Friday, May 27, 2011

2011 Hurricane Season Update

Since the 2011 hurricane season will begin June 1, the college administration has been making preparations for any impending storms.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasters say an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season is most likely this year, with the likelihood of three to six major hurricanes and 18 named tropical storms. Because there is always a possibility of a storm striking the Mississippi Gulf Coast, preparation is vital.
All college employees should take a moment to review their department’s severe-weather policies and plans. Additionally, please review the college’s Hurricane Communication Plan at http://www.mgccc.edu/Documents/hurricane_plan_booklet.pdf.
Remember that communications will play a key role during any emergency. We will endeavor to keep you informed through the Connect-ED system, the website and the college’s toll-free number. To ensure notification through Connect-ED, visit Web Services on the college’s website, log in to the secure area and update your emergency contact information at the bottom, left-hand side of the page under Personal Information.
Students and employees can also call the college’s toll-free phone number, 1-866-735-1122, for periodic college updates during severe-weather situations.
If evacuation becomes necessary, students and employees who evacuate will find important updates through the local television, radio and newspapers as well as the Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s statewide network of radio and television affiliates. MPB’s radio frequencies are listed on all state evacuation signs.
The college administration will continue to monitor evolving conditions in the tropics and will issue updates throughout the summer and fall.
Please be aware of the following important hurricane preparedness sites:
The website will offer periodic updates throughout the 2011 hurricane season.