FEMA Administrator Visits the NOAA Gulf of Mexico Disaster Response Center
JULY 27, 2020 — On Friday, July 17, the OR&R Disaster Preparedness Program hosted the FEMA Administrator, Pete Gaynor; FEMA Region IV Administrator, Gracia Szczec; Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director, Brian Hastings; and other important partners, at the NOAA Gulf of Mexico Disaster Response Center (DRC) in Mobile, Alabama.
The purpose of the visit was to provide a briefing on preparedness initiatives and planning for this year's unique hurricane season. The briefing included an overview of the DRC capabilities, and highlighted preparedness efforts being undertaken by NOAA's National Ocean Service and National Weather Service. An office visit is rare during these times, all participants practiced good social distancing and wore face masks to ensure safety.
FEMA and regional emergency managers are critical partners to NOAA on disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Partner meetings at the DRC help to maintain interagency coordination and establish regional connections.
For further information, contact Jessica.White@noaa.gov.