New to Texas? Let's Talk Hurricanes.

Texas is part of the Atlantic hurricane season that starts June 1st and goes through November 1st. The first year moving to Texas, especially along the Gulf Coast Region, can be very intimidating when you've never experienced a storm like a Hurricane or even a Tropical Storm. Here are a few resources for you and your family to become well prepared and ready to take on whatever the Gulf Coast throws your way. 

Prepare for Hurricanes

Know Your Hurricane Risk

Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water and even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. 

Make an Emergency Plan

Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plans. This includes travel, where you'll stay and how many days out from the storm will you be leaving if that is a part of your families plan.

Know your Evacuation Zone

You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuations routes and practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay. 

•  Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.

Recognize Warnings and Alerts

Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide or sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up.

Those with Disabilities

Identify if you may need additional help during an emergency if you or anyone else in your household is an individual with a disability. First Responders may not be able to reach you during the storm to help with your family members with disabilities so a plan needs to be in place before evacuations might occur.

Review Important Documents

Make sure your insurance policies are up to date and you have all of your important documents such as ID, birth certificates, social security cards, medical insurance, etc. Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space.

Strengthen your Home

De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, and consider hurricane shutters.

Get Tech Ready

Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics. 

Help your Neighborhood

Check with neighbors, senior adults or those who may need help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others. It takes a community!

Gather Supplies

Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.

Click on the above picture to go to Ready.Gov for additional Resources.