(NewsUSA) - Storm seasons are getting stronger, longer, and more unpredictable. Whether it’s a thunderstorm knocking out neighborhood power lines, a tornado carving through a region, or a major hurricane threatening the coast, extreme weather can leave millions of Americans in the dark with little warning.

National forecasters are pointing to another above-average hurricane season in 2025, and experts are urging homeowners across the country, not just in coastal areas, to take action now. From spoiled groceries and flooded basements to sweltering homes and equipment failures, power outages can quickly go from inconvenient to dangerous.

In 2024, the U.S. experienced nearly 1.5 billion hours of power outages – the highest year since 2010 when Generac first started tracking this figure.

Now, just one year after Colorado State University predicted a record-breaking Atlantic hurricane season, 2025 is expected to be nearly as powerful with an anticipated above-average season. Now is the time to prepare with a plan to protect your loved ones and your home. This season is predicted to be an above-average hurricane season with an expected nine hurricanes. Four hurricanes are expected to reach major hurricane strength of a Category 3 or higher storm, which creates sustained winds of 111 miles or greater and the great risk of significant loss of life and property damage. But whether you're in the path of a hurricane, a derecho in the Midwest, or ice storms in the Northeast, the reality is clear: every home is vulnerable to outages.

“For many people, the first time they learn about backup power is when they’re already in a crisis,” said Kyle Raabe, president of Consumer Power at Generac Power Systems, a global energy technology company. “Having a plan before severe weather strikes can make a major difference in safety, comfort, and peace of mind.”

Five Ways to Prepare for Power Outages - No Matter Where You Live

Power outage experts from Generac have provided tips on how to prepare for any storm-induced power outages during hurricane season and beyond:

1. Create a Storm Safety Plan. Identify the safest spot in your home to shelter in place. Review local evacuation routes and establish a meeting location for family members in case you're separated or need to evacuate.
2. Build a Real Emergency Kit. Stock up on essentials: at least seven days of non-perishable food per person, three gallons of water per person, a fully stocked first aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, and necessary medications.
3. Stay Connected During Chaos. Keep phones and electronics fully charged before a storm. Have a battery-powered emergency radio on hand to stay up to date with local alerts and weather updates.
4. Secure Backup Power. Consider investing in a portable generator or a whole-home standby system. If you already own one, ensure it’s maintained and ready. Backup power can keep lights on, refrigerators running, operating.
5. Know How to Use Generators Safely. Never operate a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces. Keep it far from your home, away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide exposure.

It Only Takes One Storm

While forecasts grab headlines with big numbers, the truth is that it only takes one storm in the right place to cause life-altering damage. Power grid reliability is already a concern in many parts of the U.S., and storm-related outages are expected to rise with climate shifts.

To help residents and communities prepare, Generac offers readiness resources, including its Hurricane Preparedness Guide that has printable inventory checklists, comparisons on backup power options and power outage safety tips, available at https://www.generac.com/hurricane-prep.