City plans hurricane preparedness drill with realistic scenarios and Vegetation Amnesty Days

The City of West Palm Beach is gearing up for hurricane season with its annual Vegetation Amnesty Days, running from April 28 to May 9, 2025. This initiative encourages residents to prepare their lawns and clear debris to help keep storm drains clear and reduce flooding risks during storms.

During a recent government meeting, officials emphasized the importance of proper yard maintenance ahead of the hurricane season. Residents are advised to bag grass clippings and place larger branches at the curb in manageable sizes—no longer than four feet and no thicker than two inches in diameter. This will facilitate easier collection by city crews and prevent potential damage during pickup.

In addition to the Vegetation Amnesty Days, the city is preparing for its annual hurricane drill on May 15. This event will involve multiple city departments working together to simulate various storm scenarios, ensuring that teams and equipment are ready for any emergencies. The drill will feature realistic elements, including wrecked cars and staged power line failures, to provide a comprehensive training experience for emergency responders.

City officials highlighted the significance of these preparations, noting that they aim to enhance the community's resilience against hurricanes. By encouraging residents to participate in the Vegetation Amnesty Days and ensuring city services are well-prepared, West Palm Beach is taking proactive steps to safeguard its residents and infrastructure as the hurricane season approaches.