Hurricane season is upon us and the first named storm, Agatha, already hit southern Mexico. 

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.

Predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show a high probability of an active hurricane season. 

While an average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, with six hurricanes, three of them major, according to NOAA’s website, forecasters have said this year could be above average. 

Given our history of the past few years, with the region feeling the effects of hurricanes each year, South Georgia residents should prepare for whatever the next six months may hold.

Southwest Georgia preparations should include:

• Disaster kits with water and nonperishable food for at least three days, portable radio and flashlights with plenty of batteries, prescription medication, important documents and other special needs, such as baby diapers.

• An emergency plan so each family member knows how to find others. Have another emergency contact person who lives out of town.

• Stay informed on evacuation orders and routes. Check with your insurance agent on flood insurance and your homeowner’s policy.

• Businesses should have a disaster plan to locate employees, to continue business if the physical location is severely damaged or destroyed, etc.

Even though South Georgia has experienced the brunt of hurricanes  in our past, too many people do not prepare for the possibility of disastrous weather until days prior to a storm’s predicted landfall.

Last-minute preparations lead to situations such as what has happened here in the past when bottled water and canned foods disappear from store shelves to a point where some people had more than plenty and others had nothing stocked.

Stock up on perishable foods now in case of food shortages or electrical outages in the wake of a hurricane or storm.

While we are so very fortunate to have excellent emergency services in Thomas and Grady counties with emergency personnel that seem to always be up to the task, it does mean that every household should no always take great precautions and adequately prepare for possible severe weather. 

A little preparation now can save time, money and worry later.

It is never too early to prepare.