Monitoring:

Monitoring tropical storms allows predictions to be made, which can reduce damage through increased preparation.
The Global Precipitation Measurement was launched in 2004 to monitor precipitation in tropical regions.
NASA Global Hawk Drones monitor tropical storms to improve forecasting models.

Prediction:

New supercomputers can now give 5 days warning for storms and can give an accurate location within 400km.
National Hurricane Centers can predict a storm's path relatively accurately and determine the behaviour of the storm before it hits land.

Planning:

Homeowners in vulnerable areas are urged to install hurricane straps between the roof and walls, install storm shutters on windows, install an emergency generator, and remove trees close to buildings to protect their homes.
Trees can reduce wind energy and trap debris that would cause damage, but can also cause damage if uprooted.
Coastal flooding defences such as levees and flood walls can be put in place.
Individual planning of disaster supply kits and evacuation schemes can aid protection.

Tropical Storms