If the weather forecasters are correct, we could be in for a rough ride during the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season.

Those in the business of making long-range predictions are saying between 14-to-23 named storms are possible, of which there will be 8-to-14 hurricanes; and of that amount there could be as many as seven major hurricanes.

With hurricane season now underway (as of June 1), the time is now to think seriously about preparations.

While most people think of the terrible winds that come with a hurricane, local residents now know that the floodwaters hurricanes spawn can be far more devastating. We in northeastern North Carolina need only to be reminded of Hurricane Floyd in 1999 for proof of flooding.

It’s good advice not to wait until a hurricane watch or warning is issued before stocking up on needed supplies.

You should have at least three days of supplies, including non-perishable food, drinking water, batteries, flashlights and a battery-powered radio. For those taking prescription medication, be sure your supply will last through an extended time period. It’s also wise to secure important papers, especially legal documents.

If we are hit hard by a hurricane, many other areas of the state will also be affected. Emergency services, therefore, may be hard pressed to meet all the needs of all the people out there. And please remember that protocol drives emergency responders to the places where their services are most needed.

Again, the key is preparation. As we all should know by now, during hurricane season, the better prepared we are, the better off we are.