President Trump’s message on Hurricane Dorian

As Hurricane Dorian affects America’s southeast coast this week, President Donald J. Trump is making the safety of all residents in its path his Administration’s top priority. “The safety of the American people must always come first,” the President said this weekend. “My staff and I receive frequent updates to ensure that we are fully prepared. And we are fully prepared.” At FEMA headquarters on Sunday, Acting FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor briefed President Trump on the approaching storm and its anticipated impact. Meetings such as these ensure that Federal officials—including the President himself—are working in close coordination with local authorities in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. President Trump also emphasized the importance of residents heeding warnings from state and local leaders to prepare and evacuate as needed. All told, a team of 4,000 strong is assisting in hurricane response efforts. These professionals and volunteers span 27 Federal departments and agencies, the Red Cross, and the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. Even with all these helping hands, nothing is more important for saving lives than taking precautions in advance. “Don't tough it out. Get out,” Acting FEMA Administrator Gaynor says. “Make the smart choice today, because the clock is ticking.” Life-threatening storm surge and high winds are expected from Florida up to the Carolinas over the next few days. Even if there is no direct landfall, Hurricane Dorian is likely to cause significant damage along the East Coast. These effects could be felt hundreds of miles—or more—from the center of the storm. To Americans in these areas: Please stay safe and be prepared to evacuate if you haven’t already. Fill the gas tank, know the evacuation zones and routes, and stock your vehicle with enough emergency supplies to last at least several days. “Americans are strong, determined, and resilient, and we will support each other. And we will work very hard to minimize whatever the effect of what’s coming at us,” President Trump said.