New Hanover County Manager Chris Coudriet said on May 4 that the arrival of warmer weather signals an increased risk of severe storms, urging residents to prepare ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season. The comments came as part of National Hurricane Preparedness Week, which runs from May 3 to May 9.
The emphasis on readiness is important because coastal North Carolina faces a variety of emergencies beyond hurricanes, including technological and human-caused risks tied to critical infrastructure. Coudriet highlighted the work led by Jason Fuller in Emergency Management, who focuses on an all-hazards approach involving coordination with local, regional, state, and federal partners.
Fuller said his experience as a paramedic and fire official shaped his commitment to public service. “Early in my career, I was drawn to roles where the stakes were high and the impact was immediate. As a paramedic locally and throughout the region, I was able to experience what it is like to help someone directly in their time of need,” Fuller said. He added that working with various agencies has strengthened his understanding of planning and response efforts across New Hanover County.
Fuller described New Hanover County’s complex risk environment due to factors such as hurricanes, a nearby nuclear plant, one of the largest ports on the East Coast, two major colleges, and large venues. “Preparing for that kind of risk profile requires a very deliberate and layered approach,” he said. He noted that frameworks from agencies like FEMA guide how risks are assessed through hazard assessments before aligning planning efforts accordingly.
As hurricane season approaches on June 1, Fuller advised residents: “Preparedness is personal… Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or you’re new to the coast, every storm is different.” He encouraged everyone to know their risks for evacuation needs; have plans for family members and pets; build supply kits; and stay informed through trusted sources.
In addition to emergency preparedness efforts discussed by county officials, recent data shows challenges in educational readiness among local students. Of senior students taking ACT tests in science during the 2022-23 school year in New Hanover County schools districts,
30.1% were considered ready for college according to state education data. For juniors taking science tests during this period,
27.2% met college readiness benchmarks according to state education data. In reading,
43.8% of seniors were considered ready while
41.3% of juniors met standards according to state reports. Math scores showed
a college-ready rate among seniors at
29.7% and among juniors at 32%based on official statistics.
Coudriet concluded by encouraging residents: “Ahead of the 2026 hurricane season, I’d encourage everyone to heed Jason’s advice and make plans for yourself, your loved ones and your property.” Residents can visit ReadyNHC.com for more information about emergency alerts.
