June 1st marks the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs through November 30th. Residents are encouraged to take time now to begin preparing before a storm.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) seasonal outlook predicts another active, above-normal, Atlantic hurricane season.
The beginning of hurricane season is a timely reminder for all residents to prepare for the effects of a hurricane by learning if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone, developing an emergency plan, building an emergency kit, and staying informed before, during, and after the storm.
Take action today to prepare for hurricanes and other tropical systems:
Know your risk. These storms are not just a coastal threat. Extreme flooding and damaging winds could occur hundreds of miles inland from the coast.
Begin planning. Know what you’ll do if a storm is coming to your area, how to stay in touch with family and friends, and where you will go if your home is unsafe. Visit ready.gov for preparedness and planning tips.
Make a kit. Make sure you have non-perishable food items, water, essential documents, flashlights, a battery back or other means of charging your cell phone, NOAA weather radio, toys or comfort items for kids, and any supplies needed for your pet. Have enough supplies to last at least 72 hours but preparing to be on your own for up to a week is a good idea. Learn more at ready.gov/kit.
Download the FEMA app. By having the FEMA app installed on your smartphoneyou can receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service, share real-time notifications with loved ones, review emergency preparedness tips and checklists, locate emergency shelters, and more.
Stay informed. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your mobile phone to receive emergency alerts from the National Weather Service. A NOAA Weather Radiocan also provide these lifesaving emergency alerts.
- Pay attention to weather forecasts in your area provided by local news outlets or the National Weather Service. Many people also use weather apps on their mobile phones for this purpose.
- Always follow the guidance of local officials during an emergency. If your community has an emergency alert system you should consider signing up. Contact your local emergency manager for more information.
Purchase flood insurance. Talk to your insurance provider about your coverage and determine if you would be covered in the event of a flood.
- Most homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage.
- Flood insurance takes 30 days to become effective – don’t wait until the last minute!
- Visit floodsmart.gov for more information.
Known your zone. If you live in a coastal area, become familiar with community evacuation plans, evacuation zones, and evacuation routes. Where will you go and how will you get there?
- Maryland: mema.maryland.gov/know-your-zone
- Virginia: knowyourzoneva.org
More information on how to prepare may be found at ready.gov/hurricanes.
