Welcome

Welcome to the Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (OHSEM) Web site. Updated daily, this Web site gives you the tools to get informed, get prepared, and get involved. An involved community is a well prepared community and your family’s partnership with Harris County is the foundation of our homeland security and emergency management strategy. Harris County Judge Ed Emmett and OHSEM hope you will visit our site often. Download HCOHSEM Disaster Preparedness Guide here Download National Preparedness Month 2010 brochure here

What to do during a Tornado

The National Weather Service issues Tornado Watches and Tornado Warnings. There is a difference between the two: A Tornado Watch means that formation of tornadoes is possible. You should remain alert for storms. Watch the sky and listen to your TV or radio, or better yet, listen to NOAA Weather Radio. In the sky, look for the following danger signs: Large, dark, often greenish clouds – especially if it appears to be rotating Large hail Loud roar, similar to a freight train. Small bright explosions near the ground (electrical transformers being knocked out) If you see any of these warning signs, take shelter immediately! When a tornado is sighted, the most important rule is to “get low and stay low.” A Tornado Warning means that a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. You should take shelter immediately! About tornadoes What to do before a tornado What to do after a tornado