The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) is predicting a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season, which runs from the beginning of June til the end of November. That means the possibility of 11-18 storms, 5 to 10 of which could become hurricanes. Although North Carolina is generally not in the direct path for hurricanes, it's always good to follow safety protocol in the event of bad weather. Here are some tips to prepare for hurricane season:
1. Plan an evacuation route, accounting for young family members and pets and finding the nearest shelters
2. Keep supplies on hand like flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, prescription drugs, and a portable radio
3. Get a generator for power outages
4. Secure items outside your home and park your cars in a safe place (in the garage or on high ground)
5. Ensure that your legal documents, like your insurance policy and financial papers, are in a safe place
6. Gather important contact information for emergency disaster assistance and family members
Safety always comes first, so make sure your loved ones are protected in the event of a hurricane. No one wants to be caught in the middle of a disaster, but it is always best to be prepared. Remember that in the event of an emergency, immediately contact organizations like FEMA or the American Red Cross for help.