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Stay informed - Storms are unpredictable and they can increase or decrease in intensity at any time, so it's important to keep up to date. Radio, TV, government departments, and weather forecast services are good places to keep up to date.

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Keep away from the windows - Your home may be the safest place to be, but stay away from windows, vents, and glass doors.

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Where to hide - According to the School of Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island, the best place to be if a strong storm or hurricane strikes is an indoor room, closet, or bathroom on the ground floor.

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Use apps - Apps like MyRadar tracks storms in real-time and keep you informed of the intensity, amount of rain, and anticipated duration.

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Reinforce doors - If your doors have multiple locks, take advantage of them and, if possible, reinforce with furniture to avoid them being forced open.

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Have a high-frequency radio - Stay on top of alerts with evacuation notifications. A weather radio with battery will provide alerts without needing access to WiFi or cellphone signal.

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Prepare your outside space - Clear your outdoor area of furniture and other items. Take out trash cans, barbecue grills, potted plants, and anything else that might be moved by the storm and hinder your mobility.

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Protect the windows - Invest in storm shutters or nail boards over your windows as reinforcement.

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Mind the trees - Check if nearby trees have dead or loose branches that may fall with the winds. If so, trim the branches before the storm hits.

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Check rain gutters and the roof - Make sure gutters are stable and clean to avoid drainage problems and possible flooding during periods of heavy rains. Also make sure that your roof is secure and sealed.

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Give special attention to the garage - If you have a garage, the door is vulnerable to strong winds. Consider what might be moved by pressure or wind and secure items accordingly.

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Have a generator - A generator can keep the lights on in the event of a power outage. It's important to remember not to use it indoors.

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Make sure the house is secure - Heavy storms can lead to flooding, which can destroy your home. Have a professional survey your property for weaknesses and offer flood-proofing solutions.

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Strengthen weak points - Check these four crucial areas: the roof, windows, doors, and the garage door. Ensuring these areas are secure will block winds from entering the house and weakening its structure.

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Have your car ready - Be prepared for evacuation.

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Car maintenance - Make sure your car has a full fuel tank, the windshield wipers work, the tire pressure is correct, and the windows are completely intact.

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Stock up on food - Keep supplies of food that won't expire. Cans and dried foods are good.

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Have a basic emergency kit - The basic items to survive comfortably for three days are: water, food, battery or crank radio, weather radio, flashlight, first aid kit, whistle, plastic bags, screwdriver, can opener, maps, and cell phone with battery backup.

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Emergency suitcase - A waterproof emergency bag can save your personal belongings. Don't forget the phone chargers, cash, maps, and important documents.

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Be prepared - To find out if your area is at risk, check with the appropriate bodies or the Flood Map Service Center and start to prepare.

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Put your furniture higher - If you know the storm is coming, move all possible items to a higher floor or consider raising the ground floor with hardwood or concrete blocks and placing appliances and furniture on top of the structure.

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Turn the power off - In a flood scenario, it is advisable to switch off the breaker to avoid damage, electric shocks, and short circuits.

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Natural disaster insurance - If you have life insurance, check your policy. It might cover temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable or needs to be replaced after a storm.

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Plan where you're going - Some houses don't have the structure to face strong storms. In case of evacuation it's good to have a safe place to go with your family.

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Freeze some water before you leave - Freeze a mug of water and place a coin on top. If the ice has thawed and the coin is at the bottom when you return, you know that the freezer lost energy for a while and the items may not be safe for consumption.

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The freezer - If your freezer isn't full, freeze some gallons of water and packaged food that can keep you going on your return.

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Don't forget your pets - Make sure all pets are indoors during bad weather. Find out which hotels accept pets in case it becomes necessary to evacuate.

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Look for a place for your animal -

Many emergency shelters can't house pets, so it's important to consider getting your pet to friends or family in areas that have not been affected.

See also: Nature's warning signs before disaster strikes

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