AUSTIN—As summer sets in and the temperature continues to rise, so does the risk for hurricanes. The 2010 hurricane season, which officially began June 1, is predicted to be a busy one.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center forecasts that eight to fourteen hurricanes will form during the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season. Three to seven of those hurricanes could be major storms that reach Category 3 or higher. The greater likelihood of storms brings an increased risk of a landfall.

Data released by the Colorado State University hurricane forecast team predicts that the probability of a major hurricane making landfall along the U.S. coastline is 76 percent compared with the last-century average of 52 percent.

"Residents along the Gulf Coast and surrounding cities should have a hurricane preparedness plan in place now," urged Senator Glenn Hegar. "You can't control when a hurricane may happen, but you can make sure you're ready. With the increased threat of storms this season, early planning can mean the difference between life and death.

Hurricane preparedness tips include:

• Make alternative plans for critical care individuals who rely on electricity for life-sustaining equipment.
• Unplug sensitive electrical appliances, such as your computer.
• Have battery-powered radios, flashlights, non-perishable food, and portable generators available for use if necessary.
• If evacuation is inevitable, turn off your electricity at the circuit breaker.
• Do not turn off your gas at the meter. The gas meter should be left on to maintain proper pressure in the gas piping within the house and to prevent water from entering the lines should flooding occur.
• In the event of a power outage resulting from a hurricane, rest assured that professionals are working around the clock to restore your power. Providing information about downed power lines, electrical poles and trees can assist companies in restoring power in a more timely manner.
• Keep a copy of your homeowners insurance policy readily available. This can speed up the process of filing for a claim in the event that your home is damaged during the storm.

"As the state Senator for Senate District 18, I represent one-third of the Texas coast. Because so many coastal and surrounding counties would be directly impacted by a major hurricane, I stress the importance of hurricane preparedness. It is critical that a plan is in place in order to minimize the damage a devastating storm can have," said Senator Hegar.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30, but September 10 is the apex, the statistical "busiest" day of the season according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

For more information on how to prepare in the event of a hurricane please visit: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem .

Senator Hegar served two terms in the Texas House of Representatives and now represents Senate District 18 in the Texas Senate. Senate District 18 contains over one-third of the Texas coastline. He is a sixth generation Texan, and earns a living farming on land that has been in his family since the mid 1800's. He currently resides in Katy, Texas with his wife Dara, and their three children, Claire, Julia, and Jonah.