As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, Harris County officials are expressing serious concern over funding cuts to federal emergency management resources, particularly affecting FEMA and NOAA.
Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones highlighted the challenges that local leaders may face as they prepare to support the community in the event of a hurricane, noting that federal cuts could hinder essential operations.
Speaking at a press conference, Briones emphasized the importance of individual readiness and community cooperation to mitigate the impacts of potential storms.
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher also addressed the issue, warning that reductions in funding and staffing at NOAA—responsible for the National Weather Service—could delay critical storm information for the public.
Fletcher described the effects of these cuts as not just a shortsighted decision but as a reckless move that could jeopardize the safety of residents during hurricane events.
Highlighting the need for timely warnings and efficient coordination among various levels of government, Fletcher stated, “These aren’t luxuries; they are lifelines for people in need.”
Recently, Fletcher was part of a group of 38 congressional members who advocated for renewed appropriations for NOAA’s research divisions that have been negatively impacted.
Acknowledging these pressing issues, Briones called on the federal government to take responsible action regarding disaster management, asserting that local leaders must take the initiative to prepare for the upcoming season.
She remarked, “The fundamental responsibility of government is to keep the community safe,” adding that her administration is prepared to triple efforts locally, given the anticipated challenges.
As forecasts predict an above-average 2025 hurricane season with 13-19 storms expected in the Atlantic, local leaders are concerned about community preparedness.
NOAA also anticipates that around 3-5 of the projected storms will escalate into major hurricanes, with a more than 33% chance of a major hurricane making landfall on the U.S. Gulf Coast.
A recent Rice University survey indicated that only a small percentage—8% of Harris County residents—feel “very well-prepared” for a disaster.
Moreover, residents reported completing an average of just 4 out of 10 recommended preparedness actions put forth by FEMA.
Given the situation, local authorities are taking preventative measures to ensure the community is better equipped.
Precinct 4 officials have collaborated with contributors to provide air-conditioning units for vulnerable residents and are organizing nearly a dozen hurricane preparedness workshops at various community centers.
Briones urged residents to participate, saying, “What I hope all of us can do with our families is prepare, prepare, prepare,” encouraging the establishment of evacuation plans and emergency kits.
She also introduced a new regulation requiring senior living facilities to maintain generators, a policy enacted following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Beryl.
During Beryl, a Category 1 hurricane, over 44 facilities faced power outages, which contributed to more than 40 fatalities in the region.
Fortunately, many facilities have already complied with this regulation ahead of the 2026 deadline to ensure residents are protected during future emergencies.
As Houston braces for another hurricane season, local leaders are stepping up to address the gaps left by federal budget cuts, prioritizing community safety and preparedness amidst rising challenges.
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