Central Nova News

Saturday, June 1, marks the beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season. In observance of Hurricane Preparedness Week from May 5-11, the City of Alexandria is urging residents to prepare for potential emergencies.

Hurricanes and tropical storms are among the most powerful natural events, impacting both coastal and inland regions with heavy rains, strong winds, floods, and coastal storm surges. The Atlantic Coast remains vulnerable to these tropical systems and has faced hurricanes in previous years.

The city provides several tips for preparation:

Residents should assess their hurricane risk and take appropriate measures. A useful resource is the city's hurricane preparedness web page. It's important to have a plan in place for what to do if a hurricane occurs, including knowing where to go and how to contact family members.

Signing up for emergency alerts is crucial for staying informed. Residents can connect with Alexandria’s official outlets by signing up for eNews or following the Department of Transportation & Environmental Services and the Office of Emergency Management on social media.

Local officials' guidance should be followed closely along with weather forecasts from sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Homeowners are encouraged to purchase or renew flood insurance policies as standard policies do not cover flooding. It typically takes about 30 days for a policy under the National Flood Insurance Program to become effective.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency app offers weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations nationwide.

Additional resources include:

- Virginia Floodplain Management Program

- Hurricane Preparedness Guide

- When a Disaster Strikes: What to Do After an Insured Homeowners Loss (PDF)

- When a Disaster Strikes: What to Do After an Insured Commercial Loss (PDF)

- National Weather Service Hurricane Preparedness

- Ready.gov Hurricane Preparedness

- floodsmart.gov

For disability accommodations, contact Anna McClure at anna.mcclure@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3146, Virginia Relay 711.

For communication in other languages, free interpretation and translation services are available via email at LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or phone at 703.746.3960.

As Alexandria celebrates its 275th anniversary since its founding in 1749, it continues reflecting progress toward inclusivity through various events held from April through September. More information can be found at alexandriava.gov/ALX275.