What to know about hurricane evacuation routes

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — In order to seek safety and escape the threat of a hurricane, evacuations can be an effective strategy for families to follow.

Depending on the intensity of a hurricane, county officials may require mandatory evacuations to escape high winds and flooding conditions immediately.

The Texas Department of Transportation has created five hurricane evacuation routes for the Rio Grande Valley, all leading away from the Gulf of Mexico coast and into a mainland area.

Hurricane evacuation route signs are posted on the side of the road to indicate you are moving in the right direction.

The sign is labeled in blue and white with a hurricane symbol and an arrow that follows the route.

TxDOT recommends the following incase of an evacuation:

• Assemble a disaster supplies kit
• Secure your home and outdoor items against disaster
• Fill your vehicle with gas as early as possible
• Bring extra cash
• Notify family and friends of evacuation plan and destination
• Develop an emergency plan
• Teach your kids how to contact 911 incase of an emergency
• Expect longer travel times to destinations