Earthquakes and Coordination – A Real Day in the Life of an Emergency Manager

By Marta Krawczysnki, NYC Emergency Management, Strategic Partnerships Unit Fellow

On April 5, 2024, the earthquake that shook New York City left many, including myself, confused yet also excited. As someone born and raised in the Northeast, earthquakes were alien to my experience. Upon feeling the tremors, my first instinct was to reach out for information, turning to my phone to verify what had just occurred. Finding myself at NYC Emergency Management (NYCEM) soon after, amidst the hustle of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), I witnessed a remarkable display of collective action.?

Walking into the EOC, I found myself amidst a whirlwind of activity. News reporters clamored for updates as emergency personnel swiftly mobilized to craft a cohesive response. Within the chaos, there was a sense of purpose and coordination as each individual played their part in preparing for the imminent press release. From crisis managers to communication specialists, everyone seamlessly collaborated, leveraging their expertise to ensure the dissemination of accurate information to the public. Witnessing this orchestrated effort underscored the resilience and preparedness of NYC's emergency management system in the face of unforeseen challenges.

This experience has reinforced the importance of my role as a fellow within the Strategic Partnerships Unit, which I've embraced since November. A central aspect of my duties within the Unit has been prioritizing effective communication during times of crisis. Beyond NYCEM, my aspiration to contribute to emergency management and post-disaster reconstruction has been a guiding motivation. Working closely with this unit has granted me invaluable insights into the crucial role of partnerships and communication during such critical junctures. The dedicated team at NYCEM consistently demonstrates their unwavering commitment to this mission, tirelessly working to ensure the resilience and preparedness of our communities.

As I immersed myself in this endeavor, I gained a deeper understanding of the complex network of organizations involved. One significant insight I gained was the pivotal role of renters insurance in disaster preparedness—a key facet that I never fully appreciated before. This realization underscored the interconnectedness of various sectors within NYCEM and the broader community, highlighting the indispensable nature of seamless communication among them to ensure the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers.

As my time with NYCEM nears its end, I’m saddened yet grateful for the invaluable experience and support from the NYCEM family. I’m excited to embark on the next chapter, where I can apply my newfound knowledge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of New Yorkers.