Hurricane Irma Information and Preparation

Hurricane Irma continues on its path through the Caribbean and toward Florida, but weather experts agree that it is still too early to predict whether the storm will have a significant effect on Greensboro or North Carolina. Even so, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has declared a state of emergency to encourage residents and businesses to prepare for a potential emergency situation. 

In keeping with Gov. Cooper's guidance, now is the time to create an emergency preparedness kit with items you may need in the event of a significant storm impact. See the guidance below on what emergency management experts suggest should be included in your kit.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to monitor weather reports for more information as this weather event unfolds. Please also monitor your university e-mail account and the university home page for further guidance. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available. 

What is the current weather status for Greensboro and Guilford County?

There are currently no active watches, warnings or advisories in effect. Monitor the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s site for potential updates. Monitor this and other local news media weather sites for up-to-the-minute information on Hurricane Irma’s path and whether it will affect this area.

What to do during a natural disaster situation?

Some of the key things to remember during a natural disaster such has a hurricane or other storms are to be prepared and know what to do before the disaster strikes.

Make a Plan

It is important to plan ahead and talk about what you will do before, during and after an emergency. You need to talk about how will you get to a safe place, get in touch with family once you are there, and how you are going to get back.

Your plan should contain:

• Phone numbers of a pre-assigned contact person for family members or close friends to call.
• How to be safe if you stay in your home during an emergency.
• Where to go in case of flooding or other emergency in your building.

Mold your plans for your needs. Think about creating a group of friends, family or neighbors to help each other in emergencies. Talk how that group can help each other connect, care for each other’s needs.

Build a Kit

An emergency supplies kit is simply a collection of items you may need in an emergency. You likely have most of the items already, so it’s a matter of gathering them together.

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days
• Food – non-perishable and canned food supply for 3 to 7 days
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries
• Cell phone with charger
• First aid kit 
• Flashlight and extra batteries