Pender County, NC - Pender County Emergency Management conducted a comprehensive activation drill today at the Emergency Operations Center. The exercise involved various county agencies and emergency services in preparation for hurricane season. Tommy Batson, the county's Director of Emergency Management, led the exercise.

"One hurricane can turn an entire year upside down," said Batson, emphasizing the critical importance of preparedness.

The drill involved a collaborative effort from various county departments and services, meticulously coordinating responsibilities and ensuring preparedness to respond swiftly and effectively in anticipation of an approaching storm.

Forecasters predict an "extremely active" 2024 hurricane season, raising the stakes for the annual drill. Steven Pfaff, meteorologist-in-charge at the National Weather Service in Wilmington, addressed participants, highlighting key information released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) at the start of the season.

Pfaff stressed the need to not rely solely on the Saffir-Simpson Scale, which measures wind speed but does not account for other hazardous factors like storm surge and rainfall flooding. He cited Hurricane Florence, which caused extensive damage despite being a Category 1 storm on the scale.

The exercise reinforced the collaborative efforts needed to ensure the safety and preparedness of Pender County residents during a hurricane. Participants practiced emergency communication protocols, logistical planning for potential evacuations, and strategic deployment of resources to support affected communities.

Residents are urged to prepare for hurricane season by creating checklists, gathering water and non-perishable food, and signing up for communication apps to stay informed during emergencies.