While a lower number of hurricanes is expected in 2014, they won't be necessarily weaker storms, so preparation is still essential.

As communities are banding together to help those impacted by recent tornados, local governments are looking at their shelter, emergency, and evacuation plans and wondering if their citizens are ready for tornado and hurricane seasons.

Auburn Hills, Michigan is a 31-year-old, growing community with an unusual tax base breakdown of 80 percent commercial and 20 percent residential.