Plan to survive and thrive during extreme weather

We must collectively prepare to survive and thrive during extreme weather

This is not a complaint post. I am writing this at 1:20am Friday, January 30, 2026, just hours since I evacuated my home in one of the worst hit regions during Winter Storm Fern. I am writing this to urge all of us, regardless of where we live to develop a collective community plan to prepare, survive, and even thrive during extreme weather events.

A collective community plan is one that must include the voice and leadership of people who are first and worst impacted by these devastating events, and not just those who hold positional power or status. We cannot wait on our elected officials to do this for us. We must do this for ourselves, welcoming the cooperation and support of elected officials but not depending on it.

Today I feel hopeful because, as soon as I was able to access my phone service and internet again, I learned about the grassroots efforts happening all across my community and others in the region to reach every home in the area to ensure folks are safe. The road ahead is uncertain. However, I believe we will all get through this and be better on the other side of it.