NBC 17

The threat of Hurricane Irene comes just about four months after tornadoes devastated parts of North Carolina.

“When the wind started coming and the house started shaking, I mean it was a rather emotional experience, knowing that so much devastation was going on in this area,” said Adam Smith, who lives on Springfield Creek Drive.

He and others in North Raleigh are still cleaning up from April’s tornadoes. Now they have to think about Hurricane Irene.

“Just make sure we have flashlights and batteries and that kind of thing. Of course worry for neighbors,” said Smith’s wife, Leslie.

The Smiths still have to replace the cap on their roof - the last of the tornado damage in their home - before Irene gets to North Carolina.

They also plan to have plywood and nails handy just in case they need to board up windows.

Experts say that's exactly what they should do.

“Sometimes people will tape their windows, hoping that that’s going to help them. But it really doesn’t,” said Mark England, a water restoration expert with AdvantaClean Environmental.

Other tips from :

- Make sure your insurance policy covers flood and hurricane damage. It may not. Read the policy and talk to insurance agent.

-Check your home thoroughly for water damage after the hurricane. If the water does not dry within 48 hours, mold could appear. That makes repairs more difficult and expensive.

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