With the 2026 hurricane season quickly approaching, June 1 through November 30, Jackson County Emergency Management officials encourage residents to take action during Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 3–9) by reviewing and updating their emergency plans and supply kits.
“With hurricane season right around the corner, May is the perfect time to get ready for tropical storms and severe weather,” said Zeb Holland, Emergency Management Director, Jackson County. “Being prepared, by creating an emergency plan and assembling a supply kit, may make the difference between being a storm victim or a storm survivor.”
What You Can Do Now
1. Make a Plan – Write down your family’s emergency plan. Include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and meeting locations. Be sure every family member knows the plan and how to access it.
2. Build or Update Your Emergency Supply Kit. Stock your kit with enough non-perishable food and water to sustain each person in your household for at least one week. Other essential items include:
· First-aid kit
· Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio with extra batteries
· Prescription medications
· Sleeping bags or blankets
· Extra clothing
· Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant)
· At least $200 in cash
· Pet supplies (food, water, leash, muzzle, bedding, vaccination records)
3. Stay Informed and Ready to Act
When a storm is approaching, tune in to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio for the latest weather updates and instructions. Know your community’s evacuation routes and evacuate immediately if ordered. Following official guidance protects not just your household, but also emergency responders who may be called to help.
“We also encourage you to follow the Jackson County Emergency Management Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JacksonNCEM,” emphasized Holland. He also encourages residents to sign up for CodeRED Jackson County’s Emergency Alerts at https://accountportal.onsolve.net/jacksoncountync.” For more resources and tools to help you get prepared, visit www.ReadyNC.gov.
