May I also suggest getting a ham radio general class license and battery-powered HF radio with antenna?

Even if they're not in an affected area, hams can provide assistance through the Hurricane Watch Net (http://www.hwn.org/) on HF radio. The Web site gives excellent instructions on how to operate on the net, especially useful if you're in an affected area. If you're without power and can't get local news and weather reports for some reason, having a mobile HF station will get you what you need.

If you are out of the effected area, you can pass on health and welfare traffic, damage reports, etc.