[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 19 (Monday, May 16, 2005)]
[Pages 788-789]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7899--National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2005

 May 10, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Each year from June through November, Americans living on the 
Eastern seaboard and along the Gulf of Mexico face an increased threat 
of hurricanes. These powerful storms can create severe flooding, cause 
power outages, and damage homes and businesses with their high winds, 
tornadoes, storm surges, and heavy rainfall. The effects of these storms 
can be devastating to families and cause lasting economic distress. 
During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we call attention to the 
importance of planning ahead and securing our homes and property in 
advance of storms.
    Last year, six hurricanes and three tropical storms hit the United 
States, causing the loss of dozens of lives and billions of dollars in 
damage. Across the United States, Americans

[[Page 789]]

responded to these natural disasters with extraordinary strength, 
compassion, and generosity. Many volunteers donated their time and 
talents to help with the cleanup, recovery, and rebuilding of 
communities devastated by the hurricanes and tropical storms.
    To prepare for the 2005 hurricane season, I urge all our citizens to 
become aware of the dangers of hurricanes and tropical storms and to 
learn how to minimize their destructive effects. Our Nation's weather 
researchers and forecasters continue to improve the accuracy of 
hurricane warnings, enabling residents and visitors to prepare for 
storms. By working together, Federal, State, and local agencies, first 
responders, the news media, and private citizens can help save lives and 
diminish the damage caused by these natural disasters.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 15 through May 21, 
2005, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week. I call upon government 
agencies, private organizations, schools, and the news media to share 
information about hurricane preparedness and response to help save lives 
and prevent property damage. I also call upon Americans living in 
hurricane-prone areas of our Nation to use this opportunity to learn 
more about protecting themselves against the effects of hurricanes and 
tropical storms.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of 
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence 
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-ninth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 12, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 13.