EPA urges Southeast communities to prepare for hurricane season

The Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 1, prompting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to urge residents, utilities, businesses and local governments across the Southeast to prepare for potential hurricanes, flooding and severe weather events.

EPA Region 4 Administrator Kevin McOmber said early preparation can help reduce risks to public health, infrastructure and the environment while supporting faster recovery efforts after storms.

The agency is encouraging communities and facility operators to review emergency response plans, secure hazardous materials and implement measures to prevent chemical releases during severe weather. EPA also reminded drinking water and wastewater utilities to strengthen preparedness efforts ahead of possible storm impacts.

EPA’s hurricane preparedness guidance includes resources for protecting drinking water and wastewater systems, safely managing storm debris and reducing environmental hazards that can result from flooding and storm surge. The agency also emphasized the importance of preventing and reporting chemical spills tied to hurricane-related flooding and infrastructure damage.