Hurricane season is officially underway and experts say having an emergency kit ready is one of the most important steps people can take.

Experts say a basic kit should include a portable charger, batteries, a flashlight and non-perishable items. Anyone who takes medication should add that to the kit as well.

"Once a storm is assigned a name and if you are not prepared, you are going to play catch-up from there until the storm actually makes landfall," Alamo Fire Department Chief R.C. Flores said. "Always be prepared before the storm actually happens."

People should also have a list of contact information, important documents and an evacuation plan ready.

WATCH: Facing the Fury 2026 hurricane special