Houston: The Hurricane Haven or Haven't?
Houston, Texas – a city synonymous with BBQ, space exploration, and, unfortunately, hurricanes. So, you're wondering when this windy menace last decided to pay the Bayou City a visit? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the thrilling world of hurricane history (or lack thereof, depending on how you look at it).
Hurricane Harvey: The Big One
Let's start with the obvious: Hurricane Harvey. This wasn't just a hurricane; it was a monsoon wearing storm boots. In 2017, Harvey decided to park itself over Houston, and proceeded to drop an absolutely ridiculous amount of rain. It was like someone turned on a cosmic sprinkler and forgot to turn it off. The result? Massive flooding, widespread devastation, and a whole lot of soggy Texans.
But wait, there's more!
You might think, "Okay, Harvey was bad, but surely that was a one-time thing, right?" Wrong! Houston has a storied history with hurricanes. There was Ike in 2008, who brought the city to its knees with a powerful punch. And let's not forget Rita in 2005, who was all like, "Hold my beer, Katrina."
Houston: Hurricane Magnet or Just Unlucky?
So, is Houston a hurricane magnet? Well, it's certainly had its fair share of close calls and direct hits. But is it more prone to hurricanes than other coastal cities? That's a question for the meteorologists to debate over endless cups of coffee.
One thing's for sure: Houstonians are a resilient bunch. They've faced down hurricanes, floods, and even a global pandemic with a "come and get me" attitude. So, while the threat of hurricanes is always looming, the city and its people have shown time and again that they can weather any storm.
How to Prepare for Hurricane Season
Now that you know a little bit about Houston's hurricane history, let's talk about how to prepare for the next big one.
- How to create a hurricane emergency kit: Stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies.
- How to develop a communication plan: Decide how you'll stay in touch with family and friends during a storm.
- How to protect your home: Secure outdoor objects, trim trees, and consider investing in hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows.
- How to evacuate safely: Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place for where you'll go if you need to evacuate.
- How to stay informed: Stay up-to-date on weather forecasts and follow the advice of local officials.
Remember, preparation is key when it comes to hurricanes. By taking the necessary steps, you can help protect yourself and your family.