The same coastal lifestyle that draws so many people to southeastern North Carolina also comes with a responsibility: being prepared when hurricane season arrives.

From Brunswick County to Onslow County, homeowners know how quickly a tropical system can develop and change course. Hurricane season officially began on June 1 and will continue through November 30, making now the ideal time to review emergency plans, understand hurricane forecasts, and take steps to protect your home before a storm appears on the radar.

Whether you’re new to the coast or a longtime resident, a little preparation today can make a big difference when severe weather threatens tomorrow.

Understanding Hurricane Categories

When meteorologists discuss a hurricane’s category, they are referring to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranks storms from Category 1 to Category 5 based on sustained wind speeds. It’s important to remember that a storm’s category only measures wind strength. Dangerous storm surge, flooding, and tornadoes can occur with storms of any category.

• Category 1 (74-95 mph winds)
  Very dangerous winds can cause damage to roofs, siding, trees, and power lines. Power outages may last several days.
• Category 2 (96-110 mph winds)
  Extremely dangerous winds can cause extensive damage to homes, trees, and utility infrastructure. Power outages may last from days to weeks.
• Category 3 (111-129 mph winds)
  Considered a major hurricane. Devastating damage is possible, with significant impacts to homes, roads, utilities, and water systems.
• Category 4 (130-156 mph winds)
  Catastrophic damage is expected. Many structures may sustain severe damage, and some areas may become uninhabitable for weeks or months.
• Category 5 (157+ mph winds)
  The strongest classification on the scale. Catastrophic destruction is possible, with widespread structural damage and long-term disruptions to daily life.

Don’t Focus Only on the Category

One of the biggest misconceptions about hurricanes is that a lower-category storm is not dangerous. In reality, water is often the greatest threat. Storm surge, inland flooding, and tornadoes can occur regardless of a hurricane’s category and frequently cause the most significant damage and loss of life.

That’s why emergency managers encourage residents to pay attention to the entire forecast—not just the number attached to the storm.

Preparation Tips for Homeowners

• Review Your Insurance Coverage
  Before a storm is on the horizon, verify that your homeowners and flood insurance policies are current. Understand what is covered and what is not. Waiting until a storm enters the forecast may be too late to make changes.
• Create an Emergency Supply Kit
  Experts recommend having enough supplies for at least three days, including water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents
• Know Your Evacuation Plan
  If local officials issue an evacuation order, you’ll want to know where you’re going and how you’ll get there before traffic begins to build. Discuss plans with family members ahead of time.
• Secure Outdoor Items
  Patio furniture, grills, planters, and decorative items can become dangerous projectiles during high winds. Bring them indoors or secure them well before a storm arrives.
• Charge Devices and Fuel Vehicles
  Don’t wait until the last minute. Keep phones, backup batteries, and essential electronics charged, and maintain a full tank of gas during hurricane season.
• Document Your Home
  Take photos and videos of your home’s interior and exterior before a storm. Having a record of your property can make insurance claims easier should damage occur.
• Stay Informed
  Monitor forecasts from the National Hurricane Center, National Weather Service, and local emergency management officials. Watches and warnings can change quickly as storms develop.

Important Emergency Management Contacts

If a hurricane threatens our region, local emergency management offices are among the best sources for evacuation orders, shelter information, and recovery resources.

Brunswick County Emergency Services

• Phone: 910-253-5383
• http://www.brunswickes.com/emergency/management/
• https://www.facebook.com/BrunscoES/

Duplin County Emergency Management

• Phone: 910-296-2160
• http://www.duplincountync.com/governmentOffices/emergencyManagement.html
• https://www.facebook.com/DuplinCountyEM/

New Hanover County Emergency Management

• Phone: 910-798-6900
• https://em911.nhcgov.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/NewHanoverEM/

Onslow County Emergency Services

• Phone: 910-347-4270
• http://www.onslowcountync.gov/581/Emergency-Management
• https://www.facebook.com/OnslowES/

Pender County Emergency Management

• Phone: 910-259-1210
• http://www.penderem.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/penderem

A Home Designed for Coastal Living

At Hagood Homes, we build homes specifically for the way people live in coastal North Carolina. From durable materials and energy-efficient construction to thoughtful design features that help homeowners weather the challenges of coastal living, every detail is considered with long-term comfort and resilience in mind.

While no home is immune to the forces of nature, preparation, planning, and quality construction can help homeowners feel more confident when hurricane season arrives.

As we move through the 2026 hurricane season, take time now to review your emergency plans, gather supplies, and stay informed. The goal isn’t to live in fear of the next storm—it’s to be ready if one comes.