(BPT) - If you think this year has been especially severe for hurricanes, you're not wrong. Back in August, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) upgraded the 2024 hurricane season forecast to predict 17-24 named storms this year, which could make it one of the busiest on record. Unfortunately, this prediction is coming true, with the Atlantic Basin already seeing more frequent and much more intense storms.

While severe weather can cause conditions that are nearly impossible to fully prepare for, you can take some steps to help safeguard your family and property ahead of time.

"It's best to assume a storm will hit your area at some point, so you can be proactive instead of just reactive," said Craig Fugate, former administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). "There's no substitute for advance planning and preparation."

Here are recommended actions to help you be more prepared for stormy weather.

1. Create or update your emergency kit

If you don't have a household emergency kit, or you haven't updated yours in a while, take time to stock up on items your household may need in case of a severe storm in your area. A great resource for packing your kit is Ready.gov/kit. Recommended items include bottled water, non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, flashlights and batteries, plus first aid supplies.

It's also a good idea to have a "go bag" for each family member, packed with essential items in case you need to evacuate your home.

2. Maintain your property

Another crucial way to help weather-proof your house to some extent is to make sure your home and property are in good repair. If your home's roof, siding and windows are in top condition, they may be better able to withstand at least some of the elements. Regularly inspecting your home to look for damage is recommended before, during and after storm season.

Another key component to help prevent one source of storm damage is ensuring that trees are not growing too near your home, and that they are in good health. Having your trees trimmed by a professional arborist can help ensure you'll have fewer dead or damaged limbs that could fall on your home, car or power lines.

3. Protect your access to power

One of the toughest things to get through during and after severe weather events is the loss of power. Without electricity, food will spoil, and you can't cook, access the internet or use other vital home electronics.

To help you power through the aftermath of a storm, Jackery offers an innovative new solar generator, the E2000v2, that's capable of powering an extensive range of high-power appliances including refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, high pressure washers and more. It also features multiple outlets so you can power smaller devices such as routers, and is equipped with 18W USB-A and 100W USB-C ports to support smaller electronic needs. The generator also offers powerful, quick and convenient charging in as little as two hours.

Best yet, the E2000v2 is small and light, offering 30W uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for instantaneous emergency backup power in less than .02 seconds, making it a reliable solution for backing up vital electronics.

Unlike traditional gas generators that require further costs for fuel and maintenance, the E2000v2 can be combined with solar panels to harness power from the sun to serve as a renewable energy source, producing clean and free power with no ongoing expenses. Gas generators also create toxic and potentially deadly emissions, but the clean power provided by E2000v2 is coupled with silent operation - making it safe and convenient to use indoors.

Because of its small size and portability, you can use the E2000v2 for many other purposes, including tailgating, RVing, overlanding, camping and more. Its UL-listed safety, shock and fire resistance also make the E2000v2 ideal for working outdoors with tools that require a steady power supply.

Visit Jackery.com to learn more.

4. Be prepared to evacuate

Most importantly, make sure you're ready to evacuate if needed. Having your go bags in an easily accessible spot, knowing how to turn off the electricity and gas to your home before you leave (to help prevent fires) and planning for a place to go with your family are all important steps to help you feel confident that you can leave quickly when necessary.

"Your local government officials are the best source when it comes to the conditions on the ground where you live," added Fugate. "So it's always important to tune in to what they're recommending for residents in your area before a storm."

Taking steps like these now can help you feel more prepared and secure, no matter what nature throws your way.