When hurricanes approach the Texas coast, every second counts. For businesses, understanding Texas Hurricane Evacuation Zones isn’t just about safety—it’s about protecting employees, ensuring business continuity, and reducing costly downtime. With billions in economic losses tied to past storms, knowing your zone, your hurricane evacuation route, and how to execute a clear plan can mean the difference between resilience and prolonged disruption.

In this guide, we’ll explain how evacuation zones are determined, spotlight key areas in Houston and surrounding counties, and outline actionable steps businesses can take to prepare for a Texas evacuation.

What Are Evacuation Zones?

Evacuation zones are pre-designated areas identified by local officials that determine who needs to leave and when. These zones are mapped based on:

• Geography: Coastal and low-lying regions face higher risk.
• Historical Data: Previous storm impacts help shape today’s evacuation maps.
• Storm Surge Models: Forecast flooding potential based on storm intensity and path.

For businesses, knowing your zone means understanding whether your facilities, warehouses, or offices are in a high-risk area—and preparing accordingly.
 

Evacuation zones map (KPRC 2)

Houston’s Evacuation Zones and Business Impact

As one of the largest U.S. metro areas near the Gulf, Houston is especially vulnerable. Its evacuation zones are color-coded and phased to prioritize departures.

Key Business Considerations

• Harris County: Home to major logistics hubs and corporate centers that require tailored evacuation plans.
• Galveston: With its low elevation and tourism-driven economy, businesses here are often among the first subject to mandatory evacuations.

Understanding how these Texas Hurricane Evacuation Zones overlap with your operations is crucial for continuity planning.

Texas Hurricane Evacuation Routes

For safe and efficient evacuations, businesses must align their plans with official hurricane evacuation routes. These include:

I-45: The main northbound corridor from Galveston through Houston.
I-10: Runs east-west and supports evacuations from Southeast Texas.
U.S. 290: A vital route for northwest Houston businesses and residents.

Companies should map these routes against facility locations and employee commutes, accounting for congestion and potential road closures.

Planning a Business Evacuation Strategy

A resilient Texas evacuation plan should cover:

• Know Your Zone: Audit facilities against official evacuation maps.
• Preparedness Kits: Stock emergency supplies, backup data, and equipment protection.
• Employee Communication: Train staff on protocols and assign evacuation roles.
• Alternate Routes: Identify backup routes to maintain flexibility.

by Thomas Ho (https://unsplash.com/@hoxtom)

Counties Frequently Evacuated

Businesses in these counties should treat evacuation planning as essential, not optional:

• Galveston County
• Brazoria County
• Chambers County

Their proximity to the coast and low elevation make them particularly vulnerable to storm surge and flooding.

The Role of Local Authorities in Business Resilience

During evacuations, local and state authorities issue orders, provide shelters, and coordinate transport. Companies that integrate these resources into their continuity strategies will be better positioned to minimize disruption and accelerate recovery.
 

Why Businesses Should Prepare with Disasters Expo Texas

For Texas businesses, understanding Texas Hurricane Evacuation Zones is a vital step toward long-term resilience. By safeguarding employees, protecting assets, and planning around hurricane evacuation routes, organizations can withstand disruptions and emerge stronger.

To take preparation further, connect with industry leaders, emergency management experts, and solution providers at Disasters Expo Texas. This event gives businesses the tools, strategies, and technologies they need to strengthen continuity, protect operations, and prepare for future hurricanes.

Don’t just react—equip your business with the knowledge and solutions that drive resilience at Disasters Expo Texas.