Gov. Tate Reeves has declared May 3 to May 9 Hurricane Preparedness Week in Mississippi ahead of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, which begins next month.
Fortunately for Mississippi, no hurricanes made landfall in the U.S. a season ago, but leading weather researchers are predicting 13 named storms in 2026. Of those, six are expected to become hurricanes and two could become “major,” meaning Category 3 or higher.
In his proclamation, Reeves noted the importance of Mississippians being prepared – no matter what early forecasts may predict – and urged those living in the state to use the week to begin pre-season preparations such as assembling disaster supply kits and making sure any potentially impacted property is insured.
“Over the last several years, our state has confronted many natural disasters including hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and ice storms,” Reeves said. “It is critical to have a plan before severe weather strikes. It can make a difference in keeping you and your family safe. I hope Hurricane Preparedness Week can help raise awareness about the upcoming hurricane season and encourage Mississippians to take the necessary steps to prepare.”
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency will use the week to educate residents on how to properly prepare their loved ones and homes for hurricanes.
Recommendations include stocking disaster supply kits with necessities like water, nonperishable food, flashlights, and batteries. MEMA also encourages homeowners to conduct an insurance check before hurricane season and purchasing flood insurance if their home is in an area susceptible to flooding.
“I encourage all Mississippians to use Hurricane Preparedness Week to prepare now by assembling an emergency supply kit, developing a family emergency plan, and determining evacuation routes,” MEMA executive director Stephen McCraney said. “By taking precautions now, we can safeguard our communities from any potential tropical storms. Let’s work together to ensure the safety and resilience of Mississippi during this hurricane season.”
During Hurricane Preparedness Week, MEMA will highlight the following topics each day on their social media accounts:
- May 3: Know Your Risk
- May 4: Prepare Before Hurricane Season
- May 5: Understand Forecast Information
- May 6: Get Moving When a Storm Threatens
- May 7: Stay Protected During Storms
- May 8: Use Caution After Storms
- May 9: Take Action Today
The 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season goes from June 1 to Nov. 30.
