Harris County addresses five new risks in expanded hazard mitigation plan

HOUSTON – Harris County is strengthening its hurricane preparedness strategy as the 2025 season approaches, with emergency management officials wrapping up an expanded hazard mitigation plan that addresses five newly identified risks.

The Office of Emergency Management has developed comprehensive safety protocols during National Hurricane Preparedness Week, sharing vital information across multiple platforms to help residents prepare for the upcoming season beginning June 1.

“We’re taking a look at what risks and threats that we face. And there are a lot of them in Harris County,” said Brian Murray, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator.

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Drawing lessons from last year’s weather events, like Hurricane Beryl and the Derecho, new strategies are being put in place for this year. The 2024 Annual Report identified five new hazards of concern: extreme heat, extreme cold, public health emergencies, utility failures, and technology disruptions.

“Last year we saw utilities was a big issue after the derecho and Hurricane Beryl. Large portions of the county lost power for a while,” said Murray.

Building Community Resilience

The Office of Emergency Management continually evaluates past disasters to enhance the county’s resilience. These assessments have led to several ongoing projects, including:

• Flood control improvements 
• Waterway widening initiatives 
• Enhanced sewage treatment systems 
• Updated emergency response protocols 

“The goal is to take a look at those risks and hazards and figure out what projects might be able to take a little bit of the edge off of them,” said Murray.

Resources and Public Access

While the comprehensive plan is being finalized, the county is making emergency preparedness resources available online. These materials will help residents protect themselves during severe weather events.

“We offer our residents the opportunity to learn how to make them safer, to make them feel more secure, and to be ready for the things that can affect them at any time,” Murray emphasized.

Taking Action

Harris County officials recommend the following steps for hurricane preparedness:

1. Preparing Your Home: Strengthen your home against severe weather by securing loose outdoor objects and weatherproofing the exterior. 
2. Buying Flood Insurance: Homeowners, renters, and business owners should purchase flood insurance through their agents and verify their policy status. Note that National Flood Insurance Program policies have a 30-day waiting period and are not available during active tropical cyclones in the Gulf. More information is available at www.FloodSmart.gov. 
3. Understanding Weather Terms: Learn the differences between weather warnings, watches, advisories, and outlooks to take appropriate actions. 
4. Knowing Your Evacuation Zone: Residents in evacuation zones should familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and follow local authority instructions. Check the Zip Zone Evacuation Map to see if your home is in an evacuation zone. 
5. Keeping Your Gas Tank Half Full: Ensure your gas tank is at least half full, as gas stations may close during evacuations. 
6. Signing Up for STEAR: Register with the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) online or by calling 2-1-1 if you have access and functional needs or require transportation assistance. 

Residents requiring additional assistance during emergencies are encouraged to register with the State’s Emergency Assistance Registry program.

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The county’s proactive approach to emergency management reflects its commitment to protecting residents while adapting to evolving environmental challenges. As hurricane season approaches, officials continue to emphasize the importance of early preparation and community involvement in disaster readiness.