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The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) is a regional partner in disaster planning in our 13-county region. Our mission is to help residents and communities preparing for, acting during, and recovering from hurricanes or other natural disasters.
Before a Storm: Pre-Season Planning
Preparation begins long before a storm enters the Gulf. This is the time to gather supplies, secure documents, and plan your evacuation routes.
Be ready: Take these three steps to prepare before the next storm.
Step 1: Have a Plan
Planning is critical for a fast, safe response. Be sure to address your family’s unique needs, especially those for vulnerable members and pets.
Build Your Kit
Create an emergency supply kit with non-perishable food, water, and essential supplies for at least three days.
Prepare for Pets
Create a specific disaster kit for them and arranging for a safe place to stay, such as a pet-friendly shelter or a boarding facility, well ahead of an evacuation order.
Prepare Special Populations
Individuals with special medical needs, disabilities, or who are elderly should have a detailed plan. Residents who may need extra help during an evacuation are encouraged to sign up for the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR).
Know Your Zone
Understanding and knowing your evacuation zone (Coastal, A, B, or C) helps ensure a safe and timely evacuation. Make sure your Hurricane Evacuation Zone Map and Evacuation Route Map have the current year’s date.
For those residing in the Coastal Zone, it is especially important to review evacuation routes ahead of time.
During the Storm: Immediate Action & Response
When a tropical threat is imminent, your actions must be immediate, safe, and guided by official orders.
Step 3: Stay Informed
Monitor official orders and updates through local news, radio, and trusted weather sources. You should only evacuate if you live in a storm surge evacuation zone and are explicitly ordered to do so. Below are some of the instructions you may hear and what they mean:
Shelter-in-Place
If you are not ordered to evacuate, prepare to shelter-in-place: stay indoors, away from windows, and secure valuables.
Voluntary Evacuation
This order is issued as a recommendation or advisory for individuals to leave an area that could be affected by a disaster.
Mandatory Evacuation
Issued when there is immediate danger. Do not delay. Follow the designated Evacuation Route Map and directions from local authorities.
After the Storm: Recovery
Safety remains a top priority even after a storm passes. Follow instructions from local authorities regarding when it is safe to return. H-GAC provides vital resources for the recovery phase:
Assess Damage Safely
- Do not enter damaged buildings until officials confirm it is safe.
- Avoid downed power lines and standing water.
- Use caution when walking through debris or dark areas.
Bringing Supplies In
If you evacuated outside the area, when you return you may find that certain supplies and resources are in short supply. Consider bringing essentials such as:
- Water and non-perishable food
- First aid supplies
- Batteries and flashlights
- Personal hygiene items
Be sure to refill medications and fuel before returning to the area.
Documenting Damage for Insurance
- Take clear photos and videos of all damage before starting cleanup.
- Make a detailed list of damaged or lost items including approximate values and purchase dates.
- Keep receipts for:
- Emergency repairs
- Temporary housing
- Supplies purchased after a disaster
- Contact your insurance company promptly and follow their instructions to file a claim.
Follow Local Debris Removal Guidelines
- Dispose of debris according to local regulations.
- Separate hazardous materials, electronics, and recyclables as instructed.
- Follow any scheduled pickup dates or designated drop-off locations to help your community recover safely and efficiently.
H-GAC Disaster Recovery Resources and Funding
Access to a comprehensive list of resources tailored to support emergency and disaster recoveries.
Find Local Hurricane Preparedness Resources
| County | Emergency Management |
|---|---|
| Austin County, TX | Austin County OEM |
| Brazoria County, TX | Brazoria County Emergency Management Brazoria County |
| Chambers County, TX | Chambers County Office of Emergency Management |
| Fort Bend County, TX | Ready Fort Bend: Homeland Security & Emergency Management |
| Galveston County, TX | Galveston County Office of Emergency Management |
| Harris County, TX | ReadyHarris (Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management) |
| Matagorda County, TX | Matagorda County Emergency Management |
| Montgomery County, TX | Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management Montgomery County |
Your Hurricane Plan Starts Now
Preparing today helps keep your family, property, and community safe during hurricane season. Download your guides, know your zone, and make your plan.
For questions regarding Hurricane Preparedness and Evacuation Planning, contact:
Francis Rodriguez
[email protected]
713-993-2437
Hurricane Preparedness Guide
Let this guide empower you to face the storm with confidence and resilience.
Supplement Guide
Download 2025 Supplement Guide for Seniors & Special Populations.
