This past weekend marked the start of hurricane season. And with the Peach State sitting on the Atlantic coast, it’s at a higher risk of being impacted by storms that start in the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts the region faces an 85% chance of an above-normal hurricane season this year, forecasting between 18 and 25 named storms. Up to 13 could become hurricanes. 

Last August, Hurricane Idalia caused about $2.5 billion in damage, hitting southeast Georgia farmers hard.

Here’s what you need to know this — and every — hurricane season, according to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency. 

Be prepared

Hurricane watches are typically issued 48 hours before the anticipated storm’s arrival, and hurricane warnings come out 36 hours beforehand. Gather supplies early, before conditions worsen. Pinpointing when or how a hurricane will impact your life can be difficult, but being prepared can make a potentially scary situation a lot easier to handle.

Before a hurricane hits, it can be useful to have background knowledge about terms used to identify hurricanes, your designated zone in the event of a mandatory evacuation, the extent of your area’s flood risk and a plan to secure your property and evacuate.

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency recommends creating a “Basic Ready Kit” with water, food, a can opener, radio and other useful items in case you have to evacuate.

Look into the National Flood Insurance Program, which provides flood insurance in exchange for the management of flood-prone areas. The program is available in hundreds of communities across the state.

Braving a hurricane

If a hurricane hits, stay updated on the latest news in your area. If you have to evacuate, listen to local authorities’ advice through radio, TV or whatever medium you use to get your news.

Secure your home during the storm. Turn off utilities and propane tanks, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.

Experiencing severe weather conditions can be stressful, but remaining calm is key to making it through safely. 

After the storm

Once the hurricane ends, be alert for possible tornados or continued flooding. Storm damage can be a safety hazard, storm experts say. To avoid being electrocuted, stay away from downed power lines and floodwaters. 

If you evacuate, do not return home until your local authorities give instructions. If you’re having trouble finding local updates, the National Weather Service’s NOAA Weather Radio is a nationwide resource for weather news and warnings.

Hurricane season in Georgia lasts until Nov. 30. Bookmark this page and visit the GEMA website for more resources to help you stay safe all year long.

You can reach Nava Rawls at [email protected] or on X @navarawls.