Governor Releases Hurricane Preparedness Tips, Announces July 9-15, 2023 as Hurricane Preparedness Week in MA

Governor Maura Healey has proclaimed this week of July 9-15, 2023, to be "Hurricane Preparedness Week" in Massachusetts, as part of her Administration's efforts to strengthen community readiness and resiliency. This week, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) will be sharing resources with residents and municipalities regarding how to stay safe and prepare for hurricane-related hazards.

“As climate change fuels extreme weather across the country, every Massachusetts community must plan and prepare for the potential impact of tropical storms and hurricanes,” said Governor Healey. “During Hurricane Preparedness Week, I encourage residents of coastal and inland areas alike to visit MEMA’s website for preparedness information, make a plan, and stay informed about how to take care of yourself and your loved ones before, during and after a storm.”

Tips offered to Massachusetts residents by the Administration, at the beginning of Hurricane Preparedness Week are:

1. Know Your Evacuation Zone. This first piece of advice from the state may apply to Westwood area residents working in Zones A, B, and C (Boston, Cambridge, Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, Waltham and Watertown areas) which may experience flooding in a hurricane or tropical storm. Westwood and surrounding towns are not included in the Hurricane Evacuation Zones.

2. Make an Emergency Plan. Families and individuals should plan for all needs of those within the household, taking into consideration special needs of seniors, children, disabled individuals, and pets.

3. Build an Emergency Kit. The kit should be able to support your household for three to five days without power.

4. Stay Informed. Every household should have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts. The state has a 2-1-1 multi-language hotline, 24/7, for non-emergency assistance.

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