As hurricane season begins, Fayetteville residents are encouraged to prepare now. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2025 season is expected to be above-normal, making early preparation even more critical for families across the region.
To help residents stay prepared, the city of Fayetteville’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has launched Ready Fay, a preparedness campaign that encourages residents to be storm ready and provides best practices for preparing for and responding to natural disasters.
“We launched the Ready Fay campaign to help our community stay informed, connected, and prepared,” said Laura Smith, emergency management coordinator in a press release. “Our goal is to make sure every resident has the tools and information they need to confidently face any storm or emergency situation.”
The City welcomed Laura Smith on March 18, 2024 as the emergency management coordinator. In her role, she works with city departments, local, state, and federal partner agencies to develop plans and procedures for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
“The best way our residents can protect themselves and their families during a disaster is by being prepared,” Smith continued in the release. “Start with a plan that includes where to meet, how to stay in touch, and how to let someone know you’re safe. Then, build an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, cash, a flashlight, a radio, batteries, and any necessary medications to last at least three days.”
Residents can visit FayettevilleNC.gov/ReadyFay to learn more about best practices, create a preparedness plan and build an emergency kit to stay ready year-round.
In addition, community members are encouraged to sign up for Cumberland Alerts at CumberlandCountyNC.gov/Alerts. This notification system allows Cumberland County Emergency Services to deliver important information about severe weather, evacuations, and protective actions directly to residents.
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