9 January 2025

Statement from the American Meteorological Society on Recent Events in New Orleans

As we prepare to gather in New Orleans for the 105th AMS Annual Meeting, our hearts continue to be with the people of this resilient city in the wake of the recent tragic event. The safety and well-being of our attendees, staff, and the local community remain our highest priority. AMS staff have been working closely with local authorities, venue staff, and our partners to ensure a safe and welcoming environment throughout our event. We have a few updates for our attendees:

What to Expect When You Arrive in New Orleans

• Please enter the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (MCCNO) at the Julia Street entrance and/or the Hall C doors (food court). 
• You will need to show your AMS badge to enter the AMS meeting space on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the MCCNO. Be sure to register online and pick up your badge in Hall C before heading to a session room. 
• Jersey Barriers have been installed in the Pedestrian Park around the MCCNO to enhance security. 
• Additional law enforcement officers will be stationed and will be patrolling in and around the MCCNO, the Hilton, and tourist districts such as the French Quarter.

As a reminder:

If you witness or experience behavior that constitutes an immediate and serious threat:

• At the MCCNO, call the Campus Security line at 504-582-3040.
• At the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, dial 55 from any house phone.

OR, you can call 9-1-1

To file a conduct complaint, or report non-emergency incidents, text AMS at (617) 606-4369.

New Orleans Downtown Development District (DDD) Public Safety Rangers: Visitors Downtown also can utilize the DDD Public Safety Rangers, who are on duty seven days a week from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Downtown SafeWalk escorts are offered free of charge within the Downtown DDD boundaries. Call or text 504-415-1730 at least 20 minutes prior to check availability.

View AMS’s safety tips here.

View Updates from New Orleans and Visitor Safety Website.

Thank you to the city of New Orleans for welcoming us warmly and safely once again. I wish you safe travels and an enjoyable as well as professionally rewarding meeting.

Anjuli Bamzai, President, American Meteorological Society