As hurricane season approaches, the Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) has released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting a year marked by intense weather events and significant disaster response operations. With hurricane preparedness top-of-mind for many residents in Greater Houston and Southeast Texas, the report highlights not only the region’s resilience but also the urgent need for households to get ready now.

A Year of Crisis: From Floods to Hurricanes

In 2024, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated 14 times in response to a variety of threats, including severe weather events in April and May, historic flooding along the San Jacinto River, the May 16 derecho windstorm, and Hurricane Beryl. HCOHSEM also responded to the Deer Park pipeline fire and supported several major public events. Two of these incidents—the derecho and Hurricane Beryl—resulted in federal disaster declarations, unlocking more than $1.1 billion in FEMA disaster aid for over 900,000 Harris County residents.

“We had a very busy year, and each disaster helps us better prepare for the next one,” said Harris County Emergency Management Coordinator Mark Sloan. “As we continue to recover from the severe weather events of 2024 and prepare for the 2025 hurricane season, we encourage residents to take the appropriate steps to be prepared. It only takes one storm to devastate our community.”

Since the inception of FEMA in 1979, Harris County has received 50 presidential disaster declarations, reflecting the area’s vulnerability to both tropical systems and other extreme weather threats.

Mobile Sidebar Ad

Federal Collaboration and Forward-Looking Mitigation

The 2024 report also emphasizes collaboration at every level. Strong coordination with federal agencies like FEMA and regional partners enabled HCOHSEM to expedite recovery efforts and deliver vital resources to impacted communities.

“This report highlights our commitment to the residents we serve and the partners who make our success possible. We take great pride in all that we have accomplished and will continue to build upon,” added Sloan.

Efforts include the ongoing five-year update to the Harris County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, which is slated for completion in 2025. This plan identifies long-term strategies for reducing disaster risk, such as infrastructure improvements, community outreach, and investment in resilient technology.

Readiness Through Innovation and Inclusion

HCOHSEM is leaning into data-driven decision-making and community-centered engagement. The office has launched real-time GIS dashboards, multilingual alert systems, and expanded public outreach through the Disaster Readiness & Resilience Clinic. These tools aim to ensure that emergency preparedness efforts are inclusive, accessible, and tailored to the unique needs of Harris County’s diverse population.

County Judge Lina Hidalgo, who serves as the Director of HCOHSEM, has commended the community’s efforts: “Preparedness is not only about systems and protocols—it’s about people. Our residents play a crucial role in ensuring our collective safety, and this report reflects both our preparedness and their resilience.”

Mobile Sidebar Ad

Hurricane Season is Coming: How to Prepare Now

With hurricane season officially beginning June 1, now is the time for residents to finalize their emergency plans and stock up on supplies. Both FEMA and Ready.gov recommend assembling an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, flashlights, water, prescription medications, and battery-powered radios. Additionally, reviewing evacuation routes, securing important documents, and signing up for emergency alerts are essential steps for all families.

A key opportunity to prepare is the upcoming Texas Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday, running from April 26–28. During this weekend, Texans can purchase critical emergency items—such as portable generators, batteries, and first aid kits—tax-free, helping families save money while preparing for disasters. Full details on qualifying items are available in My Neighborhood News’ article on the tax-free weekend.

Why Preparedness Matters in Harris County

Harris County is one of the most disaster-prone regions in Texas, regularly impacted by hurricanes, tropical storms, floods, and industrial accidents. With a growing population and aging infrastructure, the need for proactive emergency planning has never been greater.

The 2024 HCOHSEM Annual Report is a timely reminder of the risks—and the resilience—of Harris County. Residents are encouraged to view the full report and take actionable steps now to protect their families and property before the next storm strikes.

To view the full 2024 Annual Report from the Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management, click here.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.