How should I prepare for hurricane season in Bryan-College Station?

Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 until November 30

June 1 marks the beginning of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs through November 30. While the Brazos Valley is far from the coast, we can still feel impacts from hurricanes and tropical storms that enter the gulf. Now is the time to take steps to be better prepared before tropical storms are headed our way.

 

Stock Up on Necessary Supplies

Being prepared starts with having the supplies you may need before a storm develops. Make sure you have enough water and non-perishable food to last several days, along with flashlights batteries, a first aid kit, and multiple ways to receive important updates. Taking time to gather these items now can help you avoid last-minute stress if tropical weather threatens our area. Visit ready.gov/kit for a complete emergency supply list.

Know the Terminology

It is also important to understand the terminology used during hurricane season. The National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service may issue advisories, watches, and warnings as storms develop. An advisory provides updates on current conditions and forecasts for ongoing or potential storms. A watch means tropical storm or hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours, while a warning means those conditions are expected within 36 hours. Understanding these alerts can help you better prepare and respond when tropical weather is approaching.

Graphic explaining the difference between an advisory (current conditions and forecasts), watch (conditions possible within 48 hours), and warning (conditions expected within 36 hours) in the context of tropical storms and hurricanes.

Understand the Risks

While we will not experience the same impacts as communities closer to the coast, the Brazos Valley can still feel the effects of hurricanes and tropical storms. The most common impacts include strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and even tornadoes. Staying aware of these risks and monitoring forecasts can help you make informed decisions.

 

Stay Informed

Staying informed is one of the most important parts of storm preparedness. Make sure you have multiple ways to receive forecasts and other vital information before, during, and after a storm. Local television stations, radio broadcasts, print media, weather apps, and official government sources can all provide important updates. A NOAA weather radio can also be a valuable resource, especially during power outages.

Preparing for hurricane season does not have to be complicated. Taking a few simple steps now can help you feel more confident and prepared if severe weather affects our area.

For additional hurricane preparedness resources and information, visit noaa.gov/hurricane-prep.