Resources for Hurricane Beryl

Update 7/10/24

Please visit https://www.houstonoem.org/pages/recover to learn more about what to do during the recovery process.

Remember to take pictures of your storm damage. The damage assessment process is critical to being eligible for Independent Assistance from FEMA. Report all damage to your property to the State of Texas using the iSTAT tool- https://damage.tdem.texas.gov

Those with insurance should contact their insurance companies before applying for FEMA assistance. FEMA will only cover damages beyond the scope of the property owner's insurance plan.

If you cannot remove debris and "muck & gut" your property yourself, help is available. Contact the Crisis Cleanup hotline at 832-509-2977. Be mindful of scammers who will take advantage of the situation. Report all scams and fraud to the Texas Attorney General.

Original Post (7/7/2024)

The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) continues monitoring Beryl. The National Hurricane Center anticipates Beryl will make landfall as a hurricane near Matagorda Bay early Monday morning. It is recommended that residents stay home and off roads beginning this evening (Sunday, 7/7) through the day tomorrow, (Monday 7/8).

The National Weather Service currently has Harris County under a Tropical Storm Warning which would bring sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph in the next 36 hours. There is also a Flood Watch in effect for Harris County through Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service forecast rainfall amounts of 5 to 10 inches with localized higher amounts expected beginning late today. Coastal residents should expect higher tides and be prepared for possible street flooding.

BE WEATHER AWARE! In addition to potential wind damage, residents should also anticipate severe rain and the potential for flash flooding in the region.

• Residents need to finish making storm preparations for their families and homes by this evening. This includes:
• Ensure your family has 5-7 days of food, water, and necessary supplies. This includes enough prescription medication for at least this duration, in case pharmacies and doctor's offices are closed.
• Consider the unique needs of small children, seniors, special needs family members, and pets.
• Remove trash, debris, and leaves from storm drains and ditches in your neighborhood. Secure loose items such as furniture and trash bins. Bring in smaller items such as plants.
• Know how to turn off your utilities. This includes electricity, water, and gas. Only turn off gas if instructed by local officials or by CenterPoint Energy.

• If a Tornado Warning is issued, go into an interior room on the lowest floor of the building you are in and stay away from windows. Remain there until the danger has passed. For more information on tornado safety, visit www.ready.gov/tornadoes.

• Avoid traveling during severe weather. Rain can reduce visibility. If you go out, use caution, turn on headlights, and reduce your speed to avoid hydroplaning. Do not drive through flooded areas. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. If you see water covering the road, do not attempt to cross it. Only a few inches of water can float a vehicle. Some roads may be impassible due to debris. Do not drive around barricades. Find information about road conditions at Houston TranStar.

• For a map of hurricane evacuation zones and mandatory evacuation areas, visit: houstonoem.org/pages/hurricane

Monitor media sources for severe weather information. Follow weather safety advice from local officials. Recommended sources of information:

• AlertHouston
• https://www.facebook.com/AlertHouston/
• https://x.com/alerthouston

• Houston Office Emergency Management
• https://www.facebook.com/HoustonOEM/
• https://x.com/HoustonOEM

• National Weather Service Houston
• https://www.facebook.com/NWSHouston
• https://x.com/NWSHouston

• Space City Weather
• https://www.facebook.com/spacecityweather/
• https://x.com/SpaceCityWX

• Houston TranStar
• https://www.facebook.com/HoustonTranStar/
• https://x.com/HoustonTranStar

• Get WEA messages on your device: Apple | Android

• HCOHSEM ReadyHarris Alerts and ReadyHarris Accessible Alerts

Other Resources:

• HCOHSEM Hurricane Preparedness and Evacuation Guide
• Ready.gov Hurricane Toolkit for Businesses
• National Hurricane Center Website
• FEMA: National Incident Management System (NIMS)
• Red Cross Hurricane Safety Information
• If you are looking for a trusted partner to help at your property, please utilize our service provider directory at houstonboma.org.

Houston BOMA is here for you as you weather the storm. We will continue to distribute more information and resources as they are available.