The University of North Carolina at Pembroke Office of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) is dedicated to the protection of human life and our campus environment. EH&S acknowledges the close relationship between the environment, work, and human health and safety.

We are committed to preventing the loss of human potential caused by fatalities, injuries, illness, and disabilities on the job and in the campus community.

June 1st, 2023

Hurricanes 

Hurricanes are violent storms which can bring intense winds, heavy rain, a storm surge, floods, coastal erosion, landslides, and tornadoes. While it is difficult to predict the exact time, place, and force of hurricanes, residents of the Atlantic and Gulf Coast states must be prepared. The season for hurricanes runs from June through November, with most hurricanes occurring mid-August to late October. Each season, on average, six hurricanes form in the Atlantic Ocean of which two become major hurricanes.

Know Your Risk and What To Do 

• Contact your local emergency management office to learn about evacuation routes and emergency plans. 
• Get additional information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (visit fema.gov for information), Ready Campaign (Ready.gov), the American Red Cross (redcross.org) and NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (nhc.noaa.gov). 
• Buy flood insurance. Anyone can get flooded, even if you don’t live in a designated flood zone. There is a 30-day waiting period before activation of flood insurance policies. Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Ask your insurance agent or go to www.floodsmart.gov. 
• Inquire about emergency plans and procedures at your child’s school and at your workplace. 
• Make a family disaster plan that includes out-of-town contacts and locations to reunite if you become separated. Be sure everyone knows home, work and cell phone numbers, and how to call 9-1-1. 
• Assemble a disaster supplies kit with food, water, medical supplies, battery-powered radio and NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, batteries, flashlights, and other items that will allow you to get by for 3 days after a hurricane hits. 
• Gather important documents such as birth and marriage certificates, social security cards, passports, wills, deeds, and financial and insurance records. Store them in a fire and flood safe location or safe deposit box.