Goodbye, cracked Earth and brown grass. Hello, umbrellas and Wellies and sandbags. El Nino is here.

Most models indicate that the current storm system will continue through winter, bringing potential record rains to California over the next three months. The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center says this El Nino will rank among the “three strongest episodes…dating back to 1950.”

With the potential for dangerous storms, floods, and other weather-related dangers, it’s imperative to prepare properly. Follow these tips to protect yourself, your loved ones and your property.

1. Do a Thorough Check of Your Home’s Perimeter

You might not be aware of problem areas that could cause water to pool. Sandbags are a great defense against water that’s threatening to get inside and damage your home.

2. Check for Roof Leaks

If it’s safe, climb up (or hire a professional) to check your roof. It’s much better to know where problem areas exist ahead of time than end up with a houseful of ruined stuff.

3. Address Your Gutters

Rough storms could result in leaves and branches in your gutters, if they’re not there already. Adapting gutters and downspouts can also help guide water coming off the roof in the right direction.

4. Reevaluate Your Insurance

Do you have flood insurance? If not, you might want to make a phone call to your agent. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has recommended that Californians buy flood insurance, “even if they live in areas of low to moderate risk.”

Keep in mind that new policies have a 30-day waiting period before they take effect.

5. Have Some Cash on Hand

We’re all used to being able to use our ATM or credit card for pretty much anything, so you might not be in the habit of carrying cash. In an emergency situation like a stalled car or a weather-related emergency during a power outage, having an emergency stash of cash can be a lifesaver. If your local stores lose power, they may stay open but credit card readers won’t work.

6. Charge It!

This is a good time to test the batteries in your flashlights and remote controls, and buy more. Additionally, make sure you have a backup power source for your cell phone; a couple of battery-operated or solar powered chargers on hand is helpful. It’s also a great time to locate chargers and plugs in laptops, games and anything else that can keep kids entertained when the power goes out. If you’re in an area that is prone to losing power during storms (or you just can’t bear being powered down for a period of time), a power generator may be the answer.

7. Stock up on Supplies

Do you even have an umbrella in the house? What about a tarp? Plastic buckets are another must-have just in case your roof leaks.

Beyond supplies to control water seeping into your home or onto your person, you’ll want to make sure you have sufficient emergency kits in the house. Kits should include items like bottled water, protein-rich, non-perishable foods, batteries, a flashlight or glow sticks, external chargers, medications and first aid supplies and pet supplies.

8. Watch Out for Fido

If you have pets in your home, in addition to making sure they have enough food and any necessary medications, make sure your pet is wearing an ID tag or is microchipped. Animals tend to get scared during storms and can run off. If you commute to/from work, designate an emergency pet sitter who lives and works nearby in case you can’t get home due to weather-related road conditions.