Accomack County Emergency Management Prepares for Hurricane Aaron and Public Safety Communications

In a recent meeting of the Accomack County Board of Supervisors, officials discussed critical emergency preparedness measures in light of Hurricane Aaron, which is projected to impact the region. The meeting, led by Public Safety Director C. Ray Pruitt, provided an overview of the storm's expected effects and the county's readiness to respond.

Pruitt reported that Accomack County is currently under a tropical storm warning, with forecasts indicating tropical force winds of up to 45 miles per hour beginning later that evening and lasting for up to 72 hours. He highlighted concerns about tidal surges and coastal erosion, particularly along the oceanfront, and noted that minor to moderate flooding is anticipated, especially in lower areas of the Eastern Shore.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Sarah McCliston, Deputy Coordinator of Emergency Management, who detailed the county's emergency management framework. She explained the roles of various officials and the importance of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which guides the county's response to disasters. McCliston emphasized the need for effective communication during emergencies, noting that alerts typically originate from the National Weather Service before being disseminated by local authorities.

McCliston outlined the county's emergency communication strategies, including the use of social media and partnerships with local media outlets to ensure timely information reaches residents. She encouraged community members to sign up for alerts and familiarize themselves with their evacuation zones, which are crucial during emergencies.

The discussion also touched on the coordination between Accomack and neighboring jurisdictions, as well as the importance of pre-staging resources to ensure a swift response in the event of severe weather. The county has designated six shelters that can be activated as needed, and officials are prepared to manage sheltering and evacuation operations effectively.

As Hurricane Aaron approaches, the county remains vigilant and committed to keeping residents informed and safe. The meeting underscored the importance of preparedness and community engagement in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters. The Board of Supervisors plans to continue monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.