The official hurricane season in Hawaii is from June 1 to Nov. 30. Commercially bottled water is good for up to six months. Anyone who buys water in early June can feel safe that his or her water supply will last until the end of the season.

Alternatively, one can use tap water at home to fill containers while the taps are still working, even a day before a hurricane is scheduled to hit. Other items on the hurricane preparedness supplies list can be purchased at any time.

Those complaining about hoarding during a hurricane event can avoid their frustration by preparing for hurricane season early. The exception, of course, is those homeless people who have nowhere to store their emergency supplies. Perhaps you can stock up a few extra things for the less fortunate. Hurricanes are annual events, part of the price of living in paradise. We should all be grateful we get warnings early and often.

James Metz

Makiki