Hurricane Evacuation

Know Your Evacuation Zone Before Hurricane Season in Galveston County

Galveston County uses lettered evacuation zones, and knowing yours before a storm can save your life.

Galveston Island is only connected to the mainland by a few bridges and causeways. That makes early evacuation critical. The county assigns evacuation zones — Coastal, A, B, and C — based on storm surge risk. The Coastal zone carries the highest risk; all of Galveston Island falls in the Coastal zone. Zones A, B, and C follow in order of decreasing risk. Do not wait until a mandatory order is issued to start planning.

Know your zone and your route before June 1, which starts hurricane season. Designated evacuation routes are signed on major roads. Keep gas in your tank and a go-bag ready during the season. Check the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management at gcoem.org for your zone and the current hurricane preparedness guide each spring.

Source to confirm: Galveston County Office of Emergency Management

More Galveston County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Galveston County

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax office collects what you owe — and they are two separate offices.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill in Galveston County

If you own and live in your home, you can apply for a homestead exemption that reduces how much of your property value gets taxed.

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MUD / PID / Special Districts

Galveston County Has Dozens of Special Tax Districts

Many newer neighborhoods in the county sit inside a Municipal Utility District or other special district that adds an extra layer of taxes to your bill.

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Windstorm Insurance

Most Galveston County Homes Need a Separate Windstorm Policy

Private home insurance in Galveston County usually does not cover hurricane wind damage, so many owners must buy a separate policy from TWIA.

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