City of North Bend release - The City of North Bend has once again been recognized as a TsunamiReady community by the National Weather Service (NWS), a distinction that underscores the city’s ongoing commitment to public safety and disaster preparedness. The renewal, which is valid through January 2031, confirms that North Bend continues to meet all of the program’s rigorous requirements.  What is TsunamiReady?  The TsunamiReady program, administered by the NWS, is a nationwide initiative designed to help coastal communities strengthen their ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from tsunamis. To earn and maintain the designation, cities must meet strict standards in five key areas:  Communication systems that ensure timely warnings reach residents and visitors, including emergency alerts and multiple notification methods.  Preparedness education such as community drills, school presentations, and public information campaigns.  Emergency planning with clearly established evacuation routes, shelter locations, and coordination among first responders.  Training for local officials and emergency managers, including tabletop exercises and scenario-based planning.  Public outreach to ensure residents and businesses know how to react in the event of a tsunami.  Training and Education in North Bend - To maintain TsunamiReady status, North Bend’s Fire Department and Emergency Management team regularly participate in training exercises with regional partners. These include simulated tsunami response drills, coordination with neighboring cities and the county, and ongoing education for schools, businesses, and civic organizations. Residents may also recognize the city’s efforts through annual preparedness events, posted evacuation route signs, and informational materials distributed throughout the community.  Fire Chief Jim Brown, who also serves as Co-Emergency Manager with City Administrator David Milliron, emphasized the importance of this recognition:  “Being TsunamiReady is about more than just meeting requirements on paper. It means our city has the plans, the communication tools, and the community awareness necessary to respond quickly and effectively if a tsunami strikes. This designation gives residents and visitors peace of mind that North Bend is ready.”  What It Means for Residents - For the people of North Bend, the TsunamiReady designation is a reassurance that their city is actively investing in safety and resilience. It means that families have access to evacuation maps and drills, that schools are teaching students how to respond, and that local officials are trained and equipped to manage a disaster.  Bradley Schaaf, Acting Meteorologist in Charge at the NWS Medford Office, praised North Bend’s efforts in the official letter of recognition: “North Bend continues to do an outstanding job of promoting tsunami preparation, awareness, and resilience in the community. We value our ongoing relationship with the City of North Bend and look forward to assisting in your efforts to promote tsunami awareness.”  A Safer, More Resilient Future - With its TsunamiReady status secured through 2031, North Bend plans to build on this achievement by expanding community outreach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that preparedness remains a citywide priority.  For more information on tsunami preparedness, including evacuation routes and safety tips, residents are encouraged to visit the City of North Bend’s website (northbendoregon.us) or contact the Fire Department at (541) 756-7757. Tsunami evacuation maps are also available for free at North Bend Fire & Rescue Station No. 1, 1880 McPherson Street.