Harris County, Texas – The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) reminds residents that National Hurricane Preparedness Week has begun. Residents are encouraged to begin pre-season preparations before the start of hurricane season on June 1st.
“The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season is less than one month away. Now is the time for everyone to take the steps they need to prepare,” said Harris County Emergency Management Coordinator Mark Sloan. “Being prepared is a shared responsibility. While the county continues to work year-round in disaster planning and preparedness efforts, everyone should prepare themselves and their families.”
HCOHSEM is promoting National Hurricane Preparedness Week by sharing preparedness tips on Facebook, X and Instagram and is encouraging all residents to know their risks and plan for their families’ individual needs. Help Harris County be prepared by:
- Preparing your home. Take time to strengthen your home prior to severe weather. Secure loose objects outside of your home and weatherproof the exterior.
- Buying flood insurance. Homeowners, renters and business owners are encouraged to buy flood insurance through their insurance agent. Residents who may already have coverage should check the status of their policy to be sure it has not lapsed. Remember that flood insurance policies from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) normally carry a 30-day waiting period and are not sold when there is an active tropical cyclone in the Gulf. For more information, visit www.FloodSmart.gov.
- Knowing your weather terms. Weather terms have different meanings and require specific actions. Do you know the difference between a warning, watch, advisory, and outlook?
- Knowing your evacuation zone. Residents who live in an evacuation zone need to learn their evacuation routes and follow instructions from local authorities. To determine if your home is located in an evacuation zone, check the Zip Zone Evacuation Map.
- Keeping your gas tank at least half full. If an evacuation is ordered, gas stations may be closed. Make sure you have enough fuel to reach your destination.
- Signing up with the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) online or calling 2-1-1 to register. STEAR is a free service available to residents with access and functional needs, and individuals who may need transportation assistance.
“It is important to personalize your emergency kit and develop a plan that fits your family’s needs, as well as stay informed during the hurricane season,” added Sloan.
The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begins June 1 and lasts through November 30. Stay informed by following HCOHSEM updates at www.ReadyHarris.org, on social media, and by signing up for Ready Harris Alerts or Ready Harris Accessible Alerts and text GULF2025 to 888777 for 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season updates.
About HCOHSEM
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is the Director of the Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management, a national model of best practices in emergency planning, preparation, response, and recovery. HCOHSEM helps prepare, safeguard, and protect the residents and property of Harris County from the effects of disasters through effective planning, preparation, response, and recovery activities.