Houston Hurricanes: Dodgeball Champions or Sitting Ducks?
Ah, Houston. The city that's practically synonymous with good ol' Texas hospitality, delicious barbecue, and... hurricanes? Hold on there, partner, before you start picturing us all clinging to roof tops with a ten-gallon hat full of rainwater. Let's dive into the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth (well, maybe with a sprinkle of Texan flair).
So, How Many Hurricanes Are We Talking Here?
Now, this is where things get a little, well, unpredictable. Unlike clockwork taxes or your neighbor's questionable taste in lawn ornaments, hurricanes don't exactly follow a strict schedule. The good news? Houston itself doesn't get a direct hit every year. We're more like the scrappy dodgeball team that somehow avoids getting pegged most of the game.
But here's the thing, sometimes Mother Nature throws a curveball (pun totally intended). We've had our fair share of close calls, like that time Hurricane Harvey decided to park itself over us and dump a whole lotta rain, causing some epic flooding (let's just say the bayous got a little too enthusiastic).
Hurricane Season: When to Batten Down the Hatches (Metaphorically)
Now, if you're planning a trip to Houston, fear not! Hurricane season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th, but the peak times are typically mid-August to late October. So, if you're here during those months, it's a good idea to be hurricane aware. Here's what you can do:
- Befriend a local: We Houstonians are a resourceful bunch. Ask around for tips and tricks, and maybe even borrow an inflatable pool float (just in case).
- Stock up on essentials: Bottled water, snacks (gotta stay fueled for all that dodging!), and maybe a good book to keep you entertained if the power goes out.
- Download a hurricane tracking app: Knowledge is power, y'all! There are plenty of apps that will keep you updated on any storm systems brewing in the Gulf.
Most importantly, don't panic! We've got a pretty good handle on hurricane preparedness here in Houston. Just follow the advice of local authorities, and you'll be good as gold.
So, to answer your question definitively: the number of hurricanes hitting Houston directly each year is a bit of a guessing game. But hey, that's just part of the charm of living in a city with a little extra excitement thrown in!