Just in time for the start of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) attains the Weather-Ready Nation (WRN) Ambassador designation. This earned classification formally recognizes National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) partners strengthening the nation's resistance to extreme weather, water and climate events. As a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador, ATL will educate stakeholders and local communities on severe weather preparedness. Additionally, ATL is working with NOAA and other Ambassadors to strengthen national resilience against extreme weather.

This designation, received in mid-May, furthers the collaboration ATL’s Emergency Management (EM) has established with the National Weather Service (NWS) and strengthens the Airport’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its passengers and employees. ATL’s EM Preparedness Team spearheaded the effort to meet all requirements and guidelines.

“Our Emergency Management unit is the best in our industry,” said ATL General Manager Balram “B” Bheodari. “The safety of our customers, staff, and stakeholders is always our top priority. Pursuing and earning the Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador designation speaks to our commitment to ensure that when nature is at its worst, we are at our best.” 

“I’m proud of the EM team’s actions that led to this designation,” said ATL Assistant General Manager of Emergency Management Gus Hudson. “This designation represents our ongoing commitment to partnering with our stakeholders, surrounding communities, state and federal partners in preparedness efforts of weather awareness.

This is ATL’s second designation by the NWS. It also earned StormReady designation in 2017, which underscores its commitment to increased weather safety awareness for passengers and employees. The designation also provides assurance of effective communication and preparedness before and during severe weather events. ATL is the first airport in Georgia and the second commercial site in the state to achieve StormReady certification.