Hurricane Season 2025 Begins June 1

by: Dr. Kirkpatrick Williams  

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially began today, running through November 30, and early forecasts predict an above-average year, threatening 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and up to five major hurricanes.

Meteorologists warn that even inland communities like those in northwest Louisiana, eastern Texas, and southern Arkansas should take early precautions. Despite being miles from the Gulf Coast, the Ark-La-Tex remains vulnerable to heavy rains, flooding, strong winds, and possible tornadoes embedded within tropical systems.

Regional Readiness: What Locals Can Do Now

1.  Build Your Emergency Kit & Go-Packs

Stock nonperishable food and one gallon of water per person, per day, for 3–5 days. Include first-aid, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered or NOAA Weather Radio, and a mobile phone charger. Store essential documents, IDs, insurance papers, medical info, in waterproof containers.

2.  Know Your Evacuation Routes

Even inland communities may need to evacuate if flooding threatens. Identify safe evacuation paths. Keep vehicles fueled, gas stations often close before storms arrive.

3.  Secure Your Property

Trim tree limbs capable of damaging homes. Reinforce windows with storm shutters or pre-cut plywood, and secure outdoor items that could become airborne. Consider sandbags if you live in flood-prone areas.

4.  Stay Vigilant & Informed

Download trusted alert apps, such as FEMA or NOAA Weather Radio, which work during power outages. Follow local weather coverage and heed evacuation orders without delay.

5.  Plan for Special Needs

Households with infants, elderly members, pets, or disabled individuals should make specific accommodations, extra supplies, prescriptions, and mobility aides.

Why Early Preparedness Matters

Above-average season ahead: NOAA forecasts heightened storm activity through summer and fall. Inland risks are real: Tropical systems often bring flash floods, wind damage, and rumbles of tornadoes far from the coastline. Once winds intensify, it’s too late: Hurricane warnings typically arrive 36 hours before landfall, preparation must happen now.

Your Ark-La-Tex Hurricane Preparation Checklist

Emergency kit               Food, water, meds, batteries, radios, chargers

Important docs              IDs & records in waterproof bags

Evac plans                    Know car routes & shelter locations

Home prep                    Trim trees, install shutters, secure lawn gear

Alerts                             Install FEMA & NOAA apps + battery radio

Special needs               Prepare for pets, elderly, infants, disabled

Bottom line

The Ark-La-Tex may not be coastal, but this hurricane season’s risks, floods, tornadoes, and power loss, demand vigilance now, not later. Prepare today, and stay alert through November.