Galveston: The Windy City (Not in a Good Way)
Galveston, Texas: Where the sun shines, the beaches are dreamy, and the hurricanes... well, they're a whole different story. You might think it's a tropical paradise, but let's be real, it's more like a rollercoaster with a salty twist.
How Often Does This Windy Beast Visit?
So, you're wondering how often Galveston gets slapped with a hurricane, huh? Let's break it down. On average, a hurricane makes landfall on the Texas coast about once every six years. But remember, this is just an average. It's like saying the average human has 4 limbs, but some people have more, and some have less (or none if you're a particularly unfortunate starfish).
Galveston, being the drama queen of the Texas coast, tends to get a front-row seat to these oceanic temper tantrums more often than its neighbors. It's like that one friend who always seems to be in the middle of the action.
The Great Galveston Hurricane of 1900: A Tale of Woe
Now, let's talk about the granddaddy of them all: the Great Galveston Hurricane of 1900. This wasn't just a hurricane; it was a full-on oceanic rage quit. It's estimated that over 8,000 people lost their lives. That's more people than live in my hometown! Can you imagine the chaos? It's like a scene from a disaster movie, but without the cool special effects.
Hurricane Season: The Annual Waiting Game
Hurricane season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th. So, for six months of the year, Galveston residents are basically living on borrowed time. It's like a constant game of Russian roulette, but with wind and water instead of bullets.
Pro Tip: If you're planning a beach vacation to Galveston, avoid the months with an "r" in them. Just kidding (kind of).
How to Prepare for a Hurricane
Now that you're officially terrified of hurricanes, let's talk about how to survive one.
- How to stock up for a hurricane: Gather supplies like water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, and a first aid kit. Oh, and don't forget your favorite board games. You'll need something to do when the power goes out.
- How to create a hurricane evacuation plan: Determine your evacuation route, designate a meeting place for your family, and pack a go-bag with essential items.
- How to protect your home from hurricane damage: Invest in hurricane shutters, trim trees near your house, and secure loose outdoor objects.
- How to stay informed during a hurricane: Listen to weather updates, follow official advisories, and have multiple ways to receive information.
- How to cope with hurricane anxiety: Practice relaxation techniques, talk to friends and family, and seek professional help if needed.
Remember, knowledge is power. So, arm yourself with information, stay calm, and be prepared. And if you ever find yourself in the path of a hurricane, just remember: you're tougher than any storm.