Response to Tropical Storm Beta

The National Weather Service has extended a Tropical Storm Warning to include inland Harris County and has issued a Storm Surge Warning for coastal Houston. A Hurricane Watch remains in effect as well.

A Tropical Storm Warning means tropical storm-force winds are expected somewhere within this area within the next 36 hours. A Storm Surge Warning means there is a danger of life-threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, somewhere within this area within the next 36 hours.

Protective Actions

• Prepare your home and review your plans before a storm impacts the area.
• 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, family members with access and functional needs, and pets.
• Decide what you and your family will do if the storm impacts your area. Most City of Houston residents are not vulnerable to storm surge and do not need to evacuate before a hurricane or tropical storm.
• Vulnerable residents who require electricity may also consider evacuation in advance of a major storm
• For a map of hurricane evacuation zones and mandatory evacuation areas. Houston residents who might need additional assistance in evacuating during a disaster can register for the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR). STEAR allows residents to provide information on their specific situation to emergency management officials who will work to help them evacuate safely or provide them with the appropriate life-sustaining help they need in a disaster.
• Call 2-1-1 for more information.

Rumors and misinformation can be common before and during major storms. It is important to seek out official information from trusted sources.