Living near the Texas Gulf Coast, the need for hurricane preparation can’t be overstated. Once again, officials predict an “above-normal” Atlantic hurricane season for 2025.
“We can most certainly expect an active hurricane season, but we never know if storms will come directly at Houston,” said Scott Patlovich, DrPH, assistant vice president of environmental health and safety at UTHealth Houston. “Regardless, we absolutely must remain prepared both in the workplace and at home.”
Understanding risks
The history of hurricanes in Texas is a stark reminder of nature’s power. With predictions of an active season ahead, understanding the risks is crucial. This could mean more frequent and potentially more intense storms.
“The biggest problems from the last two storms (the derecho in May 2024 and Hurricane Beryl) resulted from power outages, so I think we should all be prepared for more of the same,” said Bryan C. Evans, MBA, risk manager with UTHealth Houston. “It’s good to have friends in multiple locations throughout the city and/or suburbs, so if the power is out in Katy, for example, you could go to a friend’s house that does have power.”
Preparing early
Evans said the best way to stay safe during hurricane season is to be prepared. Early hurricane preparation is vital, as storms can form quickly, depleting local stores of essential supplies. Stocking up on water, food, and plywood, as well as having a personal and family emergency plan, are key steps.
If individuals could only afford three hurricane-related purchases this season, Evans recommends the following: 1) portable phone charger, 2) canned or nonperishable food for five to seven days, and 3) water for five to seven days per person.
Patlovich emphasizes the importance of not waiting until the last minute to scramble for supplies. He also said to plan for the possibility of an extended event.
“Never underestimate the length of a storm and its lasting impacts,” Patlovich said. “Several days after Hurricane Harvey, it was hard to find basic necessities due to supply chain interruptions, such as gas and food.”
Building a hurricane kit
A hurricane kit should include:
Prepping home and property
Protecting your home from a storm involves securing windows with plywood and checking the integrity of the roof and walls. This type of hurricane preparation is especially important for living on the Gulf Coast. Flood insurance is also a critical consideration for homeowners, but it doesn’t go into effect until 30 days after you buy it.
Planning your evacuation
Plan evacuation routes in advance, with special considerations for those requiring assistance. Print out any necessary maps and navigation to avoid relying on digital communication.
“Make a plan of what you will do to protect your family and property if a storm is headed this way,” said Evans.
Staying informed
Keeping weather aware is essential. Resources for up-to-date information include local news, weather apps, and the National Hurricane Center.
Patlovich recommends erring on the side of caution to keep yourself and your family safe.
“It can’t be overemphasized enough,” Patlovich said. “If we have a flooding event, never enter a flooded roadway.”
Now it’s time to put this hurricane planning into action! Use the recommended resources, as needed.
Resources
National Hurricane Center
Hurricane Preparedness and Evacuation Planning (Houston-Galveston Area Council)
National Weather Service
Houston Transtar
Metro
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