WESLACO – City officials and attorneys across the Rio Grande Valley are urging people to be prepared as hurricane season begins.

The Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid held a press conference about hurricane preparedness on Thursday.

The organization stressed how important it is to have flood insurance before a storm hits. They also advised to document any damages sustained during a storm and keep it as proof.

According to a representative with the Equal Voice Housing Working Group, half of the people who apply for aid from FEMA are denied.

TRLA attorney Linley Boone Almaguer told CHANNEL 5 NEWS homeowners should always have current photos of their home.

“To prove that damage was caused by a storm, you’re going to want to show that prior to the storm that damage wasn’t there, and that becomes very critical in insurance and FEMA matters,” she said.

People are also advised to take pictures and video after damage is done and before repairs are made.