HARLINGEN – Specialists say the partial government shutdown is impacting hurricane season preparedness.

Harlingen resident Ralph Reyna says after experiencing Hurricane Dolly in 2008, he knows preparation is important.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, but Reyna says he knows it is never too early to prepare for hurricane season.

Reyna says he relies on the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service to keep him updated on the hurricane season.

He says the shutdown could have negative consequences on how well he prepares this year.

KRGV’s Cecilia Gutierrez spoke with National Hurricane Center Union steward and hurricane specialist Eric Blake.

Blake says a lot of personnel have been furloughed, which can have huge impacts on the Rio Grande Valley.

For more information, watch the video above.