City of Greensboro officials are asking area residents to help shape the region’s disaster preparedness plan by filling out a short online survey and attending one of two public meetings scheduled in August. This input will help Guilford County and the cities and towns within it update their official Hazard Mitigation Plan – the masterplan that outlines local strategies meant to reduce the risk and impact of natural disasters.

The current plan is being revised in coordination with Greensboro, Guilford County, other towns and community partners. It identifies hazards that could affect the area – such as floods, tornadoes, or winter storms – and it lays out ways to prepare for, manage or minimize those risks.

Anyone living in Guilford County, including within Greensboro city limits, is being encouraged to take the Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025 Survey, which is now available at guilfordcountync.gov/MitigationSurvey.

The deadline is Sunday, Aug. 31.

To make the process more inclusive, the survey is being offered in six languages: English, Spanish, French, Khmer, Swahili and Simplified Chinese.

Residents can also share their thoughts in person or online by attending one of two public meetings:

  • Thursday, August 14, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the NC Cooperative Extension – Guilford County Center Auditorium at 3309 Burlington Road in Greensboro.
  • Tuesday, August 26, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the High Point Public Library at 901 N. Main St. in High Point.

Each meeting includes a virtual participation option for those who prefer to attend remotely. Registration links for both meetings are posted on the survey site.

For questions about the survey or meetings, residents can contact Eddie Blanco with Guilford County Multimedia Communications and Public Relations at ecabrera@guilfordcountync.gov or 336-706-5688.

 For floodplain-specific concerns, contact Greensboro Water Resources Engineering Supervisor Johnnie Hill at 336-373-4653.

Greensboro’s Water Resources Department, which plays a central role in managing stormwater and flood issues, is one of several local agencies that will be contributing to the updated plan. Department officials said this week that their mission is to deliver top-tier water, sewer and stormwater services while protecting public health and ensuring good environmental stewardship.

More information is available at greensboro-nc.gov/water.

City leaders are also encouraging residents to sign up for G.E.A.N.I. – the Guilford Emergency Alert, Notification, and Information system that provides emergency alerts through cell phones, landlines, or email. Registration is available at readyguilford.org.

The Hazard Mitigation Plan update is expected to be finalized later this year after reviewing public input and revising strategies. Once adopted, it helps guide long-term planning and is a requirement for certain types of FEMA funding.

Local leaders hope the combination of community feedback and updated hazard assessments will make the region better prepared for whatever nature throws its way.

About