MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Marion County has once again been officially recognized as a StormReady Community by the National Weather Service. This recertification confirms the county’s continued commitment to public safety, emergency preparedness, and severe weather readiness.
“This StormReady program allows Marion County Division of Emergency Management to take a proactive approach to improving local hazardous weather operations,” says Preston Bowlin, director of Emergency Management for Marion County.
StormReady certification is renewed every four years and requires counties to meet rigorous federal standards. These include operating a 24-hour Emergency Operations Center (EOC), offering multiple public alert systems, maintaining weather monitoring protocols, and conducting ongoing training and emergency exercises.
What StormReady Means for You
Bowlin emphasized that the EOC functions as the central hub for coordinating community-wide disaster responses. “It serves as a central hub for communication, resource management, and strategic decision-making,” he explains. The EOC partners with the National Weather Service in Jacksonville to issue real-time warnings and forecasts.
One of the key tools available to the public is AlertMarion.com, a free emergency alert system powered by Everbridge. Residents can customize how they receive alerts – via phone, text, or email.
“AlertMarion allows all of our residents to receive time-sensitive emergency alerts,” Bowlin says. “Clear communication is key to ensure everyone is on the same operating picture.”
Built to Withstand the Storm
Marion County’s Emergency Operations Center, constructed in 2009, was specifically designed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane. Inside the facility, representatives from multiple agencies including Ocala Police Department, Marion County Board of County Commissioners, Marion County Public Schools, Cox Communications, and Interfaith Emergency Services, have dedicated stations where they can coordinate efforts and share real-time information with the public and media.
Staying Connected When It Matters Most
When other communication channels fail, Marion County turns to its HAM radio network. There is a dedicated department of FBI-vetted, FEMA-trained HAM radio volunteers like Harlan Cook who maintain communication capabilities when all other methods are lost. Two HAM radio operators are assigned to every hurricane shelter and can speak directly with federal agencies, bypassing internet or mobile disruptions.
Technology Enhancing Safety
Marion County Emergency Management also uses WebEOC, and GIS mapping tools for damage assessment, search and rescue coordination, and disaster recovery planning. These systems streamline communication with state and local partners and assist in obtaining FEMA reimbursement after major events.
For more information or to sign up for alerts, visit AlertMarion.com or call Marion County Emergency Management at (352) 369-8100.