Though hurricane season is three weeks away, now is the time to get ready. Gov. Phil Bryant declared this week as Hurricane Preparedness Week to ensure residents are ready for the upcoming tropical weather season.

“With continued preparation and coordination, my goal will always be to save lives and improve our state’s ability to withstand the impact of tropical systems,” Bryant said. 

Though it has been a relatively quiet few years when it comes to hurricanes, Nate’s landfall last year was a reminder that Mississippi could be in the bullseye again.

“Because of the excellent preparedness of our residents, state and local partners, there were no deaths nor injuries due to the Hurricane Nate,” said MEMA Executive Director Lee Smithson. “We cannot allow complacency to set in. Now is the time to prepare for another potentially active hurricane season.  Remember, it only takes one to change your life forever.”

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially starts June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. The key to surviving a hurricane is preparation, and MEMA recommends a disaster kit with the following items.

• Non-perishable food and water for at least three to five days.

• A first aid kit with prescription medications.

• A battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.

• Cash and traveler’s checks.

• Specialty items such as baby formula and pet-care items.

“The state and local governments are as prepared as we can be for the next hurricane,” Smithson said. “The real key is personal responsibility. Have a plan, don’t put yourself or family in harm’s way, and be prepared for the aftermath.”