In this episode, we delve into the high-stakes world of emergency management with Anna McRay. As the Assistant Director of Emergency Management for New Hanover County, Anna shoulders the responsibility of safeguarding lives and property during crises. Located in North Carolina, New Hanover’s coastal territory presents many challenges - experiencing hurricanes and floods over the years, and over 1,600 tornadoes since 1950. We explore how her team coordinates efforts across cities, counties, and state agencies, and even with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), when needed.

Anna’s passion for protecting her community shines through. She discusses the rewards and hurdles of emergency management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. From disaster planning to rapid response, her leadership exemplifies the spirit of “It takes a village.”

Tune in as we unravel the intricate web of emergency preparedness, resilience, and community support. Whether you’re a seasoned emergency management professional or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes work, this episode promises valuable insights. Give it a listen!

Emergency Management | New Hanover County, NC (nhcgov.com)

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Hurricanes, heavy storms, tornadoes, floods, and similar disasters can lead to problems with a variety of insects and other creepy crawlies. With two broods of cicadas emerging and bugs in the news we talk with Paul Bello -entomologist extraordinaire. Paul has been battling bugs and creepy crawlies for decades. As the rains and flood waters abate, these pests become unwelcome guests in and around our homes and disrupt the response and recovery to the event. It’s fascinating how nature’s smallest creatures can become such significant challenges.

Paul’s insights are invaluable for dealing with these post event pest issues and his stories provide both practical advice and a touch of humor - some of these insects can be very persistent and invasive…but, hey, don’t let that “bug” you. Listen on!

Paul J. Bello ACE, BCE, MBA Author, Consultant, Speaker, & Educator (pjbpestconsultant.com)

Pest Problems After Storms and Other Disasters | NC State Extension (ncsu.edu)

2024 cicada map: Emergence updates; where to find Brood XIII, XIX (usatoday.com)

Samaritan’s Purse is an international, nondenominational, evangelical Christian disaster relief organization. Founded in 1970, it provides aid to people in need across the globe. Following the example of the Good Samaritan as found in the Bible, the organization provides assistance in crisis areas throughout the world. After a disaster they help with immediate needs as well as long-term recovery assistance. This humble and dedicated group partners with local and state officials to get the right help in the right place.

Today we are joined by Bruce Poss. Bruce is the Incident Response Manager for US Disaster Relief at Samaritan’s Purse discusses details about this non-profit organization’s response and recovery efforts as well as some of the international projects. Join me as Bruce shares some of the heart warming stories that make Bruce and all of Samaritan’s Purse Weather Heroes.

Samaritan’s Purse Web Site