The Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and will end November 30. While being prepared before the season starts is best, now is the time to make a plan if you haven’t done so already.
Hurricane Preparedness
Your Emergency Plan
FEMA offers Hurricane Preparedness resources to help plan for your home and business at Ready.gov.
Wharton County Electric Cooperative’s website also has local resources, tips to prepare for extended power outages, and a link to FEMA’s Hurricane Prep Kit at our Outage Center.
Prepare for Evacuation
You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay. If authorities advise or order you to evacuate, leave immediately.
If you are not in a mandatory evacuation zone, you may still decide to leave the area or you may need to move to higher ground. If you decide to stay home, remember that even if the high winds and floodwaters do not reach your home, you may lose power and water, and you may not be able to leave your home for several days if the roads are impassable.
Stay Informed
Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for local alert systems covering the WCEC service territory at our Outage Center.
Be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign-up.
Those with Disabilities
Identify if you may need additional help during an emergency if you or anyone else in your household is an individual with a disability.
Review Documents
Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, such as ID, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure
password-protected digital space.
Strengthen your Home
De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, and consider hurricane shutters.
Get Tech Ready
Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices.
Help your Neighbors
Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others.
Gather Supplies
Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies, and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.
See more hurricane preparedness guidelines from the Texas Division of Emergency Management below.