It’s here for six months, June 1-November 30
Hurricane season is here! In the event of a powerful rainstorm or hurricane, you could be without basic utilities, such as electricity, water, gas, phone, and Internet for three days or more. Additionally, subsequent flooding can restrict access, to roadways making it difficult to get food or medicine. Preparing in advance now will help you cope with the loss of necessities.
Unfortunately, being unprepared is risky. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting another above-normal Atlantic Hurricane Season, though not the historic level of storm activity seen in 2020.
However, it does not take a hurricane or even a tropical storm, to cause power outages or flooding in our community. For people new to Harris County and have not experienced a hurricane season along the Gulf Coast, or long-time residents who need a refresher, Harris County Public Health has tips to help you prepare before, during and after a storm.
Quick disaster preparation items to have on hand:
- Water: one gallon per person per day, for five days
- Five-day supply of non-perishable food
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Cash (in case you lose power and ATMs are not available)
- Copies of important documents in a sealable waterproof bag
- Medicine: five-day supply of any medication you take regularly. Also, include any accessories you need for that medication like a pill splitter, syringes, glucose monitors, etc.
- Communicate and have a plan with your family
- Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy
Find a list of common necessary items to include in your disaster supplies kit, safety tips for power outages, and how to remove mold if your home floods by accessing the following link:https://publichealth.harriscountytx.gov/Resources/Preparedness-Extreme-Weather.
For pet owners, weather emergencies require some additional planning and supplies to ensure your beloved pet is safe. Visit https://publichealth.harriscountytx.gov/Resources/Animals-and-Pets/Animals-Disaster.
To keep up to date on latest hurricane season information and current storm updates, evacuation zones and routes, visit https://www.readyharris.org/.