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How to prepare for a storm

Written By: Simone Sonnier, UT Physicians | Updated: August 22, 2020
tropical disturbance

Monitoring tropical weather in the Gulf of Mexico.

Texans are familiar with Gulf storms and the cone of uncertainty all too well. As we keep a watchful eye on two tropical storms, being proactive is a necessity.

What to gather

Food and medicine

  • Prescription medicines (You should have at least a two week supply on-hand.) Please call us ahead of time, or utilize the MyUTP Patient Portal, to request refills.
  • Clean containers for water
  • At least five gallons of water per person (which should be enough to last three to five days)
  • A three to five day supply of food that doesn’t go bad (like canned food)
  • Baby food or formula

Safety items

  • First aid kit and instructions
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Battery-powered radio
  • Flashlights
  • Extra batteries
  • Sleeping bags or extra blankets
  • Supplies to make drinking water safe (like iodine tablets or chlorine bleach)

Personal care products

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet cleaning cloths (like baby wipes) in case you don’t have clean water
  • Soap
  • Toothpaste
  • Feminine products
  • Deodorant
  • Diapers

What to remember

  • The UT Physicians nurse triage line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Registered nurses on the line are prepared to answer questions regarding medical problems, medications, and treatments for you and your family. Should you have a medical question during a storm event, give them a call at 713.486.UTRN (8876).
  • Keep your important paperwork (including any medical documents you may have) in watertight bags or containers.
  • Should a storm target Texas, be sure to monitor our social media channels and website for updates if you have scheduled appointments.
As the clinical practice of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, UT Physicians has locations across the Greater Houston area to serve the community. To schedule an appointment, call 888-4UT-DOCS.