Important Information Regarding Hurricane Laura

As you may know, Hurricane Laura is expected to make landfall late this evening or early tomorrow as a Category 4 Hurricane. While the path of the storm is difficult to predict, the National Weather Service is warning that strong winds, rain, and storm surges can still affect those not directly in the path of this hurricane.

Texas has declared a State of Emergency, extending to Grimes, Houston, Leon, Madison, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Trinity, and Walker counties. No counties in the Eighth Congressional District are currently being asked to evacuate. If at any point you are told to evacuate, leave immediately. 

How to prepare:

Understand that your planning may be different this year because of the need to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

• Put together an emergency supply kit. Watch a video on how to build a Go-Kit.
• Create a communication plan with your family.
• Sign up for your community or county warning system. 
• Know flood risks in your area.
• Know your evacuation routes. 
• Register for STEAR if you or anyone you know will need some assistance in an emergency event.
• Keep important documents in a waterproof container; create password-protected digital copies.
• Follow weather alerts. 

If you need to evacuate:

Due to the COVID-19 environment, Texas is utilizing non-congregate sheltering (hotels) as a first resort. The reception shelters for evacuations are located in San Antonio, Austin, DFW, and Ellis County. More information, and addresses for those shelters can be found here. 

The American Red Cross is also prepared to shelter and support families from Louisiana and Texas. For assistance, call 3-1-1. More information Red Cross shelters in Texas and locations can be found here.

Resources:

If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact your local emergency management branch, or visit Texas Division of Emergency Management. Please see below for additional resources and helpful links.  

• TexasReady.gov - disaster preparedness, information and resources.
• Flood Safety - before, during and after.
• Hurricane Safety - before, during and after.
• Ready.gov - plan ahead for disasters.
• National Flood Insurance - homeowners and renters insurance does not typically cover flood damage.
• TCEQ - information for public water systems, household debris management, safe drinking water.