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.
“With the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season quickly approaching, residents should take the time to prepare now,” said Harris County Emergency Management Coordinator Mark Sloan. “Readiness takes all of us working together, and every person plays a role. Use these next few weeks to create your disaster supply kit, develop a personalized plan, and register for alerts.”
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 only takes one storm to severely impact our community. While we can’t stop them from forming, we can take steps now to be better prepared,” 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 AlertsorReady Harris Accessible Alerts and text GULF2026 to 888777 for 2026 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.
