Hurricane season begins this week and there has already been a named storm in the Atlantic Ocean. Fortunately, Tropical Storm Ana formed in the Atlantic stayed out to sea.

However, severe tropical weather is common in North Carolina, so now is the time to prepare:

• Create an emergency plan
• Review and update homeowners or renters’ insurance policies
• Have an emergency kit ready

For more tips on preparing for a natural disaster, visit readync.org. Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.