Sheltering people during COVID-19 will be difficult this hurricane season

Warmer ocean temperatures making for an active hurricane season

"The game is certainly not over," Webster said, adding that hurricane season peaks in August, September and October.

While no hurricanes have formed as of mid-July, the Atlantic has already had six named storms in 2020, and at least two have shattered records.

Similar to previous years, people could lose their homes due to flooding or wind damage, but sheltering victims during a pandemic will be difficult.

Social distancing strains available beds at Durham's homeless shelters

To reduce transmission of coronavirus, the American Red Cross has called for non-congregate sheltering if people are forced out of their homes during severe weather. Instead of housing hurricane victims in large, open spaces, officials are calling for people to be put in hotels, dormitories and classrooms, where they can be more easily separated.

"This is easier said than done," said Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry, who said his organization is already securing extra volunteers, stockpiling protective gear and coordinating with other emergency groups.

According to Sprayberry, some congregate shelters will have to be used, but those that open will have a minimum of 115 square feet per person. Because the people who usually run those shelters are at high risk from the virus, the state will rely on counties for help operating them.

During the pandemic, it will be essential to minimize unnecessary sheltering and evacuation, and Know Your Zone should help, Webster said. The website also features a hurricane guide, educational graphics and a frequently asked questions page.