The National Hurricane Center predicts five hurricanes for the Atlantic region this year; however, even just one can be devastating. In 2011, Hurricane Irene hit Hampton Roads causing major flooding and leaving hundreds of thousands of people without power, according to an Aug. 28, 2011, Pilotonline.com article.

When there is a real threat of a hurricane, ships moored at Naval Station Norfolk typically get underway, or sortie, consequently requiring all Sailors to be aboard. This also means Sailors' families may have to evacuate the area without them in the face of a hurricane. When it comes to planning for this natural disaster, Sailors should ensure their families are familiar with shelter locations, evacuation routes and how to prepare homes in advance of the storm.

"Preparation and having a plan is always important," said Lt. Cmdr. C. Thornton, Truman's meteorology and oceanography officer. "It's better to be proactive rather than reactive. That way, no one is scrambling when a storm is right above them."

A critical part of planning for a hurricane is having an evacuation route, should there be a need for family members to flee a storm.

"It's always important to have more than one route planned in case a hurricane does happen," said Thornton. "You never know if your usual route will be blocked off, flooded or full of traffic."

If possible, personnel should try to get out of the area as soon as possible when a hurricane warning is issued.

Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class D. Osborne, a Sailor attached to a ship that experienced a hurricane, said he highly recommends trying to get out of the area before the storm hits.

"When I was living in Webster, Texas, we had a storm coming in. I went south to Austin to get away as much as possible," said Osborne. "It's better to get out ahead of the storm rather than try to wait it out in your home. You never know when something like trees or debris might come crashing into it."

Elizabeth Manning, disaster program manager for the Virginia region Red Cross, said public schools are usually used for shelter during a disaster. To find out which areas are being used during a storm, you can watch the news, listen to the radio or speak with local officials.

"If your family isn't able to make it to a designated area, they can take shelter in the most inward room in the house without windows," said Manning. "They should also keep supplies in the same room or in the closest room available. If possible, cover all windows with tape or board them up. When taking shelter at home, notify family members or neighbors as soon as possible."

Another step in making preparations is gathering supplies and keeping them readily accessible.

Thornton said when it comes to food, it would be a good idea to buy canned food or food that doesn't require refrigeration or cooking in case of a power outage.

Other items that that may be useful in an emergency include flashlights, batteries, candles, matches, first aid supplies and copies of personal documents (birth certificates, deeds/leases, passports, etc.). Thornton also recommends a three-day supply of water, allowing one gallon per person and supplies for pets and babies.

For more information on hurricane preparation, visit www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare, www.ready.navy.mil .

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/.