Current Watches/Warnings for Houston
- Tropical Storm Warning until further notice
- Storm Surge Watch until further notice
- Flash Flood Watch from 4am Friday to 7pm on Tuesday
- Tornado Watch until 2.00am Saturday
Make Preparations Now
This includes:
- Clean and fill bathtub with water; use (tips on disinfecting water can be found at www.cdc.gov)
- Charge electronic devices; consider limiting the use of phones during and after the storm to free lines for emergency communication and to prolong battery life
- Inventory property, take pictures if possible and review insurance coverage
- Prepare for power failure; turn refrigerators to maximum cold and open only when necessary. Unplug small appliances.
- Make ice (plastic storage bags and bowls with lids may be used)
- Elevate important items (i.e., food, important papers, medicine)
- Secure all outdoor items
- Keep your blinds and/or drapes closed to reduce hazards from flying glass
- Move vehicles to higher ground
- Secure pets (fences may become compromised)
- Check on neighbors, especially the elderly
- Contact family, review rescue plans; keep emergency contact information on your person, wallet, purse, etc.
- Ensure gutters and storm drains are clear
- Do not drive your vehicle through high water
- Watch for falling limbs, wires and broken glass
- To avoid fire hazards, don’t use kerosene lamps or flammable materials unless you are in the same room with them
- Monitor official news sources (i.e., www.houstonemergency.org, www.hurricanes.gov, www.harriscountyfws.org, www.weather.gov/Houston, local and national network television stations, or radio stations: 740AM and 88.7FM)
Steer Clear of Flood Prone Roadways
The City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents and visitors to avoid Houston roadways as Hurricane Harvey impacts the area over the next several days. The Department of Public Works & Engineering and OEM have produced a map of roadway segments and underpasses that are especially prone to flooding. If residents are unable to suspend all travel during the duration of this storm, they should heed special caution around these locations.
Flood Prone Locations Map
All intersections and underpasses have the potential to be dangerous during periods of heavy and/or prolonged rainfall. If you see a barricade in your path, DO NOT drive around it or move it. Barricades are put in place explicitly to protect lives.
Shelters
At this time, the American Red Cross has not opened any emergency shelters in the City of Houston. If and when they become necessary, they will be posted to redcross.org. Additionally, residents who may need Red Cross Assistance can call 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED-CROSS).
Health Tips After Exposure to Floodwater
The Houston Health Department reminds residents to:
- Practice good hygiene, such as hand washing after any contact with floodwaters. Wash children’s hands frequently, especially before meals.
- Do not allow children to play in floodwater areas.
- Do not eat any food that was in contact with floodwater.
The City of Houston will continue to provide updates on Hurricane Harvey as they become available through AlertHouston. |
