Health Department

CONTACT INFORMATION: Our administration office at 10777 Main Street in Fairfax is open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. Clinic services are not offered at this location.
703-246-2411 TTY 711
10777 Main Street
Fairfax, VA 22030
Gloria Addo-Ayensu, M.D., M.P.H.
Director of Health

Department Resources

Fairfax Health District Urges You to Prepare for Hurricane Season

Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 3-9

The Fairfax Health District is reminding you that National Hurricane Preparedness Week is the perfect time to get ready for the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30. Hurricanes can bring strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, and even tornadoes. These storms can cause serious damage, even in areas far from Virginia’s coast.

Northern Virginia experienced significant flooding from Tropical Storm Lee in 2003 and the remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2021. Preparing for hurricanes now can help keep you and your loved ones safe if and when a hurricane comes to Northern Virginia again. You can also sign up for free Fairfax Alerts to receive direct emergency alerts at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts.

Colorado State University researchers predict a below normal hurricane season this year. They forecast 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. There is a 32% chance that at least one major hurricane will hit the United States. About 80% of major hurricanes strengthen very quickly, leaving you less time to prepare. One storm could change your life, so prepare now.

Make A Plan

When making or updating your emergency plan, think about:

  • How will you communicate with family if you are separated?
  • What is your evacuation zone if you live in a coastal area?
  • What is your evacuation plan? Where will you go if you need to leave?
  • What will you do with your pets during an emergency?
  • Where will you keep your plan written down and who will you share it with?

Build a Kit

Build or update emergency kits for your home and your car. Check expiration dates and replace old items. Basic items include:

  • Water and nonperishable food
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • First aid supplies
  • Important documents
  • Supplies for pets

Keep a list of your medicines, doses, and instructions. Include information about your health conditions, medical supplies, and allergies. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about keeping an emergency supply of your medications.

Stay Informed

  • Download the FEMA app for real-time alerts.
  • Use a NOAA weather radio.
  • Sign up for community alerts in your area, if available, and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up.
  • Track storms on the National Hurricane Center website.
  • Know the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning.
    • Hurricane Watch: Conditions might happen within 48 hours.
    • Hurricane Warning: A hurricane with winds of 74 mph or higher is expected within 36 hours. Warnings may stay in place even if winds weaken but water levels remain dangerous.

Stay Safe This Hurricane Season

Preparing now can help protect you, your family, and your community. The Fairfax Health District encourages everyone to take time this week to review plans, check supplies, and stay aware of changing weather conditions.

If you have questions about emergency preparedness, please visit fairfaxcounty.gov/health/emergency. 

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