Hurricane watches, warnings and what to do at each

Hurricanes do damage through storm surge, wind, rip currents and flooding. Storm surge has historically been the leading cause of hurricane deaths in the United States. Rain, wind and even tornadoes can reach far inland from where a storm makes landfall.

Before the season starts

• Find your evacuation zoneYour local government or emergency management office can tell you whether you live in a hurricane evacuation area. Learn the routes, practice them with your household and pets, and decide where you'll stay.
• Agree on a household planDecide how you'll reach each other, where you'll go and what you'll do, and make sure everyone understands it.
• Check the flashlights, the generator and the storm shutters
• Bring your documents up to dateCheck that insurance policies and ID are current, and keep copies in a secure, password-protected online account.
• Set up more than one way to get alertsThe FEMA app carries National Weather Service alerts for up to five locations. Sign up for your community's alerts too.

When a hurricane watch is issued

A watch means hurricane conditions are possible in your area, and the National Hurricane Center issues it 48 hours before it expects tropical storm-force winds.

• Listen to local officials, and evacuate if told to
• Bring in the outdoor furniture
• Charge the phones and the backup chargers
• Pack medicine, disinfectant and pet suppliesPut them in the go bag or the car trunk. You may not be able to get them for days or weeks afterward.
• Check on the neighborsOlder adults and others nearby may need help with their plans.

When a hurricane warning is issued

A warning means hurricane conditions are expected, and it comes 36 hours before tropical storm-force winds.

• Finish every preparationA warning is the deadline for having everything done.
• Leave at once if an evacuation is orderedIn a mandatory evacuation zone, go as soon as officials tell you to.
• Pick the room you'll shelter inFor high winds, use a designated storm shelter or an interior room. If flooding traps you, go to the highest level, but not into a closed attic, where rising water can trap you.

Once the storm arrives

• Stay out of floodwaterSix inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot can sweep a vehicle away.
• Keep following the alertsPay attention to emergency information until officials say the danger has passed.