A hurricane watch means there is a possibility of hurricane conditions within 36 hours. A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 24 hours or less.
In 2003, the National Hurricane Center began issuing 5-day hurricane forecasts; previously only 3-day forecasts were issued. The forecast predicts the most likely path that a hurricane will follow.

During a Hurricane Watch
• Listen to a radio or television for storm reports (have a working, battery-operated radio nearby).
• Check emergency supplies.
• Fuel car.
• Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys and garden tools and anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
• Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows. Remove outside antennas.
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly.
• Store drinking water in clean jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils.
• Review evacuation plan.
• Moor boat securely or move it to a designated safe place. Use rope or chain to secure boat to trailer. Use tie-downs to anchor trailer to the ground or house.

During a Hurricane Warning…
• Listen constantly to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.
• If in a mobile home, check tie-downs and evacuate immediately.
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home or take them with you.
• Avoid elevators.

If at home:
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
• Keep flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power surge when electricity is restored.
• Remember that cordless non-cellular phones will not work if the electricity is out.

If officials indicate evacuation is necessary:
• Leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.
• Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.
• Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
• If time permits, and you live in a surge zone, protect furniture from flooding by elevating it or move it to a higher floor.
• Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing.
• Take blankets and sleeping bags to shelter.
• Lock up home and leave.

After the Hurricane Has Passed
• Stay tuned to local radio for information.
• Help injured or trapped persons.
• Give first aid where appropriate.
• Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.
• Call for help.
• Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so.
• Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police or fire department.
• Enter your home with caution.
• Beware of snakes, insects and animals driven to higher ground by flood water.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
• Check refrigerated foods for spoilage.
• Take pictures of the damage, both to the house and its contents for insurance claims.
• Drive only if absolutely necessary. Avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
• Use telephone only for emergency calls.