Press Release

Release: National Weather Service Recognizes County With StormReady Certification

FONDA - Earlier this month, the National Weather Service recognized Montgomery County for achieving a StormReady certification. On Feb. 16, Emergency Services Director Jeffery T. Smith accepted a sign and letter designating this achievement from representatives from the National Weather Service's Albany office.

"I want to congratulate Jeff and his team for taking these steps to make sure we are as prepared as possible for severe weather events," County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort said. "Public safety and emergency preparedness are among our highest priorities at the county."

Becoming StormReady was a process that included the county's Emergency Management Office having a county weather plan written, involving the public in citizen preparedness discussions, having NOAA weather radios available for the county's emergency responders and 911 dispatch center, having local weather spotters and the national weather information to assist the county in preparing and notifying the public of potential weather problems.

"We're really proud of the fact that we were able to complete this certification process," Smith said. "The National Weather Service is a great partner in keeping the people of our county safe and informed."

"I want thank the officials from Montgomery County for all of the work they've done to become certified StormReady," said Ray O'Keefe, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service's Albany office.

There are 25 counties in the state that are certified StormReady. For more information on this initiative, please visit the StormReady website*.