The City of Raleigh announced on May 6 a set of guidelines and upcoming programs to help residents prepare for severe summer weather, which can include thunderstorms, high winds, flooding, and extreme heat. The announcement comes as the warmer months approach and the risks associated with dangerous weather increase.
Summer in Raleigh is often filled with outdoor activities but also brings potential hazards. In 2025, the United States experienced 23 major weather disasters resulting in 276 fatalities and $115 billion in damages, according to data from Climate Central. The city urges residents to be proactive by making family preparedness plans before bad weather occurs.
The National Weather Service suggests creating a plan that includes establishing a meeting place for families during emergencies and keeping contact numbers handy. It also recommends being aware of home limitations—especially if living or working in temporary or mobile structures—and having pre-identified locations for shelter during tornado warnings. Staying informed through local media reports and investing in radio receivers capable of picking up NOAA Weather Radio signals are additional steps advised by officials.
Residents are encouraged to assemble emergency kits containing food, water, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies for both home and car use. Homeowners should inspect roofs for loose materials that could become hazardous during storms, reinforce windows with storm shutters, secure outdoor items indoors before storms arrive, and install surge protectors to guard electronics against lightning strikes or power outages.
The city highlights several national awareness events including National Hurricane Preparedness Week from May 3-9 hosted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), as well as National Heat Awareness Day on May 29. A community education program focused on summer safety will take place between June 2 and August 4 at Millbrook Exchange Community Center. Free information sessions will be held most Tuesdays covering topics such as water safety, fire safety, road safety, community safe spaces, nightlife safety, trail safety, and outdoor safety—organized by the Raleigh Police Department along with other city departments.
Raleigh is home to professional sports teams including the Stanley Cup-winning Carolina Hurricanes according to the official website. The City of Raleigh focuses on delivering public services through its city manager’s office according to the official website. The city is led by an elected council supported by a manager overseeing operations across districts A through E; it has influenced local policy through ordinances such as changes made in election terms in 2024 according to the official website.
