The ongoing La Niña is likely to last throughout the hurricane season, contributing to what would be the seventh consecutive above-average hurricane season. The NOAA forecasts up to 21 named storms and three to six major hurricanes.
The Harris County Flood Control District urged Harris County residents in a May 31 news release to prepare their homes and families for the season before the first storm hits. Precautionary measures, including purchasing flood insurance, signing up for Flood Warning System alerts and viewing a flood plain map to understand a resident’s risk of flooding, can all help minimize damage, according to the district.
“Residents need to be prepared by creating a hurricane kit and stocking with supplies, having a plan of what you and your family will do if a storm threatens, and frequently monitoring trusted weather sources throughout hurricane season,” HCFCD Meteorologist Jeff Lindner said in the release.
Although the district said it can never fully prevent flooding, its website offers interactive tools with information about the area’s bayous and streams.
“Knowing what tools are available to you before a disaster will enable you and your family to make the best choices during a hurricane,” HCFCD Executive Director Tina Petersen said in the release.
