Stay Informed
Getting the latest information before, during and after a weather emergency is critical. New Bedford residents have several options to get the key information about weather emergencies:
- NB Alert is an emergency notification system that residents can sign up for to receive calls, texts or emails directly to their landlines, mobile phones or email accounts. Visit www.nbalert.com to sign up, and call the Emergency Management Department at 508-961-3060 for more information or if you have questions.
- Key updates can also be found on the City’s website, www.newbedford-ma.gov, as well as on its social media channels: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
- Emergency notifications can also be found in several local media outlets, including the New Bedford Cable Network (Channels 9, 18 and 95 on local Comcast and online as well. Residents can also find notifications on the radio on 1420 WBSM, on television on Channels 10, 12 and 6, and online on SouthCoastToday.com and NewBedfordGuide.com
- MEMA’s Massachusetts Alerts – free smartphone application that delivers critical information, including severe weather. To learn more and download the free app (called Ping4Alerts!) onto your smartphone, visit: www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp.
- Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) for WEA-capable cellular devices.
- All Hazards National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio.
In addition to being informed of the types of disasters that could occur, staying informed leading up to and during an emergency is also critical. While many events have little to no notice, hurricanes, blizzards and other weather events do have some advance notice. Be aware of severe weather watches and warnings and understand what they mean. By being alerted of these severe weather warnings, you can take necessary protective actions to keep you and your family safe.
