South Texans Encouraged to Prepare Medical Needs Early During Hurricane Season
5/28/2026
While there are currently no major storms threatening the Gulf, healthcare professionals say now is the time for South Texas residents to prepare for hurricane season—especially when it comes to managing medical needs before an emergency occurs. Advance planning for medications, medical equipment, evacuation needs, and important health records can help families avoid dangerous disruptions in care if severe weather develops later this season.
Every year, hurricanes threaten the Texas Gulf Coast with flooding, power outages, road closures, and evacuations that can quickly become dangerous for individuals with chronic medical conditions, disabilities, or ongoing healthcare needs.
“During and after a hurricane, access to pharmacies, electricity, transportation, and medical care can be disrupted for days,” said Clayton Ley, MSN, R.N., trauma program manager at DeTar Healthcare System. “People who rely on daily medications, medical devices, or specialized care need to start planning now—not when a storm is already approaching the coast.”
Medical Preparedness Starts Before the Forecast
Healthcare professionals recommend residents begin assembling a medical emergency plan now to avoid last-minute shortages and dangerous interruptions in care.
Medication & Prescription Planning
Residents should maintain at least a 14-day supply of all essential daily medications whenever possible.
“Running out of medication during a disaster can quickly turn a manageable condition into a medical emergency,” Ley said. “Families should refill prescriptions early and keep printed copies of medication lists, dosages, and pharmacy information in a waterproof container.”
For medications that require refrigeration, such as insulin, residents should prepare coolers with reusable cold packs in case of prolonged power outages.
Experts also recommend including over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, antacids, anti-diarrheal medications, and a complete first aid kit in every emergency supply kit.
Prepare Medical Equipment and Power Sources
For residents who rely on medical devices such as CPAP machines, oxygen equipment, hearing aids, or powered wheelchairs, backup power planning is essential.
“Portable battery packs, solar chargers, and extra batteries can make a tremendous difference during extended outages,” Ley said. “If your health depends on electricity, you should have multiple backup options in place before hurricane season intensifies.”
Residents should also stock at least two weeks of medical supplies such as syringes, glucose test strips, catheters, oxygen supplies, and wound care items.
Individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities are encouraged to wear medical alert bracelets or carry identification detailing medical conditions and emergency contacts.
Plan for Evacuation Before an Emergency Happens
Emergency officials urge residents with medical or mobility needs to register in advance for transportation or assistance services.
Individuals who require electricity-dependent medical equipment or transportation support during evacuations can register through the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR).
“Evacuations become much more stressful when families are trying to gather medical supplies and make decisions at the last minute,” Ley said. “Knowing where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, and what medical items you’ll need can save valuable time and reduce risk.”
Residents should also identify evacuation routes ahead of time and download the FEMA Mobile App to locate shelters and receive emergency alerts.
Protect Important Medical Documents
Healthcare professionals recommend keeping hard copies of the following documents in a sealed waterproof bag or portable container:
- Prescription information
- Insurance cards
- Identification documents
- Emergency contacts
- Medical records and physician information
Residents should also store digital copies securely on their phones or cloud storage platforms and share access with trusted family members.
General Hurricane Preparedness Remains Important
In addition to medical planning, families are encouraged to:
- Sign up for local emergency alerts
- Monitor NOAA weather forecasts
- Assemble emergency food and water supplies
- Secure homes and outdoor items
- Review evacuation routes with family members
- Make plans for pets, seniors, and children
Health and Safety Begin with Preparation
“The more planning families do now, the more confident and protected they’ll be if severe weather threatens South Texas,” Ley said. “Preparation today can prevent medical emergencies tomorrow.”
For the latest tropical storm tracking and evacuation information, residents should monitor the Victoria County Office of Emergency Management at www.vctx.org/page/oem.home. The Victoria County OEM Hurricane Preparedness Guide 2026 is also available on their website to download: https://www.vctx.org/page/oem.hurricane.
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