Maricopa County Emergency Management

09/08/2026

As we continue to recognize Emergency Preparedness Month, today's memory from the Master of Disaster-preparedness, the Queen of Cat-astrophy, a meow mix of planning (she couldn't stomach "plethora"), the Dancing Destroyer (of furniture), our trusted source, Dumpling the Preparedness Cat: Always follow trusted sources! Because just like Dumpling, severe weather can appear at any time! Maricopa.gov/ready

Dumpling The Preparedness Cat knows that severe storms can hit any time of year - monsoon, fall winds, winter rains and spring showers. Dumpling monitors trusted weather sources like the Flood Control District of Maricopa County, the US National Weather Service Phoenix Arizona and tunes into local media broadcasts for current information. Dumpling has nine lives, we don't. Be prepared, have a plan and practice it. Visit Maricopa.gov/ready for more information - about preparedness, not Dumpling.

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day, Maricopa County! Today, we recognize and celebrate the hard work of the people who keep our communities moving, from first responders and emergency personnel to teachers, healthcare workers, public servants, and so many others.

As you enjoy the long weekend, take a moment to stay safe, stay hydrated, and keep an eye on the Arizona heat. ☀️

Have a safe and happy Labor Day!

09/04/2026

Preparedness starts before an emergency happens. Taking a few simple steps today can make a big difference when the unexpected happens. Know your risks, make a plan, build an emergency kit, and stay informed.

Visit Maricopa.gov/ready to learn more about hazards in our area, as well as how to prepare for them. 🔥

09/03/2026

🚨 Emergency Bag 101: Be ready for whatever comes next.

In an emergency, you may need to shelter in place or evacuate quickly. Knowing what to pack ahead of time can make all the difference.

Prepare now. Stay safe. Be ready.

For more information, or to see our go-bag checklists, visit our website at Maricopa.gov/ready

09/03/2026

September is Arizona Preparedness Month! 🌵

Governor Katie Hobbs has proclaimed September as Arizona Preparedness Month, reminding Arizonans that preparedness starts long before an emergency happens.

From extreme heat and monsoon storms to wildfires and other hazards, taking a few simple steps today can make a big difference when it matters most.

This month, we encourage you to:

📋 Make an emergency plan
🎒 Build or refresh your emergency kit
💧 Store enough water and essential supplies
📱 Sign up for emergency alerts
🤝 Check in with family, friends, neighbors and those who may need additional support

09/01/2026

September is Emergency Preparedness month! For the first Tuesday, we bring back our often imitated, never duplicated, in-house (because Dumpling doesn't deal with the elements) top dog (um, Cat!) : Dumpling the Preparedness Cat!

You. Yes, you! While it may look like Dumpling The Preparedness Cat is doing what she does best and preparing for a cat nap, she's looking at you. Dumpling doesn’t want you to get complacent with preparedness. Are you READY and prepared for a SET or GO notification? Do you have a family emergency plan…and practice it? Do you know where your critical paperwork is? Is the pet carrier available (easier said than done getting the pet IN the carrier)? Your safety requires continuous attention (much like Dumpling). More preparedness tips at Maricopa.gov/ready

08/28/2026

Arizona may be known as a blue-sky state, but that doesn’t mean we’re in the clear when it comes to hazards. While we may not face hurricanes or live in Tornado Alley, natural and human-caused threats can still impact our communities every day.

From wildfires and extreme heat to monsoons and other emergencies, being prepared can make all the difference. Take steps today to prepare for what tomorrow may bring.

Visit Maricopa.gov/ready for more preparedness tips and resources.

08/27/2026

Today, the Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management was proud to be recognized by Maricopa County for our efforts supporting the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

We’re honored to be among the many departments recognized for working to keep our communities safer, healthier, and more prosperous.

The Maricopa County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (MCCWPP) was developed in response to the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 to help at-risk communities and unincorporated areas prepare for and reduce the impacts of severe wildfire.

Through collaboration with Maricopa County and 20 partner agencies and communities, the CWPP provides a framework for identifying at-risk public and private lands and strengthening wildfire preparedness and protection efforts.

This important work is ongoing, with a dedicated working group regularly assessing progress and the plan being reviewed and revised every five years.

Thank you to all of our partners who continue to make wildfire resilience a community effort! 🤝🌵