North Carolina — As Hurricane Preparedness Week begins across the United States, emergency management officials and weather experts are urging residents in coastal and hurricane-prone areas to take proactive steps to safeguard lives and property ahead of the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, which officially starts on June 1.

Hurricane Preparedness Week, observed from May 5 to May 11, is a nationwide effort led by the National Weather Service (NWS) to raise awareness and promote readiness in the face of potentially devastating tropical storms and hurricanes. With recent hurricane seasons bringing record-breaking storms, officials say preparation is more critical than ever.

Each day of the week focuses on a specific aspect of hurricane safety, including storm surge awareness, evacuation planning, disaster supply kits, insurance reviews, and strengthening your home against wind damage.

Local governments across the Southeast and Gulf Coast are holding preparedness fairs, hosting community workshops, and releasing updated evacuation zone maps. Meanwhile, FEMA is encouraging families to review emergency plans and restock supplies like bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid kits.

Meteorologists are already watching tropical activity in the Atlantic, and NOAA’s official seasonal outlook is expected later this month. While predictions vary, experts agree that climate factors like El Niño and warm ocean temperatures will influence storm development.

For more information and resources, visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes, www.weather.gov/mhx/hurricaneprep, or your local emergency management website.