COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – South Carolina residents are no strangers to hurricane season, and it officially started Sunday.

Kim Stenson, director of the South Carolina Emergency Division, said it’s crunch time.

“Prepare while you have the opportunity because relying on last-minute efforts might not be very effective,” said Stenson. “It’s essential to evaluate available resources, develop your plan, and be ready to act if necessary.”

Stenson advised that preparing for a hurricane is best done before one even forms. Hurricane season officially starts on June 1 and continues until November 30.

“Remain aware of developments. Listen to trusted sources, particularly at the local level, and if you’re advised or instructed to evacuate, it’s important to follow that guidance,” said Stenson.

There have been several natural disasters recently, like Hurricane Helene and wildfires. Stenson said those events shouldn’t change people’s preparation but, no matter where you live, coast or inland, you’re not off the hook. Storms can bring flash flooding and strong winds.

“Well, we don’t really expect any big changes in terms of that. I mean, we’ve known about these risks for a number of years,” said Stenson. “For several years, we have encouraged people to be aware that a hurricane event is not just a coastal county event, but it can occur anywhere in South Carolina in terms of the effects of it; the wind and the rain, etc. “

Stenson added that communication with FEMA is still evolving. They have not heard anything about getting fewer resources this year.

“We don’t have, you know, all the information in terms of what we think may end up in that particular sphere but, right now we’re expecting to get the same level of support from FEMA that we get every year and, you know, that may change later on, but we’re not expecting anything right now,” Stenson said.

Stenson said one resource you could use is the SCEMD mobile app. It gives you access to evacuation routes, emergency alerts, and checklists for your family and pets. You can also head to their website for more information.