FAIRFIELD – With hurricane season underway, Sen. Tony Hwang on June 22 moderated a panel of experts at McKinley Elementary School to review the impact of climate change on storm severity and frequency, emergency safety protocols and preparations, and environmental sustainability efforts to make Connecticut’s coastline more resilient.

“Severe and destructive storms are happening more and more frequently,” Sen. Hwang said.  “In light of that, it makes sense to have these detailed discussions about the impact of rising sea levels on personal and public property. This forum examined the issue from a public safety and economic perspective as well as an emergency management and science-based lens. We talked about best practices for protecting loved ones and pets in an emergency situation.  This multi-pronged discussion focused on how to be prepared and how to minimize future damage to our environment and our communities.”

The forum included perspectives from the Town of Fairfield, Ash Creek Conservation Association, the National Audubon Association CT Chapter and the Connecticut Institute on Resiliency and Climate Adaptation.  The panelists discussed:

“I thank the expert panelists for sharing their insights, knowledge and data,” Sen. Hwang said. “We simply want to help keep people safe and to further advance our efforts to protect our beautiful coastline.  This is an ongoing discussion which I am fortunate to help moderate.  I appreciate the community for attending this forum, and we will continue to convene these gatherings to spread the word about preparation, funding, and preservation.”