With four months remaining in the 2017 hurricane season, the Texas Department of Public Safety is reminding folks to prepare for the worst. DPS is suggesting residents evaluate their emergency plans and tune into weather forecasts for potential hurricanes and tropical storms.
August and September tend to be the busier months during hurricane season. Hurricane season began on June 1 and continues through Nov. 30.
Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage, with winds that can vary from 74 to 157 miles per hour. Hurricanes and tropical storms can also spawn tornadoes, create dangerous coastal water condition and cause damage from flooding.
Here are several measures residents can take now to prepare for potential storms:
- Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential documents, supplies and provisions.
- Review hurricane evacuation maps, and select a route for you and your family.
- Plan how all family members and pets will evacuate safely.
- Consider any special needs for individuals with disabilities or the elderly.
- Stay informed about changing weather conditions in and around your area.
- Follow the instructions of local officials if a storm develops.
If you or someone you know might need assistance during a disaster, register for the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) – a free registry that provides local emergency planners and responders with additional information about the needs in their communities. To register, contact 2-1-1 Texas, the state’s free 24-hour helpline. No matter where you live in Texas, you can dial 2-1-1 or (877) 541-7905 for community resources.
For more information about hurricanes and how to make sure you are prepared during the 2017 hurricane season, visit www.dps.texas.gov/dem/ThreatAwareness/hurricaneAwareness.htm andwww.texasprepares.org.
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