IEMA Joins NOAA Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador Initiative
Recognizes agency’s commitment to improving preparedness for extreme weather, water and climate events

[September 19, 2014]  SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) last week joined the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador Initiative. Through the initiative, NOAA formally recognizes partners who are improving the nation’s readiness, responsiveness and overall resilience against extreme weather, water and climate events.

“Illinois is no stranger to severe weather disasters,” said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken. “As we’ve seen in disasters both here in Illinois and across the country, personal preparedness is key to saving lives. We’re pleased NOAA recognizes our commitment to promoting preparedness throughout Illinois and are proud to serve as a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador.”

As a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador, IEMA will promote preparedness messages and themes to the public and its partners; collaborate with NOAA on events and outreach opportunities; share success stories of preparedness and resiliency; and continue to serve as a change agent and leader in partnership with NOAA.
 

“IEMA shares NOAA’s vision of building a weather-ready nation,” said Louis Uccellini, Ph.D., director of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “Working together we will provide useful and relevant information to communities, businesses and individuals to help them become ready, responsive and resilient to extreme weather and water events.”

Since 2010, IEMA has promoted monthly preparedness themes through annual statewide campaigns, including severe weather preparedness each March; lightning safety awareness in June; and winter storm preparedness each November. IEMA also has a statewide personal preparedness broadcast campaign through the Illinois Broadcasters Association’s Public Education Partnership (PEP) program. The campaign, which began in 2008, features more than two dozen radio and TV spots.

In addition, the Ready Illinois website (www.Ready.Illinois.gov) is a one-stop shop for preparedness information.

[ILLINOIS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY]