While North Central Florida has only had to deal with the flooding impacts of Elsa, we are witnessing the severe impacts being seen to our west and north from Ida.

And we are only in the early part of the most active period of the hurricane season. With Larry having formed in the Atlantic on Sept. 1, we have seen 12 named storms to date.

Hurricane forecasters predict that before the season is over, we can see 18 named storms, eight hurricanes and four major hurricanes (category 3 or stronger). An average season sees 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.

So, while we may not experience the kind of record number we saw last year, we still need to be prepared for an active season.

If you have not yet made the necessary preparations for your home, now is the time.

Here are some of the things you should and should not be doing at this point.

The first thing on the list of don’t dos is hoarding. There’s no need to run to the store and stock up on supplies. Instead, keep track of the forecasting and purchase supplies when and if it becomes necessary.

As we have suggested in the past, consider a portable generator. There are predictions that people in Louisiana may be without power for up to a month. A portable generator, installed by a licensed electrician, can help avoid that problem should we be hit by a storm of that intensity.

Next, while roofers are extremely busy right now, it would be worthwhile to have a professional examine your roof. Unfortunately, as busy as they are, if you do need a new roof, it will likely be after hurricane season before the work can be done.

Have the trees on your property examined to see if there are any obvious issues that can be addressed. However, keep in mind, that with enough rain and wind, even a healthy tree can cause damage.

Check your homeowner’s insurance policy. Most do not include flood insurance. And you cannot make changes once a storm is heading to our area.

Finally, secure porches and carports, make sure windows and doors are sealed and have a plan to clear the outside area of your home should a storm be approaching.

As we always suggest, review our resources page to find a qualified expert to help you with any of these projects.

The most important thing you can do is be prepared, and if a storm should come our way, stay safe.