It's time to prepare for hurricane season
It's time for Johnstonians to ensure they're prepared for hurricane season.
Hurricane season officially begins June 1, and now is the time for Johnston County residents to make sure we’re prepared before severe weather threatens.
Even though Johnston County is inland, hurricanes and tropical storms can still bring dangerous flooding, high winds, power outages and downed trees. Recent storms have shown how quickly conditions can change — and how important it is to have a plan in place before a storm heads our way.
“Preparation makes a difference,” said Ryan Parker, director of Johnston County Emergency Services. “Taking a few simple steps now can help protect your family, your pets and your property when severe weather strikes.”
Start with a plan
Every household should have a basic emergency plan that everyone understands. Talk with your family about:
- Where you would go if you had to leave home.
- How family members would contact each other.
- Where you would meet if separated.
- Who may need extra help, including older adults, children or people with disabilities.
Residents should also know local evacuation routes and pay close attention to instructions from emergency officials during severe weather.
Build an emergency supply kit
Emergency officials recommend keeping enough supplies on hand to support your household for up to one week without electricity or running water.
A basic emergency kit should include:
- Bottled water.
- Nonperishable food.
- Flashlights and extra batteries.
- First-aid supplies.
- Prescription medications.
- Cell phone chargers or backup battery packs.
- Cash.
- Important documents stored in a waterproof container.
- Blankets and extra clothing.
- Personal hygiene items.
Don’t forget pets. Make sure you have pet food, water, medications, leashes, carriers and vaccination records ready in case you need to evacuate quickly.
Preparedness doesn’t have to happen all at once. Residents can build their kits over time by picking up a few extra supplies during regular shopping trips.
Prepare your home
Simple maintenance now can help reduce storm damage later. Residents should:
- Trim weak or overhanging tree limbs.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
- Clean gutters and storm drains.
- Review insurance coverage, including flood insurance.
- Charge phones and backup batteries when storms are forecast.
Stay informed
During hurricane season, residents should monitor trusted weather sources and emergency alerts. A battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio can provide important information if power or internet service is interrupted.
More hurricane preparedness information, planning templates and emergency resources are available from ReadyNC.gov.
Page last updated on: May 14, 2026