CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Residents in both North and South Carolina are familiar with the dangers and damage caused by hurricanes.
This year marks the 33rd anniversary of the devastation caused by Hurricane Hugo.
In the Charlotte area, although the city is situated away from the coast, inland flooding, tornadoes and strong wind damage are the biggest concerns associated with hurricanes.
Wind from hurricanes can top over 200 mph, causing massive damage to buildings and homes.
[ SEVERE WEATHER RESOURCE GUIDE: make sure you're prepared ]
Inland flooding can damage homes and structures well away from the coast.
>> As we get closer to hurricane season, make sure to download our free WSOC-TV Weather app
(WATCH: How to use the WSOC-TV weather app for forecasts in the Carolinas)
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May 1 through May 7 was recognized as Hurricane Preparedness Week -- a week in which the National Weather Service released daily tips to help prepare for this hurricane season.
Officials say the first rule when bracing for severe weather is to plan accordingly, and the second is to have enough supplies for at least three days.
With this in mind, here are some items to have on hand as you plan for dangerous weather:
- Drinking water -- at least 1 gallon per person, for 3 to 7 days
- Non-perishable food items to last at least 3 days
- Have a stock of items on hand to care for any small children and the elderly
- Manual can opener, cooking tools, fuel, and lighters/matches
- Cellphone and charger
- Blankets and pillows
- Seasonal clothes
- Well-stocked first aid kit (and prescription medications and oxygen if needed)
- Toiletries and hygiene items
- Flashlights, lanterns and batteries
- Disinfectant wipes
- Cash
- Important documents (in a waterproof bag)
- Pet care items
- Top off fuel tanks on vehicles
To make sure your family is ready, install hurricane tie-downs on mobile homes and outbuildings, trim large trees and limbs that may fall on your home, consider installing a generator and make sure your homeowner’s insurance policy is up to date and covers flooding if you live in a flood-prone area.
Hurricane season runs from June through November.
(WATCH: 8 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Hurricane Season)
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