Federal forecasters are predicting a busy hurricane season this year — three to six of them could be major hurricanes.

So how do you know if one is headed toward your community, and if so, how to prepare? There are maps and forecasts, but they’re often confusing. NPR climate reporter Rebecca Hersher explains how to avoid the most common mistakes.

Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.

This episode was produced by Brit Hanson, edited by Viet Le and fact-checked by Berly McCoy.

Short Wave Podcast

It’s science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join host Maddie Sofia for science on a different wavelength.