CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — When the sky is blue, is when you should prepare for the worst, that's the motto Alberto Pillot with FEMA lives by.
“Why do it when it's already cloudy and the storm is on you,” said Pillot. “There's nothing left.”
This year, the NOAA predicts this hurricane season to be above average, with five to nine hurricanes including two to four storms category 3 or higher.
Pillot says the best thing you can do is be prepared.
“Make a plan, have a kit, and stay informed,” said Pillot.
A plan of evacuation should be made with the people in your household, as well as meet up spot in case you get separated.
He says a disaster kit should have enough food, water, medication, and clothing to last you 5 to 7 days.
But most importantly, Pillot says getting flood insurance before the waves of tragedy crash is key to being able to get back on your feet after a disaster.
“It would protect your home better in case of any flooding event, it doesn't have to be a national declaration or a federal declaration to have any flooding event that would happen would be covered,” said Pillot.
Most flood insurance policies take 30 days to go into effect, acting early is critical when it comes to mother nature.
“Two inches of water is almost $20,000 worth of damages,” said Pillot.
Two years ago, hurricane Harvey dumped more than 60 inches of rain along the Texas coast. People are still recovering from the devastation.
Pillot says preparedness can save families both trouble and money.
“FEMA assistance is immediate needs so it’s never going to bring you back to what you used to be that's why insurance is so important to have,” said Pillot.