The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) and partners remain activated at Level 1-Maximum Readiness to respond to Hurricane Laura. The storm will make landfall overnight and will impact areas of Harris County with strong winds and rain.
You should complete any shelter-in-place or evacuation preparation by 8:00 p.m. this evening. Whether you shelter in your home or leave, you should be prepared to remain in a safe location for the next few days.
Avoid coastal areas for the remainder of Hurricane Laura. DO NOT go outdoors or be on roadways as the storm moves through the area. Strong winds could turn loose items into projectiles.
Voluntary evacuations of coastal Harris County communities were issued yesterday. Residents should not return to their homes until local officials have announced that it is safe to do so.
STAY SAFE THROUGH THE STORM
- Do not call 9-1-1 unless you are experiencing a true emergency.
- If necessary, take refuge in an interior hallway or smaller room with no windows, such as a closet near load-bearing walls.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and only use hand-cranked, solar-powered, or battery-operated lamps or flashlights.
- Be sure to leave a clear path to exit in case of a fire.
IF YOU LOSE POWER
- Always assume fallen power lines are energized. Stay away from the area and report any downed lines to authorities immediately.
- During power outages try to avoid using candles. Use flashlights instead.
- Turn off lights and electrical appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer. Leave one lamp on so you will know when power is restored. Wait at least 15 minutes after power is restored before turning on other appliances.
- Unplug computers and other sensitive equipment to protect them from possible surges when the power is restored.
- Use and store food carefully to prevent food-borne illness.
- Keep doors to refrigerator and freezers closed.
- If using a generator, ensure it is in a well-ventilated area and never inside the home or garage.
- To track power outages in your neighborhood, visit CenterPoint Energy.
ALWAYS STAY INFORMED
- Listen to and follow instructions from local officials.
- Check forecast regularly for updates: National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center
- Use trusted sources for the latest information, such as: National Weather Service, Harris County Flood Control District, and ReadyHarris
