Now’s the Time to Prepare for the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season

May 3, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:                
Diane G. Papadakos, Director of Communications
City of West Palm Beach – Mayor’s Office
dpapadakos@wpb.org
561-822-1411 (TTY: 800-955-8771) 

The City of West Palm Beach Encourages Residents to Prepare for the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season 

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – As we approach the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, the City of West Palm Beach would like to remind residents of the importance of being prepared for potential storms. While we hope that this season will be uneventful, it is always best to be ready in the event of a storm. The season, a period when tropical storms and hurricanes are expected to develop in the Atlantic, runs from June 1 – Nov. 30, 2023.

The City is working diligently to prepare for potential storms and is ready to respond quickly if needed. We encourage everyone to stay informed by following local news and weather updates and to prepare ahead with an action plan.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety of West Palm Beach, and we are calling on you to prepare with us,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James. “Do not be complacent. Knowing your risk, getting prepared, and staying informed are just a few steps that you can take to get ready for hurricane season.”

Consider these hurricane tips to keep you and your loved ones safe:

• Know Your Risk: Find out how rain, wind, and water can impact where you live. This can help you start preparing now.
• Know your Evacuation Zone: You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane. Knowing what evacuation zone you live in will help you, should an evacuation order for your area be issued.
• Gather Supplies: Have enough food, water, and other supplies for every member of your family to last at least 72 hours. Consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors and prescription medications.
• Make an Emergency Plan: Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan. Complete a family communication plan.
• Stay Informed: Know where to go for trusted sources of information during a hurricane event. Visit the City’s website wpb.org for regular updates and sign up for eNotifications or the Insider Newsletter. During a hurricane, contact the City through the Mayor’s Response Hotline at (561) 822-2222 (TTY 800-955-8771). For emergencies, please dial 9-1-1.
• Check your Insurance Coverage: Review your policy, ensure you’re adequately covered, and understand exclusions. Contact your agent for any changes.
• Special Needs & Pet Shelters: You must register with Palm Beach County in advance. Please call (561) 712-6400 (TTY 561-712-6342).

For important hurricane preparedness information, including recommended supplies and links to evacuation zones, please visit wpb.org/hurricane. To call the City of West Palm Beach, please dial (561) 822-1200 (TTY: 800-955-8771).

About the City of West Palm Beach:

The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic city located on the Atlantic coast of Florida. With a rich history, a thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region, and the central city of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing, waterfront city that offers the business advantages available in the region, combined with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit us on our official website, or follow us on our social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and/or Linked-in.

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