June 1 Marks Start of Hurricane Season: Fort Bend County Calls for Residents to Prepare
As June 1 approaches, marking the beginning of hurricane season which extends through November 30, Fort Bend County's Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HSEM) are urging all residents to prepare for the potentiality of high hurricane activity.
NOAA Forecasts Above-Normal Atlantic Hurricane Activity
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, there is an 85% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season this year. The forecast predicts 17 to 25 total named storms, with 8 to 13 potentially escalating into hurricanes, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes. These predictions factor in the development of La Niña conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds, and near-record warm ocean temperatures.
Fort Bend County's vulnerability due to its location on the Gulf Coast makes these predictions particularly relevant for its residents.
Steps to Prepare for Hurricane Season
Fort Bend County HSEM believes that preparedness is crucial in mitigating the impact of potential disasters. They suggest a four-step preparedness process for residents, which includes:
1. Making a Plan
Each household should have an emergency response plan. This includes knowing local evacuation routes, safe locations, and communication protocols during emergencies. To view an interactive map showing evacuation routes and population densities for Fort Bend County, click here.
2. Assembling an Emergency Kit
An essential part of preparedness is having an emergency kit ready. This should include non-perishable food, water, medicines, copies of crucial documents, clothing, and hygiene items that can sustain each individual for at least three days.
3. Staying Informed
Knowledge is power. Stay updated about disaster risks in your area and current weather forecasts. Understand the difference between a Hurricane Watch (hurricane conditions are possible in your area within 48 hours) or Hurricane Warning (hurricane conditions are likely within your area within 36 hours) and how to respond.
4. Additional Measures
Other recommended initiatives include protecting personal documents, purchasing flood insurance, and flood-proofing homes where possible.
Fort Bend County HSEM and NOAA advise residents to take the upcoming hurricane forecasts seriously. By staying informed and preparing in advance, residents can help protect their communities and ensure a quicker recovery if disaster strikes. For more details about hurricane preparedness and severe weather guides, residents can check out the resources provided by the official Southeast TX Hurricane & Severe Weather Guide published by the National Weather Service here.
With hurricane season looming, serious commitment to preparation can make all the difference. As June 1 marks the official start of hurricane season, the call to action is now – be prepared.
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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.
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