While hurricane season is officially from June 1 - November 1, it is important to always be prepared and take all alerts seriously.
NC State Experts Predict 12-15 Named Storms This Hurricane Season
Some Tips and Reminders from FEMA
Download the FEMA app to your mobile phone and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service to be informed about hurricane watches and warnings.
Sign up for community alerts in your area.
Know your NC evacuation zone.
Know the risks in your area. Find out what types of wind and water hazards could occur where you live.
Get started by having enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectants, masks, and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk.
Make sure to have extra water and nonperishable foods at home. After a hurricane, you may not be able to purchase some essential items for days or even weeks.
Involve your whole family in creating a family emergency communications plan and emergency kit.
Learn your evacuation routes. Practice with household members and pets and identify where you will stay. Local emergency managers will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community.
If public evacuation shelters aren’t the safest choice for you and your family, prepare alternative plans to shelter in place at home or with nearby friends or family, whichever is safest.
Be aware of health and safety concerns.
Contact your local emergency management office, animal shelter, or animal control office if you’re unsure how to take care of your pet during an emergency.
Have your pets microchipped in case they get lost.
Review steps to prepare for flooding and how to protect your home.
Visit ready.gov/hurricanes to learn more about how to get ready for hurricanes and how to stay safe during a storm.
As you prepare for emergencies, make sure you have a plan for Fluffy and Fido, too. If sudden emergencies or storms arise, evacuation or sheltering will be less stressful for you and your family, including your pets if you have a plan in place.