Tornado Recovery Resources Available for Greater Houston Area Residents Impacted by November 24 Storms
Following the destructive tornado and severe weather system that swept through the western half of the Greater Houston area on Monday, November 24, emergency management agencies have mobilized to provide vital resources to residents grappling with damage, debris, and displacement.
According to the Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM), neighborhoods in northwest Harris County experienced significant wind damage, downed trees, scattered power outages, and structural destruction when a fast-moving line of storms spawned at least one confirmed tornado. While no fatalities were reported as of Tuesday morning, damage was concentrated in parts of Cypress, Jersey Village, and the Katy area, where the National Weather Service confirmed wind gusts topping 100 miles per hour in some areas.
In response, local and state authorities are coordinating recovery efforts, with a focus on immediate relief and long-term recovery planning. Below is a roundup of essential resources currently available for residents in affected areas:
Damage Reporting: iSTAT Survey
Residents impacted by the tornado and storms are encouraged to complete the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s (TDEM) iSTAT survey, a critical tool used by emergency officials to assess the scope of damage. The data collected helps determine the level of state and federal aid needed.
Survey Link: bit.ly/tornadoistat
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Completing the iSTAT is not a request for individual assistance but plays a key role in shaping the disaster response and potential relief funding for the community.
Debris Pickup and Cleanup Assistance
For help with storm debris removal, residents can call 3-1-1 to request assistance or report large-scale storm-related waste. The county is coordinating with contractors and public works teams to prioritize cleanup in neighborhoods with the highest levels of damage.
Post-Storm Support Services
Residents in need of shelter, food, utility assistance, or housing support due to storm-related displacement can dial 2-1-1 to be connected to available aid programs. Services are available in English and Spanish, and 2-1-1 is open 24/7.
American Red Cross Disaster Relief
The American Red Cross is on the ground and offering direct assistance to families who have been displaced or are facing urgent needs after the storms.
For immediate help, call: 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
Volunteers are also staffing shelters and distribution centers with essentials like blankets, hygiene kits, and food.
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While the Greater Houston area is no stranger to severe weather, the impact of Monday’s storm serves as a reminder of how quickly conditions can change and how crucial community support systems are in the aftermath. As clean-up continues, community partners and local officials stress the importance of checking on neighbors, especially elderly residents and those with limited mobility, to ensure everyone is safe and accounted for.
For residents of Cypress, Jersey Village, Katy, and other parts of northwest Harris County, support is here — and neighbors and agencies alike are stepping up to ensure no one navigates this recovery alone.
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.
