Galveston County launches billboards counting down to hurricane season | Houston Public Media

Galveston County has put up eight digital billboards counting down the days to June 1 — the start of Atlantic hurricane season. The county's Office of Emergency Management runs this campaign every year to nudge Gulf Coast families to build emergency kits before storms arrive and store shelves empty out.

Eight digital billboards are displayed around Galveston County, reminding residents how many days are left before June 1. The campaign is a partnership between the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management and Clear Channel Outdoor, which donated the billboard space. Similar countdown billboards have also launched in Montgomery County and Fort Bend County. Colorado State University researchers forecast 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes for the 2026 season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will release its own outlook on May 21, with three more updates from Colorado State on June 10, July 8, and August 5.

You do not need to do everything at once. Director Ryholt suggests pacing your prep over a couple of weeks — add a pack of batteries one trip, a few cans of food the next. Galveston County officials recommend at least 72 hours of supplies for every person and pet in your home. That includes water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Also plan ahead for power outages: charge your devices, set up backup power, and make sure everyone in your household knows your evacuation route. Signing up for county-wide emergency alerts keeps you informed when conditions change.

No fixed date

Not location-specific

This campaign touches anyone living in or near Galveston, Harris, Montgomery, and Fort Bend counties. Houston-area residents face the same flooding and power-outage risks when a major storm moves inland. Local emergency management offices, community centers, and neighborhood associations often share preparedness resources — check with yours for additional support.

Hurricanes can hit our region fast and hard. Stores run out of water, batteries, and food quickly once a storm is in the forecast. Getting ready now — a little at a time — means you and your family are protected before the rush. As Galveston County Emergency Management Director Jesse Ryholt put it: 'It really only takes one storm to come through and really do some damage.' Even a season forecast to be quiet is no reason to wait.