Just as hurricane season hits its peak, a storm is brewing in the Atlantic Ocean.

Right now it’s still called Invest-99L, but over the next week it could turn into a tropical depression or a storm, according to reports from the National Weather Service. 

Potentially, the Gulf Coast could be facing what would be known as Hurricane Hermine. 

After recent flooding in Louisiana, it makes sense for many people in our area to be worried about a potential natural disaster heading our way. After all, we are no strangers to them. 

It could be days or a week before we truly know the storm’s trajectory, but regardless, we should begin preparing. 

Stocking up on fresh water and non-perishable food for up to a week is a good start, but it’s the smaller things we don’t always think about. 

If power lines go down, so do gas station pumps and potentially cellphone towers as well.

If you don’t have a back up battery for your phone or a crank/battery radio, you may want to invest in those soon. 

No power means no air conditioning. 

We all know what it’s like to suffer the southern summer temperatures with no AC. Battery powered fans can help keep a breeze going and alleviate some of that oppressive heat. 

It’s been 11 years since Hurricane Katrina and many have said the Gulf Coast is long overdue for another major storm. 

If Hermine does makes its way to us, let’s make sure we are equipped. 

Even if this storm fizzles out and fades from our memories, it is always better to be prepared and not need it, than find yourself without vital resources in a time of disaster.