With the start of the 2015 hurricane season today, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is calling for a below-normal season in the Atlantic Ocean.

In its forecast released on Wednesday, NOAA predicts a 70 percent chance for 6-11 named storms, 3-6 of which could become hurricanes, including 0-2 major hurricanes.

“A below-normal season doesn’t mean we’re off the hook. As we’ve seen before, below-normal seasons can still produce catastrophic impacts to communities,” said NOAA Administrator Kathyrn Sullivan, Ph. D.

South Floridians are well aware of the dangers of not preparing in a below-normal season.

1992 was not expected to be an active hurricane season, but Miami-Dade County was pummeled by Hurricane Andrew in what was the costliest storm to ever hit the area.

“It only takes one hurricane or tropical storm making landfall in your community to significantly disrupt your life,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Joseph Nimmich. “Everyone should take action now to prepare themselves and their families for hurricanes and powerful storms. Develop a family communications plan, build an emergency supply kit for your home, and take time to learn evacuation routes for your area. Knowing what to do ahead of time can literally save your life and help you bounce back stronger and faster should disaster strike in your area.”