The National Weather Service (NWS) has designated San Diego County a “StormReady® Community” and presented its formal certification to the County Board of Supervisors Tuesday morning, Dec. 8 in Board chambers. The award recognizes the County for being better prepared for rapidly changing weather patterns and severe weather through advanced planning, education and awareness. In addition, County residents will be eligible for reduced flood insurance rates. The designation remains in effect for three years.
Chairwoman Dianne Jacob received the plaque and certificate from Jim Purpura, the meteorologist-in-charge with the National Weather Service in San Diego.
“San Diego County has worked hard to implement measures to prepare residents for severe weather and we’re thrilled to receive the ‘StormReady’ distinction,” Chairwoman Jacob said. “We’ve ramped up public education campaigns and notification procedures to ensure that public safety is priority one.”
To achieve StormReady® status, the County of San Diego had to meet specific standards set by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including developing safety plans for severe weather, communications infrastructure and protocols, public awareness campaigns, and safety training. Public notification procedures were also implemented during weather alerts to ensure public safety.
For more information about the StormReady® program and its impact, please contact Cid Tesoro in the County Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program at (858) 694-3672.
pictured from left: DPW Assistant Director Rich Crompton; Chairwoman Dianne Jacob; DPW meteorologist Rand Allan; Jim Purpura, meteorologist-in-charge NWS San Diego; and DPW Watershed Protection Manager Cid Tesoro Photo by Matthew Wenhardt
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