May marks the beginning of hurricane season in the US, with Eastern Pacific hurricane season beginning May 15 and Atlantic and Central Pacific hurricane season beginning June 1. Regardless of where hurricanes land, they always come with powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding, which can cause significant harm to life and damage property.

If you have not prepared for hurricane season before, now is the time to get ready. Here are some ways to stay ahead of the storm and be better prepared.

Be on Alert

• Know the risks [lnks.gd] in your area. Find out what types of wind and water hazards could occur where you live.
• Download the FEMA app [lnks.gd] to your mobile phone and receive�real-time alerts from the National Weather Service [lnks.gd] to be informed about hurricane watches and warnings.
• Sign up for community alerts [lnks.gd] in your area.
• Be informed on the latest CDC guidance on COVID-19 [lnks.gd] to see how it could impact your plans.

Make an Emergency Plan

• Get started by having enough supplies [lnks.gd] for your household, including medication, disinfectants, masks, and pet supplies [lnks.gd] 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 [lnks.gd] in creating a family emergency communications plan [lnks.gd] and emergency kit [lnks.gd].
• Learn your evacuation routes [lnks.gd]. 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 you need to evacuate to a public shelter, review the latest CDC guidelines for public shelters [lnks.gd] before you head out. If public evacuation shelters are not in 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.

Prepare Your Home and Help Your Neighbors

• Make sure to clear storm drains and gutters and bring in outside furniture. Consider installing hurricane shutters if you need added protection against the storm.
• Check with neighbors, seniors, or those who may need additional help [lnks.gd] when making your plans.

Visit ready.gov/hurricanes [lnks.gd] to learn more about how to get ready for hurricanes and how to stay safe during a storm.