The NYCHA Journal

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New York City News Safety Top Story 

National Hurricane Preparedness Week

Vincent Echavaria

Do you live or work in a hurricane evacuation zone? Are you prepared in the event of a hurricane?  

During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, observed this year from May 1 through May 7, residents should determine their hurricane evacuation risk and take any precautions to be ready for hurricane season, which begins June 1.  

In recognition of National Hurricane Preparedness Week, NYCHA’s Office of Emergency Management would like to share the below safety tips and resources, which can help keep you and your loved ones safe: 

Determine if you live in an evacuation zone. The NYCHA developments that are most vulnerable to coastal storm flooding are generally located in the Rockaways, Coney Island, Upper Manhattan, and the Lower East Side. 

  • For a detailed listing of NYC evacuation zones, call 311 (TTY: 212-504-4115) or log on to nyc.gov/oem and check the Hurricane Evacuation Zone Finder. To learn about NYCHA’s Flood Preparedness measures, click here.    

If you do live in an evacuation zone:  

  • Visit NYC.gov/knowyourzone, or call 311, for information on how to make an evacuation plan and prepare for hurricanes. Learn more about coastal storm planning here.  
  • Discuss and prepare a disaster plan with household members that outlines clear action steps. Be sure to include information on the best way to communicate and where to meet in case of an emergency. 
  • Identify friends or family living outside evacuation zones that you can stay with. If this is not an option, identify in advance the nearest evacuation center that you can go to by calling 311.  
  • Keep a “go bag” ready. A go bag is a collection of items you may need to grab in a hurry in case you have to evacuate. The bag should be easily accessible and packed in an easy-to-carry container such as a backpack.   
  • Assemble an emergency supply kit in case you are asked to shelter in place (stay at home). It should include food and water for at least three days, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a whistle, a cell phone, and personal hygiene items. 
  • If you are asked to evacuate, do so immediately!  

If you don’t live in an evacuation zone: 

  • Download the Notify NYC app to get real-time information on storm conditions and other important instructions. 
  • You should also receive information from TV and radio broadcasts, NYC.gov, or by calling 311. 

Info about pets: Make sure your disaster plan addresses what you will do with your pet in case of an evacuation. Plan to shelter your pet at a kennel or with friends or relatives outside the evacuation area. If that’s not an option, pets are allowed in evacuation centers; however, dogs must wear a leash and muzzle, and small dogs or cats must be in a cage or carrier. You must also bring proof of shots.  

To learn more about developing an emergency plan, please review this helpful guide from New York City Emergency Management. 

For more general information on coastal storms and hurricanes, click here.