Texas Hurricane Season Preparations
When does hurrican season start?
Hurricane season officially started June 1 and runs through Nov. 30, the six-month period when most activity in the tropics generally occurs. Hurricanes can bring devastating winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding, posing significant risks to life and property. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare effectively, ensuring you and your family stay safe during these powerful storms.
Prepare for the storm
Make a plan. Protect people, property and pets.
Protect People
Put together an emergency supply kit.
Watch a video on how to build a Go-Kit.
Create a communication plan with your family.
Review evacuation routes.
Find a local shelter, e.g. Red Cross Shelters.
Visit Drivetexas.org for flooded roads and conditions.
Sign up for your community or county warning system. Follow local weather alerts.
Important Phone Numbers:
2-1-1 for shelter, food and disaster services
7-1-1 for Relay Texas Service
1-800-452-9292 for TxDOT statewide road closures
1-800-525-5555 for roadside assistance
Protect Property
Know flood risks in your area.
Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. Homeowners policies do not cover flooding. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect, so the time to buy is well before a disaster.
Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Protect Pets
Make preparations for your pets and livestock.
During the storm
Pay Attention to Emergency Alerts. Stay safe.
If local officials tell you to evacuate, do so immediately.
Determine how best to protect yourself from high winds and flooding.
Take refuge in a designated storm shelter or an interior room for high winds.
Go to highest level of the building if you are trapped by flooding. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising flood water.
Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Remember: Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
After storm
Shelter & Safety
Red Cross - find an open shelter
Red Cross Safe & Well - to register yourself as “Safe and Well” or search for loved ones online
Returning Home
Drivetexas.org - flooded roads and conditions. Remember: Turn Around Don’t Drown!
TCEQ - information for public water systems, household debris management, safe drinking water
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs - disaster relief resources
Texas Department of Insurance - help after the storm
Office of Public Insurance Counsel - about residential property insurance claims
TDLR - recovery resources for licensees
Long-Term Disaster Recovery Toolkit for Individuals with Disabilities
Ready.gov - returning home after a hurricane