Be Ready for Hurricane Season...
National Hurricane Preparedness Week, is observed May 3 to 9, right before this year's hurricane season. It's a great time to learn how to be prepared for hurricanes and know what to do.
Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem! Impacts from high winds, excessive rain and water can be felt hundreds of miles inland, and significant impacts can occur regardless of the storm's strength. Also, many people vacation at the beach during hurricane season and should be informed and aware of what to do, just in case.
It's vital to assess your risk and begin preparations early. Consider the following:
- Hurricanes and other types of high windstorms cause wind damage and storm surges for those who are near the coast.
- For those who are inland, check to see if you live in a flood-prone area, for instance in West Virginia it may be an area near a creek or river, or low-lying valley against a mountain where you would get a lot of rain run-off.
- If you are vacationing near the coast, learn the hurricane emergency protocol for the city and the place (hotel, campsite, etc.) you will be staying.
- Stock up on essential supplies like non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries.
- Save copies of essential documents (like insurance policies, bank accounts, etc.) in a fire and waterproof safe offsite, or in the cloud to ensure you can access them if you need them.
- Reinforce windows and doors to help protect your home.
- Cut away trees and shrubs from around your house.
- Secure or bring outdoor furniture or loose items inside.
Be Informed – Understand Forecast Information
KNOW the different types of alerts:
- A Weather Alert – means less serious conditions may be occurring, imminent or likely.
- A Weather Watch – means there are favorable conditions for it to happen, but the location or timing is still uncertain so you must keep track of forecasts.
- A Weather Warning – means it is imminent or happening now. It poses a threat to life or property, and you need to take protective action now!
Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts and official alerts. Emergency Apps can help you be prepared and stay informed. Here are a few to consider:
- Download Weather Apps – See a list of the 2026 FREE Best Weather Apps
- FEMA App - helps you to plan for disaster, know how and when to protect during disasters, and provides tools for recovery.
- American Red Cross Emergency App – this FREE App provides step-by-step guides, weather alerts, and can help you locate nearby Red Cross shelters.
So, before hurricane season begins on June 1st, take the time to understand your risk from hurricanes and begin pre-season preparations now.
Learn more at American Red Cross, NOAA and at FEMA's Ready.gov