Hurricane season is here, stay prepared with these easy tips.

It is June 1st and unfortunately, we know what that means... Hurricane season is here and there is no such thing as being over prepared. Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 20th of each year. Once a storm enters the gulf, you will see hurricane warnings and watches go up.

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What is the difference between a warning and watch?

• Hurricane Watch: This means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 miles per hour [mph] or higher) are possible in a stated area. Experts announce hurricane watches 48 hours before they expect tropical-storm-force winds (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) to start.
• Hurricane Warning: This means hurricane-force winds are expected in a stated area. Experts issue these warnings 36 hours before tropical storm orce winds are expected in the area to give people enough time to prepare for the storm.

Here are some handy tips to help make sure that you and your family are prepared just in case a major storm is headed your way.

Stock up on supplies:

Remember that a hurricane could cut off the power and water supply to your home and you may not be able to get out due to roads may be flooded or blocked so always try to stock up on everything you might need in case you are homebound for a while:

• Fill your cars up with gas.
• Have an emergency supply of food, water and medicine.
• Perform a maintenance check on your portable or home generator.
• Have enough emergency lighting power sources such as flashlights, lanterns, batteries, portable radio and battery charging packs.
• Keep cell phones and laptops charged.
• Know where your important documents are such as flood and homeowner's policies, medical documents and personal identification.

Don't forget your furry family members:

• Make sure you have enough food and medicines for your pets for a few weeks.
• Make a list of a pet-friendly hotels, pet boarding places or an out-of-town friend or family member where you can bring your pets, in case you have to evacuate.

Be prepared in case you must leave:

• Have bags packed with all your necessities in case emergency authorities order a mandatory evacuation or if your home is damaged and you need to go to a hotel, shelter, family or friend's house.

For more tips you can go to:

https://www.noaa.gov/hurricane- oprep

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/