Bertha in plain terms (what we’re watching)
Even when a system isn’t forecast to be a major hurricane, tropical storms can still bring impactful hazards:
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- Gusty winds (enough to bring down small limbs, cause scattered outages, and make driving tougher on bridges)
- Torrential downpours (short bursts that can overwhelm streets/ditches, especially in typical flood-prone spots)
- Coastal impacts like rough surf and rip currents
Tropical Storm Bertha is not a hurricane but is expected to bring breezy conditions, storms, and heavier rain closer to the coast (and that this is a good time to review plans and refresh supplies).
The 3 biggest risks to prepare for in Southeast Texas
1) Flash flooding from tropical rain
Houston doesn’t need a named hurricane to flood. The key issue is rainfall rate—tropical bands can drop heavy rain quickly.
Do now:
- Clear storm drains near your home (safely)
- Know your alternate routes to work and frequent places
- If you’ve flooded before, stage towels/sandbags (if used) and move valuables up
2) Power outages + heat
A “weaker” storm can still knock out power. In July heat, outages become a safety issue fast.
Do now:
- Charge battery banks and backup phone chargers
- Fuel vehicles early (don’t wait until warnings)
- Set your fridge/freezer colder (and freeze water jugs to help hold temps)
3) Coastal hazards (even if you’re inland)
Bertha-related swells can mean dangerous surf and rip currents along Gulf beaches.
Do now:
- If you’re headed to the beach, check local advisories and treat the water as off-limits when warnings are up
Your “before the storm” checklist (48–72 hours out)
Use this as a quick run-through as forecasts tighten.
Home + property
- Bring in or tie down outdoor items (patio furniture, trash cans)
- Test flashlights and replace batteries
- Set a plan for pets (see Pet section below)
Communications
- Pick an out-of-town contact everyone can text/call
- Make sure everyone knows how they’ll get alerts (local weather, emergency alerts)
Documents + cash
- Put IDs, insurance info, and key papers in a waterproof bag or container
- Have some cash on hand for post-storm disruptions
Build (or refresh) a 7‑day hurricane kit—without blowing your budget
Families can build a 7‑day kit affordably, which matters because preparedness shouldn’t require a big one-time shopping trip.
Prioritize in this order:
- Water
- Food you can eat without cooking
- Medications + basic first aid
- Lights + batteries
- Phone charging + a way to get info (radio)
Tip: build in layers (each grocery run adds a few shelf-stable items), and focus on what your household will actually use.
If you might need to evacuate: decide early and know your zone
One of the biggest mistakes is waiting until roads are packed.
Evacuation emphasizes that when and which route depends heavily on your evacuation zone—not everyone in the Houston region should leave for every storm.
Do now (before you need it):
- Find out whether you’re in a storm surge evacuation zone
- Identify 2–3 evacuation routes
- Pre-pack a “go bag” so you can leave quickly if officials call for it
Pets: don’t make last-minute plans
Have a pet plan now, not when you’re scrambling.
Pet essentials to stage:
- Food/water for several days
- Medications
- Leash/carrier
- Copies of vaccination records
- Comfort items (blanket/toy)
During the storm: what to actually do
- Stay inside and away from windows during the worst bands
- Avoid driving through flooded streets (Houston flooding can hide stalled cars, debris, and washed-out road edges)
- Keep devices charged when power is on; conserve when it’s off
After the storm: first steps
Once conditions improve:
- Treat downed lines as live
- Watch for debris, nails, and standing water hazards
- Take photos of damage for insurance before major cleanup
- Check on neighbors (especially elderly or those with medical needs)
Use Bertha as the rehearsal
Emergency managers have urged residents to use Bertha as a reminder to:
- Review family emergency plans
- Check hurricane supply kits
- Replenish food, water, and medications
That’s the right approach: practice on the “smaller” storms so you’re ready for the one that isn’t.
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