pets.

Learn more: http://www.ready.gov/caring-animals