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The Beaufort County Office of Emergency Services announced Monday that it is monitoring several weather systems that could affect the area this week, and encouraged everyone to make sure they have the resources necessary to prepare for and deal with any outcomes of severe weather.

The three systems Deputy Emergency Services Director Chris Newkirk referenced in an email Monday are the potential formation of a tropical storm just northeast of the Bahamas, remnants of Tropical Storm Nicholas, and an approaching cold front from the northwest U.S.

The Office of Emergency Services emphasized several main points people should focus on in terms of storm preparedness, including:

·      Make sure you have a preparedness kit that includes enough essentials such as food, water and medications to accommodate each member of your household for at least five days, and prepare for possible power and water outages;

·      Have an evacuation plan that is “Independent as possible,” and doesn’t rely on the opening of public shelters;

·      Make a safety plan for any pets and livestock you own, one that also doesn’t rely on public assistance.

“Please help us by ensuring that you, your family, friends and neighbors are prepared to endure whatever the remainder of this hurricane season may bring our way,” Newkirk wrote.