Hurricane Press Conference 6-1-22

Summary

On June 1st, Miami-Dade County officials welcomed the start of the 2022 hurricane season with a preparedness briefing. They thanked key partners like the American Red Cross and the National Weather Service and introduced the new Assistant Director for Emergency Management, Pete Gomez. The season is expected to be intense, with 14-21 named storms predicted. Residents were urged to stay informed, be storm-ready, make a plan, and get vaccinated. The county is monitoring weather systems and preparing for potential impacts, emphasizing the importance of early preparation and community resilience.

Takeaways

• 🌪️ The speech marks the first day of hurricane season (June 1st) and emphasizes preparation for emergencies like hurricanes and pandemics.
• 👥 Special thanks were given to key partners including the American Red Cross, Greater Miami Convention, Florida Power & Light, and the National Weather Service.
• 📅 The 2022 hurricane season is expected to be highly active, running from June 1st to November 30th, with forecasts predicting 14 to 21 named storms.
• 📲 Residents are encouraged to stay informed via Miami-Dade's website, Ready Miami-Dade app, and social media channels for storm updates.
• 🌧️ The remnants of Hurricane Agatha are already expected to bring heavy rain, emphasizing the urgency to prepare for the hurricane season.
• 📦 Key steps for hurricane preparedness include: staying informed, being storm-ready, making a plan, and getting vaccinated against COVID-19.
• 🏠 Residents should know if they live in a flood zone and have an evacuation plan in place. Over half of Miami-Dade County lives in storm surge evacuation zones.
• 🐶 Miami-Dade has pet-friendly evacuation centers, and residents should bring supplies for their pets in case of evacuation.
• 💉 Vaccination against COVID-19 is recommended as part of hurricane preparedness, especially for those who may need to shelter with others.
• 📞 Emergency services and evacuation assistance are available through Miami-Dade County, including a special evacuation assistance program for residents with medical needs.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of the press conference held on June 1st?

The press conference is held to mark the first day of the 2022 hurricane season and to emphasize the importance of preparation and readiness for potential hurricanes and other emergencies.

Who are the key stakeholders mentioned in the press conference for hurricane preparation?

Key stakeholders include the Miami-Dade County Emergency Management team, Chairman Jose Pepe Diaz, Commissioner Rebecca Sosa, the American Red Cross, Florida Power and Light, the National Weather Service, and other partners.

What are the four key steps residents should take to prepare for the hurricane season?

The four key steps are: 1) Stay informed, 2) Be storm ready, 3) Make a plan, and 4) Get vaccinated.

What actions can residents take to be storm ready?

Residents should trim their trees, prepare storm shutters, have enough food and supplies for 72 hours, and avoid buying bottled water, as Miami-Dade County water is safe to store in containers for emergencies.

How can residents stay informed before, during, and after a storm?

Residents can sign up for Miami-Dade Alerts, download the Ready Miami-Dade app, follow the county’s Twitter and Facebook accounts, or call the 311 emergency line for up-to-date information.

What should residents do if they live in a storm surge or flood zone?

Residents in storm surge zones should know their evacuation zone, prepare to leave early if needed, and run from the water (evacuate) while hiding from the wind (seek shelter).

What special provisions are available for residents with medical or evacuation needs?

Residents with medical or special evacuation needs are encouraged to sign up for the Special Emergency Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP) through the Miami-Dade County website or by calling 311.

What is the recommendation regarding COVID-19 vaccination during hurricane season?

Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 to protect themselves, especially if they need to evacuate or shelter with extended family.

What precautions will be in place at evacuation centers during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic?

Evacuation centers will allow for social distancing, provide masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, and wipes. Residents are encouraged to bring additional supplies, and everyone will be screened for symptoms upon entry.

What advice was given regarding price gouging during emergencies?

Miami-Dade Police will work with the state attorney's office to take a zero-tolerance approach toward price gouging on items such as gas and food. Residents are encouraged to report instances of price gouging by calling 305-471-TIPS.