Getting Ready For Houston Hurricane Season

This article comes to you a little late, as hurricane season starts June 1st. However, historically, Houston tends to suffer the wrath of tropical storms and hurricanes between August and November. It has been just over a year since Harvey flooded the greater Houston area, and left many Houstonians homeless. With this article, I want to make sure all of my readers are getting ready for Houston hurricane season.

Know Your Risk

All of Houston is in a flood zone, but you should know which zone you’re in, and what that means for you. You can visit the flood zone maps provided by FEMA or the Harris County Flood Education Mapping Tool. Even if you aren’t in a 100 year or 500 year flood zone, be aware that rising waters are common in Houston streets, and you never know when we’ll have to release waters from a retention area.

Know Your Evacuation Route

Be familiar with the streets in your area, and if they’re prone to flash flooding, know how you will get out of your neighborhood. Know now where the nearest shelter locations are. Make an evacuation plan, include your pets, and practice your evacuation plan. Sign up for local alerts and know where to get more information about the weather. One of my favorite resources when anticipating a storm is Space City Weather. These guys kept Houstonians informed and updated leading up to and well after Harvey made landfall.

Assemble a Hurricane Kit

After Harvey, it is strongly recommended that you have a water-proof kit for documents and medications. Things to include in your kit are water, non-perishable foods, batteries, flash lights, first aid supplies, whistles, garbage bags, sleeping bags, blankets, a wrench, a can-opener, medications, cash, pet food, cell phones and back up batteries/chargers, infant supplies, important documents, and so much more. Find a more comprehensive list here. Keep a kit in your home, and in your car, in case you’re stranded.

Prepare Financially

Start an emergency savings fund, and check into your insurance coverage. Keep in mind that homeowners insurance does not cover flood, or any natural disaster. All Houstonians should have flood insurance, even if they’re not required to purchase it. $500 is a small price to pay for peace of mind. One of my favorite insurance agents is Mark Rafail of Farmer’s Insurance. He can make sure you’re covered! If you are a UH alum (go Coogs!), reach out to Cass Moore of Goosehead for your flood insurance needs.

Prepare Your Home

Check your home for areas where water can get in, and make sure they’re properly sealed. Clear gutters and drains. Trim trees, secure loose outdoor items, and clear other debris. Think about where you can store your car to protect it from the storm. Check the coverage on your vehicle too! Most auto policies do not cover flood.

Help Your Neighbors

Become acquainted with your neighbors, and make sure they have a hurricane preparedness plan too. Share contact information and be available to check in with each other. Share your plan with others, and let loved ones know how you will stay in touch with them. Take photos of all important documents.

Honestly, this list is simply the basics. There are so many more things you can do to make sure you’re fully prepared for a hurricane. Check out this article from Ready.gov. Do you have questions? Do you have suggestions to add to this list? Leave your comments below.