Planning Project Part II assignment. Please see my comments within the documents and make changes. Two documents attached. one is the document that has the comments from the professor and the other i

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Hurricane preparedness plan for the coastal community of Galveston, Texas

Planning Community

Rashid Osmanu

(Craig Brown, Mayor)

City of Galveston, Texas

GALVESTON, TEXAS EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN

PROMULGATION

The primary role of government is to provide for the welfare of its citizens. The welfare and safety of citizens is never more threatened than during disasters. The goal of emergency management is to ensure that mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery actions exist so that public welfare and safety is preserved.

The Galveston, Texas Emergency Operations Plan provides a comprehensive framework for Galveston, Texas-wide emergency management. It addresses the roles and responsibilities of government organizations and provides a link to local, State, Federal, and private organizations and resources that may be activated to address disasters and emergencies in Galveston, Texas.

The Galveston, Texas Emergency Operations Plan ensures consistency with current policy guidance and describes the interrelationship with other levels of government. The plan will continue to evolve, responding to lessons learned from the actual disaster and emergency experiences, ongoing planning efforts, training and exercise activities, and Federal guidance.

Therefore, in recognition of the emergency management responsibilities of Galveston, Texas government and with the authority vested in me as the Mayor of Galveston, Texas, I hereby promulgate the Galveston, Texas Emergency Operations Plan.

____________________________________

Craig Brown

Mayor, City of Galveston, Texas

Mark Sloan, Emergency Manager Major Razo Fire Chief

(City of Galveston) Galveston Fire Department

Philp Keiser, MD, Jerry Gibson, Superintendent

Local Health Authority Galveston Independent School District

David Smith, Director Travis S. Sims, Chief of Police

Galveston Public Works Department Galveston Police Department

Steven C. LeBlanc, City Manager John Listowski, Director

City of Galveston Galveston Emergency Management

This plan supersedes the City of Galveston Emergency Operation Plan dated (January-16-2025).

The transfer of management authority for actions during an incident is done through the execution of a written delegation of authority from an agency to the incident commander. This procedure facilitates the transition between incident management levels. The delegation of authority is a part of the briefing package provided to an incoming incident management team. It should contain both the delegation of authority and specific limitations to that authority.

The City of Galveston Emergency Operations Plan delegates the Mayor of Galveston, Craig Brown’s authority to specific individuals if he or she is unavailable. The chain of succession in a major emergency or disaster is as follows:

• Mayor- Craig Brown

• Mayor Pro Tem -Davide Collins (City Council Member- District 3)

• City Manager- Steven C. LeBlanc

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE_________________________________________________1

PROMULGATION STATEMENT__________________________________2

SIGNATURE PAGE____________________________________________3

APPROVAL AND IMPLEMENTATION_____________________________4

RECORD OF CHANGES________________________________________5

RECORD OF DISTRIBUTION_____________________________________6

PURPOSE, SCOPE, SITUATION OVERVIEW, ASSUMPTIONS_______8

CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS

ORGANIZATION AND ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

DIRECTION, CONTROL, AND COORDINATION

INFORMATION COLLECTION, ANALYSIS, AND DISSEMINATION

COMMUNICATIONS

ADMINISTRATION, FINANCE, AND LOGISTICS

PLAN DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES

1. Purpose, Scope, Situation, and Assumptions

1. 1. Purpose

It is the purpose of this Plan to define the actions and roles necessary to provide a coordinated response within the City of Galveston, Texas. This plan provides guidance to agencies within Galveston with a general concept of potential emergency assignments before, during, and following emergency situations. It also provides for the systematic integration of emergency resources when activated and does not replace county or local emergency operations plans or procedures.

1. 1. Scope

This plan applies to all participating departments and agencies of the jurisdictions contained within the geographical boundary of the City of Galveston.

1. 1. Situation Overview

      1. Characteristics

         1. Location

            1. Galveston is a coastal city located on Galveston Island in the Gulf of Mexico

            2. 50 miles southeast of Houston, Texas

1. 1. 1. 1. Geographic

            1. Galveston Island is a barrier island, approximately 27 miles long and 3 miles wide at its widest point.

            2. The city is highly vulnerable to storm surge, flooding, and hurricanes due to its low elevation.

         2. Demographic

            1. As of the 2020 Census, the City of Galveston has a population of approximately 53,695 residents.

            2. The city's population fluctuates seasonally due to tourism, with an estimated daytime population exceeding 100,000 during peak tourist months.

         3. Designated Areas of Interest

            1. Galveston Seawall – A 10-mile-long seawall constructed for hurricane protection.

            2. Historic Strand District – A major commercial and tourism center.

            3. University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) – A critical healthcare and research facility.

            4. Port of Galveston – One of the busiest cruise ship ports in the U.S.

            5. Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Moody Gardens – Major tourist attractions drawing large crowds annually.

         4. Special Events

            1. Mardi Gras Galveston (February) – Draws over 350,000 visitors annually.

            2. Lone Star Rally (November) – One of the largest motorcycle rallies in North America, attracting over 400,000 attendees.

            3. Dickens on The Strand (December) – A Victorian-themed holiday festival.

            4. Spring Break & Summer Beach Tourism – Peak tourist season with millions of visitors throughout the summer months.

1. 1. 1. 1. Economic Base and Infrastructure

Tourism together with healthcare services, maritime commerce and educational institutions make up the core economic sectors of the City of Galveston. Tourism continues to be a top economic contributor in the city alongside healthcare institutions and port management operations and research institutions. The tourism sector constitutes the biggest industry in Galveston because it draws over $1 billion through beach-going visitors who explore historical sites and experience cruise operations and extraordinary events annually. The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) operates as the city's most significant employer by delivering healthcare services together with conducting medical research. The Port of Galveston serves as a crucial facility for cruise passenger transport and cargo operations where it oversees millions of cruisers while processing thousands of shipping tons yearly. The regional economy bases its operation heavily on both offshore drilling activities and offshore energy businesses in the Oil & Gas sector. The city depends on bridges along with causeways that include the Galveston Causeway to provide access between the island and the mainland. Residents of the island can access transportation services through Scholes International Airport and Interstate 45.

1. 1. 1. Hazard Profile

         1. Potential Hazards

Several types of natural and human-created hazards threaten the City of Galveston.

Natural Hazards

The city of Galveston faces severe damage from hurricanes and tropical storms due to its connection to storm surges and heavy rainfall and fierce winds which Hurricane Ike (2008) devastated with damages amounting to $30 billion. The low sea level position makes the city highly susceptible to floods from any minor storm. Tornadoes together with severe storms affect the region although they occur with less frequency than other natural disasters. The summer months in the region exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the years which create dangerous conditions for human health. Permanent beach degradation and ground settlement affect Galveston's shorelines and built structures in the long run.

Technological & Human-Caused Hazards

Hazardous Materials Spills occur at the Port of Galveston where petroleum and chemicals along with industrial materials pass through thus raising the chances of dangerous spills taking place. Multiple maritime accidents occur because heavy cruise and cargo shipping merges with recreational boating traffic leading to higher possibilities of maritime disasters and oil spills as well as ferry collisions. Power outages together with water supply problems constitute utility failures during and after disaster events. Since it functions as both a tourist center and major port Galveston faces danger from terrorism alongside computer-based threats.

1. 1. 1. Vulnerability Assessment

The City of Galveston is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards due to its geographic location, low elevation, and dependence on tourism and port industries.

a. Coastal Flooding & Storm Surge Vulnerability

80% of Galveston Island is within a FEMA-designated floodplain.

Storm surges from Category 3 or higher hurricanes can inundate the island, as seen in Hurricane Ike (2008), which caused catastrophic flooding.

The Galveston Seawall (10 miles long, built after the 1900 hurricane) offers some protection but does not cover the entire island.

b. Population & Infrastructure Vulnerability

Critical Facilities at Risk:

1. 1. University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) – A vital healthcare and research institution.

   2. Port of Galveston – Key for commerce, tourism, and emergency supply chains.

• Scholes International Airport – Limited elevation makes it vulnerable to flooding.

• Bridges & Causeways – Only two access points to the mainland (I-45 Causeway & Bolivar Ferry) could be cut off during storms.

c. Economic & Social Vulnerability

• The tourism-dependent economy is disrupted by hurricanes and flooding, leading to long-term economic losses.

• High percentage of elderly residents (20% of the population), increasing evacuation and sheltering challenges.

• Low-income households may lack resources for evacuation or rebuilding after disasters.

d. Climate Change & Long-Term Risks

• Rising sea levels increase flood frequency and severity.

• Coastal erosion threatens residential areas, businesses, and infrastructure.

1. 1. Planning Assumptions

1. The establishment of effective prediction and warning systems enables individuals to anticipate both hurricanes and floods and natural disasters occurring in Galveston and surrounding areas before they happen.

2. Galveston City authorities assume disasters resembling hurricanes or flooding can trigger a major emergency in the city area. Different emergency situations generate various degrees of impact ranging from small-scale localized destruction to massive community-wide destruction. Flexibility combined with adaptability defines the essential characteristics of emergency planning since we cannot predict the disasters we will face.

3. The City of Galveston activates immediate emergency response measures to combat actual or impending disasters.

4. Mutual aid arrangements together with regional partnerships should help support the City of Galveston when its resources prove inadequate.

5. The local emergency response receives support from disaster relief programs operated by states and federal authorities, yet these programs never replace locally managed emergency procedures. The city needs to manage response operations in its jurisdiction before outside resources come on stage.

6. The primary responsibility of Galveston officials under this plan is to:

1. 1. Save lives,

   2. Protect property,

   3. Relieve human suffering,

   4. Sustain survivors,

   5. Repair essential facilities,

   6. Restore services, and

   7. Protect the environment.

7. The city of Galveston will provide needed assistance to different jurisdictions whenever possible when they ask for help.

1. Concept of Operations

A.General

1. 1. 1. Communications are maintained between affected jurisdictions and area emergency management branch offices. Branch office personnel may respond to the jurisdiction to facilitate ongoing information exchange.

      2. Spring County commissioners may declare local states of emergency and request State assistance. All requests for State assistance should go through the local emergency management area coordinator and the appropriate emergency management branch manager to the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

      3. When the State EOC is activated, the TEXAS EMERGENCY OPERATIONS AGENCY becomes the office of primary responsibility for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). The director of emergency management will normally serve as SERT leader.

      4. Texas State EOCs will serve as clearinghouses for response and recovery operations and for deployment of resources within the counties, including cities within the counties.

      5. Planning for recovery will be implemented at the same time local governments are taking the emergency response actions necessary to protect the public. Preparations will be made for the rapid deployment of resources necessary to facilitate recovery .

B. Hazard Control and Assessment

1. Perceive the Threat

• Observation: Gather information about potential threats from various sources such as weather reports, industrial warnings, or public alerts.

• Reporting: Ensure that any unusual or dangerous situations are reported immediately to the relevant authorities.

2. Assess the Hazard

• Identification: Determine the type of hazard (e.g., natural disaster, chemical spill, fire).

• Impact Analysis: Evaluate the potential consequences of the hazard, including the affected area, population, infrastructure, and environment.

• Probability Assessment: Estimate the likelihood of the hazard occurring based on historical data and current conditions.

3. Select Control Strategy

• Mitigation Measures: Identify and implement actions to reduce the severity and impact of the hazard (e.g., constructing barriers, reinforcing structures, or creating buffer zones).

• Preparedness Plans: Develop comprehensive emergency response plans, including evacuation routes, communication strategies, and resource allocation.

4. Control Hazard

• Implementation of Plans: Execute the chosen control strategies and emergency response plans.

• Resource Deployment: Mobilize emergency personnel, equipment, and supplies to manage the hazard.

• Public Communication: Keep the public informed about the hazard and the actions they need to take through various communication channels.

5. Monitor Hazard

• Ongoing Surveillance: Continuously monitor the hazard situation and its impact on the affected area.

• Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments to control strategies and response efforts based on new information or changing conditions.

• Feedback Loop: Collect data and feedback to improve future hazard control and assessment processes .

C. Protective Action Selection

1. Analyze the Hazard

• Type of Hazard: Chemical Spill

• Location: Industrial area near residential neighborhoods

• Potential Impact: Toxic fumes could affect nearby residents, causing respiratory issues or other health risks.

• Severity: High, due to the proximity to residential areas and the potential for widespread health impacts .

2. Determine Protective Action

• Primary Action: Evacuation of the affected area

• Secondary Action: Shelter-in-place for those unable to evacuate immediately

• Additional Measures: Distribute personal protective equipment (PPE) to emergency responders and provide medical assistance to those exposed .

3. Determine Public Warning

• Communication Channels:

  • Emergency Broadcast System: Announce evacuation orders and shelter-in-place instructions on local radio and TV stations.

  • Text Alerts: Send emergency text messages to residents in the affected area with instructions on what actions to take.

  • Social Media: Use official city accounts to share updates and safety information.

  • Sirens: Activate local emergency sirens to alert residents of the immediate danger .

• Content of Warning:

  • "Attention residents in the industrial area and surrounding neighborhoods: There is a chemical spill in your area. Please evacuate immediately if you are able . If you cannot evacuate, shelter-in-place by closing all windows and doors, and turning off ventilation systems. Follow instructions from emergency responders ."

4. Determine Protective Action Implementation Plan

• Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Emergency Management Team: Coordinate evacuation and shelter-in-place efforts, manage communication, and deploy resources.

  • Law Enforcement: Assist with evacuations, traffic control, and maintaining order.

  • Medical Teams: Provide medical assistance and set up temporary treatment centers for those exposed to toxic fumes.

D. Public Warning

1. Determine Message Content

• Essential Information:

  • Nature of the hazard (e.g., type, location, potential impact)

  • Protective actions to be taken (e.g., evacuation, shelter-in-place)

  • Specific instructions (e.g., routes, safety measures, contact information)

  • Timing (e.g., when to take action, expected duration of the hazard)

• Clear and Concise Language:

  • Use simple and straightforward language to ensure everyone can understand.

  • Avoid technical jargon and provide clear instructions.

• Reassurance and Support:

  • Provide information on where to seek help or assistance.

  • Offer reassurance to reduce panic and anxiety.

2. Select Appropriate Public Warning System(s)

• Emergency Broadcast System (EBS):

  • Use radio and TV stations to reach a broad audience quickly.

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA):

  • Send text alerts to mobile phones in the affected area.

• Outdoor Warning Sirens:

  • Use sirens to alert people outdoors of immediate danger.

• Social Media and Websites:

  • Post updates and information on official social media accounts and websites.

• Public Address Systems:

  • Utilize loudspeakers in public places to broadcast warnings.

• Door-to-Door Notifications:

  • In some cases, emergency personnel may go door-to-door to inform residents.

3. Disseminate Public Warning

• Coordinate with Agencies:

  • Ensure all relevant agencies and organizations are informed and coordinated.

• Activate Warning Systems:

  • Implement the selected public warning systems to disseminate the message.

• Monitor and Update:

  • Continuously monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

  • Ensure that follow-up messages are sent to provide additional information or instructions.

E. .Protective Action Implementation

1. Monitor Progress of Protective Action Implementation

• Continuous Assessment: Regularly check the status of the protective actions being carried out.

• Feedback Mechanisms: Implement systems to gather feedback from field personnel and affected residents.

• Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments based on real-time information and feedback.

2. Control Access and Isolate Danger Area

• Establish Perimeters: Set up barriers and checkpoints to control access to the affected area.

• Security Personnel: Deploy law enforcement and security teams to enforce the perimeter and prevent unauthorized access.

• Signage: Place clear signage to inform the public about restricted areas and safety zones.

3. Evacuation Support

• Transportation: Provide transportation options for residents who need assistance evacuating.

• Shelters: Set up and manage emergency shelters for evacuees, ensuring they have access to necessities.

• Communication: Keep evacuees informed about the situation and any updates through reliable communication channels.

4. Decontamination Support

• Decontamination Sites: Establish designated areas where individuals and equipment can be decontaminated.

• Trained Personnel: Deploy trained personnel to carry out decontamination procedures safely and effectively.

• Supplies: Ensure that there are sufficient supplies and equipment for decontamination, including protective gear and cleaning agents.

5. Medical Treatment

• Medical Facilities: Set up temporary medical facilities or utilize existing ones to provide treatment to those affected.

• Medical Teams: Deploy medical teams to offer first aid, ongoing medical care, and mental health support.

• Medical Supplies: Ensure an adequate supply of medical equipment, medications, and protective gear for healthcare workers.

6. Functional Needs Population Support

• Identify Needs: Identify individuals with functional needs (e.g., elderly, disabled, non-English speakers) who require special assistance.

• Tailored Assistance: Provide tailored support, such as accessible transportation, specialized medical care, and language translation services.

• Coordination: Coordinate with social services and community organizations to ensure comprehensive support for all affected individuals.

7. Search and Rescue

• Deploy Teams: Deploy search and rescue teams to locate and assist individuals in danger.

• Equipment: Equip teams with the necessary tools and technology to carry out search and rescue operations efficiently.

• Communication: Maintain clear communication channels between search and rescue teams and the emergency operations center to coordinate efforts .

F. Short-term Needs

1. Shelter Operations

• Establish Shelters: Set up temporary shelters in safe locations, ensuring they have basic amenities like beds, food, water, and sanitation facilities.

• Staffing: Deploy trained personnel to manage and operate the shelters, providing support and assistance to evacuees.

• Coordination: Work with local agencies and organizations to ensure shelters meet the needs of all evacuees, including those with special requirements.

2. Unite Families

• Family Reunification Centers: Create designated centers where families can be reunited. Provide assistance in locating missing family members.

• Communication Systems: Use hotlines, websites, and social media platforms to help families stay in touch and share information.

• Support Services: Offer emotional and psychological support to families during the reunification process.

3. Continued Medical Treatment

• Medical Facilities: Ensure medical facilities are operational and adequately staffed to provide ongoing treatment for those affected.

• Mobile Medical Units: Deploy mobile medical units to reach areas where residents may have limited access to healthcare.

• Medication and Supplies: Ensure a steady supply of medications and medical equipment to meet the needs of patients.

4. Increase Security

• Law Enforcement Presence: Increase the presence of law enforcement personnel in affected areas to maintain order and prevent looting or other criminal activities.

• Curfews: Implement curfews if necessary to ensure the safety of residents and facilitate emergency response efforts.

• Security Checks: Conduct regular security checks and patrols to monitor the situation and address any potential threats.

5. Stabilize the Affected Area

• Debris Removal: Clear debris from roads and public spaces to facilitate movement and access.

• Utility Restoration: Work on restoring essential utilities such as electricity, water, and gas to affected areas.

• Infrastructure Repair: Begin immediate repairs on critical infrastructure like bridges, roads, and communication networks.

• Community Support: Engage with community leaders and organizations to provide support and resources for residents, ensuring they have access to essential services .

E. .Long-term Needs

1. Re-entry

• Assessment and Safety Checks: Before allowing residents to return, ensure that all areas have been assessed for safety. This includes checking for structural damage, utility hazards (such as gas leaks), and environmental concerns (like contamination).

• Clearance and Authorization: Coordinate with local authorities to provide clearance for re-entry and communicate this information clearly to the public.

• Re-entry Plan: Develop a structured plan for re-entry, prioritizing areas based on safety and infrastructure stability.

• Support Services: Provide support services such as temporary housing, counseling, and financial assistance to help residents transition back to their homes.

• Communication: Keep residents informed about re-entry procedures, timelines, and available support through multiple communication channels.

2. Recovery

• Infrastructure Repair and Reconstruction: Focus on rebuilding and repairing damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, public buildings, and utilities. Ensure that reconstruction efforts incorporate resilience against future hazards.

• Economic Recovery: Support local businesses and industries to recover and rebuild. This can include providing financial aid, facilitating access to loans, and promoting economic development initiatives.

• Health and Well-being: Continue providing medical care and mental health support to residents affected by the emergency. Establish long-term health monitoring and support programs.

• Community Engagement: Involve community members in recovery planning and decision-making processes. This helps ensure that recovery efforts meet the needs of the community and fosters a sense of ownership and resilience.

• Environmental Restoration: Address any environmental damage caused by the emergency, such as soil contamination, water pollution, or loss of vegetation. Implement restoration projects to rehabilitate affected ecosystems.

• Review and Improvement: Conduct a thorough review of the emergency response and recovery efforts to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement. Update emergency plans and procedures based on these insights to better prepare for future emergencies .