(WTXL) — We are just three days out from the start of hurricane season. While last year was pretty quiet, this one is expected to be busy.
Thunder is ringing in what people prepare for months in advance: Hurricane season.
"There may be abnormal activity in the tropical Atlantic," said Kelly Gosey, a senior forecaster with the National Weather Service.
Storms not just impacting coastal areas.
"The effects of these storms extend many miles inland," Gosey explained.
If the Big Bend sees a hurricane or tropical storm this season, you can expect:
"Devastating winds, flooding from heavy rainfall and even tornadoes," said Gosey.
Those hurricane force winds can pick up trees, sending them flying through the air. They could possibly make homes a target if they're not cut down in time.
"We see a lot of damage with trees on houses and cars," said Steve Pershard, the president of AAA Trees.
Pershard says you can prevent that by cutting down hazardous trees or limbs.
"It depends on the targets," Pershard explained, "if it can reach your house or some of your property."
His recommendation is to move your cars away from any trees and board up windows to prevent broken glass.
Sandbags are also good to use for homes in low-lying areas that face a flood threat.
If water is high on the road, flash flooding can happen even in areas that are normally dry. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Gosey says there's no time to wait.
"You want to make sure that that is done well before the storm approaches, and you're not trying to do that at the last minute as winds are increasing," Gosey warned.
Making sure you and your family can weather the storm.