(NHC) Director Michael Brennan urges Americans to prepare as the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season begins, emphasizing that understanding personal risk is crucial. Reflecting on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024, which resulted in 251 deaths and approximately $78.7 billion in damages, Brennan highlights the importance of early planning and awareness."Getting ready for hurricane season is all about knowing that risk and starting the hurricane season ready for what that risk might be and how it might present itself to you," Brennan said.

Key Takeaways for Hurricane Preparedness:

The scars from Hurricane Helene are still evident, particularly in places like Chimney Rock Village, North Carolina, where a third of businesses were destroyed, and recovery efforts continue. The storm's impact extended beyond immediate damage, with significant tree loss in Asheville increasing vulnerability to future climate events.

As the season progresses, Brennan emphasizes the need for vigilance: "You could have a storm really develop and threaten you within just a couple of days, and that’s not the time to develop your hurricane plan. That’s when you want to put [the plan] into practice."

With forecasts predicting an above-average hurricane season due to warmer ocean temperatures, the call to action is clear: understand your risks, prepare early, and stay informed to protect yourself and your community.