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National Weather Service recognizes Penn State Health as StormReady

Penn State Health is now officially StormReady. The National Weather Service presented the health system with the certification on May 12 for its efforts to ensure that staff, patients and visitors are prepared to receive information about and respond to all aspects of hazardous weather.

Achieving StormReady status means that Penn State Health meets certain standards, including:

  • establishing a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center

    A conference room with tables and chairs placed throughout. Vests with job titles such as “operations sections chief” and “safety officer” are draped over many of the chairs. A window, easel, and large screen monitor are in the background.

    The Emergency Operations Center at Penn State Health’s corporate headquarters in Hershey, Pa.

  • having more than one way to receive severe weather warnings and forecasts and to alert the public
  • creating a system that monitors weather conditions locally
  • developing a formal hazardous weather plan

“Understanding the risks and threats posed by severe weather helps to keep our growing health system safe and resilient,” said Scott Mickalonis, director of emergency management and business continuity at Penn State Health. “We strive to be as prepared as possible so that our organization can carry out its mission of continually improving the health and well-being of the people of Pennsylvania, and beyond.”

Penn State Health is the third hospital or health system in Pennsylvania to earn StormReady status.

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