Hurricane & Flood Season Readiness
Living in the Houston region means staying prepared for hurricanes, flooding, and severe weather events. This guide brings together trusted resources and practical steps to help residents of Ricewood MUD plan ahead, stay safe during storms, and recover more quickly afterward.
Flooding and severe weather can develop quickly across Harris County, where thousands of miles of roads and hundreds of bridges support daily travel and emergency response. When heavy rain or storm surge occurs, conditions can change rapidly—especially in low-lying areas.
To stay ahead of flooding conditions, residents are encouraged to monitor local alerts:
This system provides real-time rainfall data, bayou levels, and flood warnings across the region.
You can also sign up for emergency alerts through:
STEAR (State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry) for residents needing extra assistance during disasters
Every household should have a “go kit” ready before a storm is announced. Supplies should last at least 3–7 days.
Essential items:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights + extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Portable phone charger / power bank
- Medications (clearly labeled)
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag
Special reminder:
Each person in the household should have their own smaller “to-go kit,” especially children. Let children help choose items so they understand their own emergency supplies.
Pets are part of the family—and they need their own emergency plan too.
Key guidance from the American Red Cross and CDC:
- Keep a pet go-kit with:
- Food and water (3–7 days)
- Leash, harness, or carrier
- Vaccination and medical records
- Medications
- Comfort items (blanket or toy)
- Make sure pets have ID tags and/or microchips
- Have a plan for evacuation that includes pet-friendly shelters or boarding options
Helpful resources:
Disasters require extra preparation for residents with health conditions or specific care needs.
Be sure to plan for:
- Chronic medical conditions (diabetes, heart conditions, respiratory issues)
- Pregnancy or infant care needs
- Mobility or accessibility needs
- Backup power for medical devices
Recommendations:
- Keep medications clearly labeled and stored in waterproof containers
- Maintain a printed list of prescriptions and dosages
- Prepare backup care plans in case regular medical facilities are unavailable
When severe weather arrives, conditions can deteriorate quickly.
Key safety rules:
- Turn Around, Don ’t Drown – never drive through flooded roads
- Avoid bridges and low water crossings during heavy rain
- Stay off roads unless evacuation is ordered
- Move to higher ground or designated emergency centers if flooding occurs
Emergency response teams may deploy rescue and transport operations when conditions become life-threatening.
Flooding is one of the most common hazards in our region. Even shallow water can be dangerous.
Follow guidance from the American Red Cross:
- Move to higher ground immediately if flooding begins
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwater
- Stay tuned to weather alerts and local updates
Flood safety resource:
Hurricanes can bring wind damage, power outages, flooding, and debris hazards.
Key preparation steps:
- Secure outdoor furniture and yard items
- Trim trees and remove dead branches before storm season
- Ensure vehicles are fueled ahead of time
- Have evacuation routes planned in advance
Official hurricane preparedness guidance:
Large storm events can affect thousands of miles of roadway and hundreds of bridges across the region. Local agencies coordinate debris removal, emergency response, and infrastructure repair following major storms.
Typical response efforts may include:
- Debris removal crews clearing roads and neighborhoods
- Emergency transport to shelters or medical centers
- Coordination with regional emergency management teams
- Restoration of essential utilities and access routes
Residents are encouraged to review statewide preparedness guidance:
- Texas Department of State Health Services – TexasReady:
This resource provides disaster planning tools, family communication plans, and emergency supply checklists.
Before hurricane season begins, make sure you can answer “yes” to the following:
- Do I have a 3–7 day emergency supply kit?
- Do I have a family communication plan?
- Do pets have their own emergency supplies and ID?
- Do I know my evacuation route?
- Am I signed up for emergency alerts?
- Do I have backup plans for medical or special needs?
Preparedness is not about predicting the next storm—it’s about being ready for any of them. Taking time now to build a plan can make all the difference when severe weather arrives.