The 2018 hurricane season has arrived! Hurricane season runs June 1-November 30. In preparation, the National Weather Service's Houston/Galveston office has released the 2018 Hurricane Guide (download at HuntsvilleTX.gov/Hurricanes). The 2017 hurricane season brought three major landfalls, including Maria, Irma, and Harvey, and 2018 is forecast to be busy, too.

The brochure is designed to help residents prepare (note the Walker County Office of Emergency Management information on page 30). There are checklists for before, during, and after a storm; maps showing evacuation routes; and charts, helpful phone numbers, insurance tips, and more. Don't forget to make plans for pets, loved ones, and neighbors who may need assistance. Involve the kids with the storm name lists through 2020 on page 16 or in assembling go-kits.

Staying notified of what's going on locally is important during severe weather. Subscribe to City press releases, agendas, and publications by visiting HuntsvilleTX.gov/Subscribe (or clicking on the blue Stay Notified button on the City's homepage). Follow the City on social media, using #ReadyHuntsville during events, and regularly keeping informed at HuntsvilleTX.gov/ReadyHuntsville. Help keep #HomeSweetHuntsville safe and ready for whatever the season brings.