notes: Hurricane Sandy updates and situation reports available on their website, Facebook page and Twitter: FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/VAemergency -> Hurricane Sandy updates and situation reports available on their website, Facebook page and Twitter: FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/VAemergency TWITTER - https://twitter.com/vdem

notes: 2011 HURRICANE LEE - NEWS - # Governor McDonnell Declares State of Emergency in Response to Flooding As a Result of Remnants of Tropical Storm Lee Governor's Office (09.9.11) 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - NEWS - # Low-interest loans available to help with Hurricane Irene damage [09.23.11] Storm Surge Inundation Maps & City websites - http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge ================= FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/VAemergency -> Hurricane Sandy updates and situation reports available on their website, Facebook page and Twitter: FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/VAemergency
mission: http://www.vdem.state.va.us/ Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities. -> http://www.vdem.state.va.us/ Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities.

notes: 2011 HURRICANE LEE - NEWS - # Governor McDonnell Declares State of Emergency in Response to Flooding As a Result of Remnants of Tropical Storm Lee Governor's Office (09.9.11) 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - NEWS - # Low-interest loans available to help with Hurricane Irene damage [09.23.11] Storm Surge Inundation Maps & City websites - http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge -> 2011 HURRICANE LEE - NEWS - # Governor McDonnell Declares State of Emergency in Response to Flooding As a Result of Remnants of Tropical Storm Lee Governor's Office (09.9.11) 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - NEWS - # Low-interest loans available to help with Hurricane Irene damage [09.23.11] Storm Surge Inundation Maps & City websites - http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge ================= FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/VAemergency
website: http://www.vdem.state.va.us/ -> http://www.vaemergency.gov/
mission: Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities. -> http://www.vdem.state.va.us/ Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities.

name: EMA, Emergency Management Agency, Virginia -> EMA, Emergency Management Agency, Virginia (VDEM)
notes: 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - Storm Surge Inundation Maps & City websites - http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge -> 2011 HURRICANE LEE - NEWS - # Governor McDonnell Declares State of Emergency in Response to Flooding As a Result of Remnants of Tropical Storm Lee Governor's Office (09.9.11) 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - NEWS - # Low-interest loans available to help with Hurricane Irene damage [09.23.11] Storm Surge Inundation Maps & City websites - http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge

notes: 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - Storm Surge Inundation Maps http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge -> 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - Storm Surge Inundation Maps & City websites - http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge

notes: -> 2011 HURRICANE IRENE - Storm Surge Inundation Maps http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stay-informed/hurricane/storm-surge

name: Emergency Management Agency, Virginia -> EMA, Emergency Management Agency, Virginia

notes: FROM THE SITE: FOR RELEASE AT WILL- Aug. 30, 2010 Virginians Need to Prepare for Hurricane Earl Videos explaining storm surge, hurricane evacuation now online RICHMOND, VA – Virginians need to prepare now for Hurricane Earl, which is forecasted to be a Category 3 or 4 hurricane as it approaches Virginia’s coast later this week. The forecasted path for Earl has changed several times so it is important for Virginians, especially those living in the Hampton Roads region, to pay close attention to the storm. Those in Hampton Roads should review their evacuation and shelter plans. Also, people should make sure they have their emergency supplies ready. "A small change in Earl's forecasted path could bring a major hurricane to Virginia," said Michael Cline, state coordinator for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. "Virginia state agencies are getting ready for the storm, and so should residents." The Commonwealth has activated the Virginia Evacuation Coordination Team for Operational Response to assess Earl’s potential impact and to take necessary actions. The Virginia Emergency Operations Center is now at Increased Readiness Condition. VDEM and the Virginia Department of Transportation have created a series of online videos to help families understand storm surge (the reason for large-scale evacuations), and how an evacuation would work. The videos are available at http://www.youtube.com/vaemergency. A list of needed emergency supplies and maps of storm surge areas and evacuation routes can be found at http://www.ReadyVirginia.gov. ->
mission: Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities. -> Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities.

main_phone: -> Switchboard Number: (804) 897-6500
mission: Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities. -> Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities.

mission: -> Disasters are going to happen despite our best efforts. Knowing how to deal with them helps to reduce loss of life and property now and in the future. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management works with local government, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide resources and expertise in four major areas. Preparedness Planning and training are key to effectively dealing with different types of disasters. VDEM develops and maintains state emergency plans as blueprints for response to a variety of scenarios and assists communities in developing localized emergency operations plans. We also offer training courses in emergency management, hazardous materials response and search and rescue to prepare local responders to effectively deal with disasters and their aftermath. Exercises and drills conducted across the state offer opportunities to put these skills into practice in a controlled setting. To assist citizens in minimizing their risks, VDEM works with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to conduct intensive annual public awareness campaigns promoting tornado, hurricane and winter weather safety. Response When citizens face an emergency situation, they call 911. When local governments need assistance in responding to a crisis, they call VDEM. The state expands staffing at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response efforts and provides status reports to the governor on existing conditions. If warranted, the governor will declare a state of emergency. In a major disaster, the state will ask for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The president may issue a disaster declaration that clears the way for federal disaster assistance. Recovery After disaster strikes, citizens are anxious to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Under a federal declaration, victims should call the FEMA at 1-800-462-9029 toll-free to register for disaster assistance. The TTY number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. A number of basic state and federal financial aid programs may be available to displaced residents in these areas. VDEM staff works with FEMA to coordinate and administer these programs. In most instances, the federal government pays 75 percent of the cost, and the state and localities cover the 25 percent share. Mitigation Emergency management goes beyond helping communities recover from a disaster. Preventive measures now can help mitigate or lessen future losses. Many repairs can incorporate steps that will reduce or eliminate potential damage. Elevation of structures in flood-prone areas and restricting beachfront development are just a few examples of loss prevention. For homeowners and businesses, flood insurance is an important protection against financial loss. VDEM works with local jurisdictions to assist them in designing effective, long-range mitigation plans to address hazards specific to their communities.

notes: -> FROM THE SITE: FOR RELEASE AT WILL- Aug. 30, 2010 Virginians Need to Prepare for Hurricane Earl Videos explaining storm surge, hurricane evacuation now online RICHMOND, VA – Virginians need to prepare now for Hurricane Earl, which is forecasted to be a Category 3 or 4 hurricane as it approaches Virginia’s coast later this week. The forecasted path for Earl has changed several times so it is important for Virginians, especially those living in the Hampton Roads region, to pay close attention to the storm. Those in Hampton Roads should review their evacuation and shelter plans. Also, people should make sure they have their emergency supplies ready. "A small change in Earl's forecasted path could bring a major hurricane to Virginia," said Michael Cline, state coordinator for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. "Virginia state agencies are getting ready for the storm, and so should residents." The Commonwealth has activated the Virginia Evacuation Coordination Team for Operational Response to assess Earl’s potential impact and to take necessary actions. The Virginia Emergency Operations Center is now at Increased Readiness Condition. VDEM and the Virginia Department of Transportation have created a series of online videos to help families understand storm surge (the reason for large-scale evacuations), and how an evacuation would work. The videos are available at http://www.youtube.com/vaemergency. A list of needed emergency supplies and maps of storm surge areas and evacuation routes can be found at http://www.ReadyVirginia.gov.