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On June 27, APGA staff participated in a webinar hosted by the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER). The Atlantic hurricane season officially started on June 1, so this event brought together federal, state, local, and private sector stakeholders and decisionmakers. All of these individuals are interested in better understanding the risks involved with critical infrastructure systems, some of which APGA members operate, as well as the infrastructure interdependencies. Appropriate preparations amongst these groups should be coordinated before any significant storms take place. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Forecast predicts an above-normal season, expecting 17-25 named storms, 8-13 hurricanes, and 4-7 major hurricanes. Peak activity is estimated to occur between August and October. La Niña conditions are anticipated to increase the likelihood of intense hurricanes.  

The June webinar specifically gave an opportunity for APGA staff to share on the unique operating characteristics of community-owned utilities and some differences in response should there be a major hurricane. It was also noted that the resilient and reliable infrastructure of APGA’s utility members can be a resource to energize generators or combined heat and power (CHP) units if electricity is lost after a storm. Others in the natural gas supply chain shared for the benefit of DOE CESER’s team. 

Pertinent information from federal government partners will be shared with members by APGA staff, as it becomes available. However, public gas utilities are encouraged to ensure steps are taken to prepare for this year’s hurricane season.

For questions on this article, please contact Josh St.Pierre of APGA staff by phone at 202-407-0015 or by email at jstpierre@apga.org.