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Hurricane Preparedness

Texas ranks second to Florida in the number of hurricanes it experiences yearly, making hurricane preparedness a vital part of South Texans' lives.

Here we provide resources for three specific stages of a hurricane weather event:

Hurricane Preparedness

Evacuation

When a hurricane may bring a heavy threat to the regions, evacuations could be issued. They may be voluntary or mandatory.

Voluntary Evacuation

  • Storm surge zones during hurricanes or tropical storms: If forecasts indicate significant surge, residents are advised to leave ahead of any mandatory orders
  • Flood-prone areas during heavy rains or river overflow: For example, neighborhoods along the east and west forks of the San鈥疛acinto River (like Kingwood, Forest Cove, North Houston) are often included in voluntary evacuations in anticipation of rising waters
  • Before situations escalate: Emergency management may first issue a voluntary order as a "heads-up" to signal that it is time to consider moving to safety.

Mandatory Evacuation

  • Imminent catastrophic flooding in high-risk zones
  • Disaster declaration activated
  • The safety of first responders is at risk 

In the case that you do have to evacuate, find Houston evacuation resources .

Recovery Resources

Recovery from a widespread weather event like a hurricane can take weeks or even months. It's important to know what resources are available.

Key Resources for Harris County

Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM)

  • Offers disaster alerts, recovery updates, and local assistance information

Houston 311 or Harris County

  • Call 713-755-5000 to report damage, request debris pickup, or ask about local assistance

FEMA Assistance

  • 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)

  • For federal disaster aid, temporary housing, and repairs

Red Cross – Greater Houston Chapter

  • Offers shelter, food, medical support, and casework assistance

Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM)

  • Supports state-level response, recovery grants, and hazard mitigation info

United Way of Greater Houston – 2-1-1 Texas/United Way HELPLINE

  • Dial 2-1-1 (available 24/7)

  • Help finding food, shelter, mental health services, and financial recovery resources

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs)

  • Set up temporarily after major disasters

  • Check or  for current locations in Harris County.

Hurricane Recovery Tips

Prioritize Safety First

  • Stay out of floodwaters they may contain debris, sewage, or electrical hazards.

  • Avoid using wet electrical appliances or entering damaged buildings until cleared.

  • Watch out for mold growth. Ventilate and dry areas as soon as possible.

Document All Damage

  • Take photos and videos of any damage before starting cleanup or repairs.

  • Keep receipts for any expenses related to temporary repairs or lodging.

File Insurance Claims Promptly

  • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process.

  • Be prepared to provide evidence of damage and an inventory of lost or damaged items.

Seek Shelter or Assistance If Needed

  • If your home is uninhabitable, contact the Red Cross or local emergency shelters.

Protect Your Health

  • Wear gloves, boots, and masks when cleaning up debris or mold.

  • Drink clean water (boil if unsure), and dispose of spoiled food safely.

Check for Local Recovery Resources

  • Listen to local news or official social media accounts for updates on relief, curfews, or debris pickup schedules.


For more general information on hurricanes, see our hurricane information page:

General Hurricane Information

Page last updated 5:01 PM, July 18, 2025