Hurricane Season 2026
The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Houston and Montgomery County homeowners — here's your complete preparation guide from the local contractors who see the damage firsthand.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting an above-average 2026 Atlantic hurricane season with 17–21 named storms, 7–9 hurricanes, and 3–4 major hurricanes. For Houston and Montgomery County residents, this isn't abstract — it's personal. Hurricane Harvey (2017) dumped 60 inches of rain on parts of our area. Hurricane Ike (2008) caused $30 billion in damage. Preparing your home now isn't optional.
Key dates: Peak activity in the Houston area is mid-August through mid-October. Have all preparations complete by July 1.
Your roof takes the brunt of hurricane-force winds. A single compromised shingle can lead to catastrophic water damage during a storm. Here's what to do right now:
Once wind penetrates your home through a broken window or failed door, internal pressure can literally lift the roof off. Window and door protection is critical.
Permanently installed laminated glass windows that withstand a 2x4 traveling at 34 mph. No shutters needed. Cost: $500–$1,200 per window. Ideal if you're already planning a window replacement.
Roll-down, accordion, Bahama, or panel shutters. More affordable upfront ($7–$30/sq ft), but require deployment before each storm. Permanent shutters can reduce insurance premiums 10–30%.
Your garage door is the largest opening in your home. A standard double-wide garage door that fails under wind pressure can cause catastrophic structural failure. Install a vertical bracing system ($150–$500) that reinforces the door against wind loads. If your garage door is older than 15 years, consider a wind-rated replacement (look for a design pressure rating of at least +45/-51 PSF).
Pro tip: Many Montgomery County homes built before 2008 have un-reinforced garage doors. This is the #1 entry point for storm damage we see.
Quick Budget Fix
Can't afford impact windows or shutters right now? Install 3/4-inch plywood panels cut to fit each window, pre-drilled, labeled, and stored in your garage. When a storm warning hits, you can cover all windows in under 30 minutes for under $200 in materials.
This is the most overlooked category — and the one that causes the most neighbor disputes after a storm. A loose fence panel becomes a dangerous projectile in 74+ mph winds.
Flooding, not wind, causes the most damage in Houston. Our flat topography and clay-heavy soil make us uniquely vulnerable. Here's your flood defense plan:
Check FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) for your address. Zone AE/A = high risk, Zone X = moderate/low risk. Montgomery County has extensive flood-prone areas. Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage — you need a separate flood policy through NFIP or a private insurer.
Your yard should slope away from the foundation at a minimum of 6 inches over the first 10 feet. French drains, swales, and dry creek beds divert water around your home. Houston's clay soil expands when wet and can create new drainage problems — inspect yearly.
Backflow valve on sewer line: During flooding, municipal sewer systems can back up into your home through toilets and drains. A backflow prevention valve ($500–$1,200 installed) stops this.
Sump pump with battery backup: If you have a basement or crawlspace, ensure your sump pump works and has a battery backup. Test it monthly during hurricane season. A water-powered backup sump pump is ideal as it works even during extended power outages.
Critical: Flood Insurance Takes 30 Days to Activate
NFIP flood policies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. If you wait until a storm is in the Gulf, you're too late. Get flood insurance today.
Power outages during and after hurricanes in the Houston area can last hours, days, or even weeks. A reliable backup power source keeps your sump pump, refrigerator, and HVAC running.
Portable Generator
$500–$2,000 | Powers essentials
Whole-Home Standby Generator
$8,000–$15,000 installed | Full power
Pro tip: Never run a generator inside your home or garage. Carbon monoxide kills more people after hurricanes than the storms themselves.
7 Days Out — Storm in the Gulf
Review your insurance policies. Photograph/video every room for documentation. Test generators. Fill prescriptions. Begin securing loose outdoor items.
5 Days Out — Hurricane Watch Likely
Fill vehicles with gas. Withdraw cash (ATMs go down). Stock 3+ gallons of water per person. Check all window/door seals. Clear gutters and downspouts one more time.
3 Days Out — Hurricane Warning Issued
Deploy shutters or plywood. Move all outdoor furniture inside. Charge all devices and backup batteries. Fill bathtubs with water for flushing toilets. Park vehicles in garage or away from trees.
1 Day Out — Storm Imminent
Set refrigerator/freezer to coldest setting. Turn off propane tanks. Close interior doors (reduces pressure). Shelter in an interior room with no windows. Keep phones charged and on Do Not Disturb.
We'll inspect your roof, windows, doors, fence, and drainage — and give you a prioritized checklist of what to fix before hurricane season peaks. No obligation, no pressure. Just honest advice from your local contractor.
Serving Montgomery, Magnolia, The Woodlands, Conroe, Tomball & all of Greater North Houston