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This year, forecasters expect up to 17 tropical storms and hurricanes by the end of the season on Nov. 30.

Hurricane Preparedness Week May 20-26

For more information about hurricane hazards and how to stay safe during the storms, visit the National Hurricane Awareness Week web site.

 

Hurricane Warning: Are You Prepared for Severe Weather?

This hurricane season, in addition to checking your radio, flashlight and supply of batteries, be sure to review Duke's severe weather/emergency conditions policy to understand your role in helping to ensure the protection, safety and health of all patients, students, staff and faculty.

Although hurricane season doesn't officially begin until June 1, one storm has already been named — subtropical storm Andrea. According to experts, the number and intensity of hurricanes have increased in recent years due to global warming. This year, forecasters expect up to 17 tropical storms and hurricanes by the end of the season on Nov. 30.

As hurricane season begins, take a moment to review Duke's severe weather/emergency conditions policy. Duke must maintain essential services and operations during such times. Essential services include hospital operations, keeping students safe, operating research facilities, and providing necessary support and administrative services.

During times of severe weather or emergency conditions, some positions require the onsite presence of staff. To ensure continuous operations during these conditions, all jobs are categorized into one of three service levels:

• Essential Service: employees are required to report to or remain at work.
• Reserve service: employees will be assigned at the time of severe weather.
• Delayed service: employees will not report to or remain at work in the case of severe weather.

Supervisors should confirm the service category assignment, review the department's plan for severe weather and emergency conditions, and explain work expectations based on the assigned service designation for the job with all staff. Additional information about this policy is available at at the Severe Weather web site.

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