Katherine Maher

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How Montgomery County, TX Residents can Prepare for Hurricane Season

Hurricane warning road sign

Though Montgomery County residents are still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, which pummeled the area in August 2017, the Atlantic hurricane season has already started.

In April, Colorado State University issued its annual forecast, stating that there will be “slightly above-average activity” this year. The forecast predicts the arrival of 3 major hurricanes, 7 hurricanes, and 14 named storms.

Residents and officials are gearing up for anticipated flooding, raising awareness, and advocating for better preparedness.

Here are steps residents can take in order to be prepared for hurricane season:

  1. Have an emergency supply kit

    Put together an emergency bag containing a first aid kit, food, water, and baby and pet needs like baby formula, diapers, pet food, and so on. This bag will come in handy should you lose access to food and water supply during a hurricane. The bag should contain at least seven days’ worth of food and water. It should also contain any maintenance medication that you’re presently taking.

    Click here for the full list of items to include in your emergency supply kit.

  2. Stay connected

    Residents can monitor the Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (MCOEM) website for emergency updates in the event of a natural disaster. The website contains alerts and advisories, as well as preparedness information. You can also call them at 936-523-3900.

    Downloading the Ready MCTX mobile app through the Google Play and Apple Store is another option. The app is free and is an excellent source for emergency updates in the area.

    Lastly, residents can >create a SMART 911 profile in order to receive weather notifications from MCOEM in the event of a storm or a hurricane.

  3. Complete a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) course

    MCOEM also offers CERT courses —learn about fire safety, search and rescue protocol, and first aid and triage. CERT courses will equip you with the information and skills you need to survive a disaster. Click here for the schedule of classes.

  4. Do evacuation planning

    Find out if you live in an evacuation area, or an area where people must leave their homes in the event of a hurricane. The local government provides public information on evacuation areas, as well as evacuation routes that you can test in good weather. However, people who live outside of evacuation zones should still look into emergency preparedness and keep themselves informed of the weather.

  5. Check your insurance coverage

    If you live in a disaster prone area, you would do well to check your insurance coverage before disaster strikes. Property owners must insure their homes against heavy flooding – something that a lot of homeowners don’t realize is not part of standard home insurance.

    Property owners can contact their home insurance provider in order to buy flood insurance. It is generally advisable to do so, even if the home is not situated along the coastline or in a flood plain.

Looking for a home in Montgomery County? Let the “Lady of the Lake” Team assist you. Call us at 936-582-5429 or send an email to Katherine(at)lakeconroe(dotted)com to get started.