While hurricanes tend to dominate the headlines, tornadoes sometimes pose a serious threat in Southeast Texas, including in the Katy area. As spring and summer bring more frequent storms, alerts and warnings related to tornado activity become more common.
Understanding the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning, and knowing how to respond to each, can help keep your family safe when weather conditions escalate.
In any severe weather situation, it’s critical to have multiple ways to receive alerts. HCMUD 71 encourages residents to:
- Sign up for HCMUD 71 notifications at: https://hcmud71.com/sign-up-for-email-or-text-message-alerts/#alerts;
- Sign up for emergency notifications through ReadyHarris at www.readyharris.org to get real-time updates specific to your location; and
- Monitor Local TV and radio stations, weather radios, and smartphone alert systems.
Tornadoes in the Katy area can form quickly, often with little notice, and may occur as part of a larger weather system or as a spin-off from tropical storms or hurricanes. Tornado activity peaks from April to June, but can occur at any time.
A key to staying safe is knowing how to understand the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning.
A Tornado Watch means that a tornado may form due to weather conditions favorable for tornado development. This is the time to stay weather-aware, check your emergency kit, and ensure you’re ready to take shelter quickly if needed. You do not need to seek immediate shelter during a Tornado Watch, but you should be prepared to act quickly if the alert escalates.
A Tornado Warning, on the other hand, means a tornado has been spotted or detected by radar in your area. When a Tornado Warning is issued, take shelter immediately. Do not wait to see the tornado or confirm the danger yourself.
Seek cover in the lowest, most interior room of your home, preferably away from windows. A hallway, bathroom, or closet on the first floor is often the safest option. If you live in a multi-story home, move to the ground level. Mobile homes and vehicles may be unsafe; if you’re in one, relocate to a sturdy building or designated storm shelter if time allows and it is safe to do so.
HCMUD 71 recommends that residents take time to review and update their family’s emergency plan before the next storm hits. Residents should:
- Know where to shelter;
- Have flashlights and backup batteries available;
- Maintain emergency food, medicine, and water supplies;
- Keep important documents in a safe, accessible place; and
- Secure outdoor items, such as furniture and trash bins.
Tornadoes are unpredictable, but being informed and prepared can make all the difference. HCMUD 71 encourages all residents to stay alert during severe weather events and to act quickly when tornado warnings are issued. As always, in the event of an emergency, call 911.
Sign Up for HCMUD 71 Email and Text Alerts
To Sign Up for Email Alerts:
- Visit https://hcmud71.com/sign-up-for-email-or-text-message-alerts/#alerts
- Scroll to the Email Alerts section.
- Enter your email address and name.
- Select your preference:
- Emergency Notifications Only
- Emergency and Non-Emergency Notifications
- Click Subscribe.
To Sign Up for Text Alerts:
- Open a text message on your mobile phone.
- Text MUD71 to (832) 344-3195.
- Follow the instructions in the reply message to complete your sign-up.
Text alerts include emergency notices and important service updates. Standard messaging rates may apply depending on your carrier.
Register with ReadyHarris for Regional Alerts
To Register for ReadyHarris Regional Alerts:
- Go to www.readyharris.org
- Click “Sign Up for Alerts”
- Choose your language preference and fill out the form to create a new account, including providing your name, username and password, location information, and contact preferences.
- Accept the Terms of Use and click Create Account.
- Confirm your profile and location details and add any additional contact information if needed.
- Finish registration.