USGS Highlights National Preparedness Month, Emphasizing FEMA Resources for Hawaii Residents
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is observing September as National Preparedness Month, urging Hawaii residents to prepare for various natural disasters, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) emphasizes four key steps for preparedness: understanding local hazards, creating an emergency plan, assembling an emergency supply kit, and engaging with community preparedness efforts. HVO scientists closely monitor active volcanoes and communicate activity levels through the USGS Volcano Alert Level and Aviation Color Code systems. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is highlighted as a crucial resource, with its ready.gov website offering tools for household emergency planning, including evacuation strategies, communication channels, and supply checklists. Given Hawaii's isolated and rural communities, self-sufficiency during and after hazardous events is particularly important, as aid arrival can be delayed. 
