Forecasters within NOAA’s National Weather Service predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this summer. Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.

There’s a 60% chance of an above-normal season with 13 to 19 named storms. Out of those, six to 10 could become hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher). Forecasters say three to five could become Category 3 or higher, with winds of at least 111 mph.

Most hurricane-related damage tends to occur along the coast, but last year’s storms were a strong reminder that powerful winds and severe flooding can devestate businesses, destroy homes and disrupt lives hundreds of miles inland.

While there’s still time, review your business’s disaster plan to ensure it’s up to date. If your small business doesn’t have a disaster plan, now’s the time to create one:

• Understand the risks. Is your business located in a flood zone? Are tornadoes, hailstorms, earthquakes, or wildfires potential threats? Identify the most likely hazards in your area and take steps to reduce your vulnerability.
• Ensure adequate insurance coverage. You’ll need enough insurance to rebuild your business if necessary. Review your policies to understand what is — and isn’t — covered. Consider business interruption insurance, which helps cover operating costs during a shutdown. Flood insurance is also strongly recommended, as most standard policies don’t cover flood damage.
• Document your assets. Take photos and videos of your building, equipment, inventory, and other important assets. Store copies online or in waterproof, fireproof containers kept in a secure off-site location, such as a relative’s or colleague’s home in another state.

• Have a business continuity plan. Identify critical operations and resources needed to stay open or resume work quickly after a disaster. Consider remote work capabilities and alternate workspaces.

• Have an emergency response plan. Identify evacuation routes, establish meeting locations, and keep emergency phone numbers accessible to employees and family members.
• Create a communications plan. Designate a point person to relay updates to employees, customers, and vendors. Because local phone and internet service may be down after a disaster, identify an out-of-state contact to serve as a central hub for communication.
• Back up business records. Make copies of critical documents such as tax records, contracts, and employee information. Store paper copies in a fireproof safe and back up digital records to a secure cloud platform.
• Build a disaster kit. Stock it with a flashlight, portable radio, batteries, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, bottled water, a basic tool kit, plastic sheeting, and garbage bags. Keep it in an accessible location. Encourage your employees to assemble similar kits for their homes.