As the 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season began Wednesday, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and state emergency management officials reminded Connecticut residents to be prepared for any severe weather that may impact the state.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, with the principal threat period for Connecticut occurring from mid-August to mid-October.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Atlantic hurricane season forecast is calling for 10 to 16 named storms, four to eight hurricanes and one to four major hurricanes this year.

“One single hurricane or tropical storm can have a lasting impact on our state – it’s time to prepare,” Malloy said in a news release.

“We urge all residents to take three simple preparedness steps: get a kit, make a plan, and stay informed," he said. "These three steps will help to ready everyone for any weather emergency you may encounter.”

Dora Schriro, commissioner of the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, urged residents to become acquainted now with weather hazards that can occur in their communities — including storm surges, flood-prone areas and expected road and bridge closures.

“If a storm is approaching your area, monitor weather reports carefully and follow all of the instructions provided by public safety officials,” she said.

Residents are advised to keep these items in an emergency supply kit:

• one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

• at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food

• battery-powered or hand crank radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

• flashlight and extra batteries

• first aid kit

• a whistle to signal for help

• moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

• wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• a manual can opener for food

• local maps

• cellphone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Families also are urged to create a family emergency plan, which should identify an out-of-town contact.

People should be aware that it may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members.

Every family member should know the phone number and have a cellphone, coins or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact.

Cellphones should be programmed with the emergency contact as "ICE" (In Case of Emergency). In case of an accident, emergency personnel will often check ICE listings in order to contact someone the victim knows.

The individuals named as emergency contacts should be informed.

In addition, all family members should be taught how to use text messaging. Text messages often can get around network disruptions when a phone call might not be able to get through.

People also are advised to subscribe to alert services.

Visit www.ct.gov/ctalert to register for emergency alerts.