The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is asking health care facilities, child care operators, and other regulated providers to take another look at their emergency plans as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season gets underway.

The season officially began June 1 and will run through November 30. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Atlantic could see six to 10 hurricanes this year. Three to five of them may become major hurricanes, which means Category 3 or stronger.

For Texas providers, the reminder is not just a routine notice. Severe weather has caused serious damage across the state in recent years, and facilities that care for children, older adults, patients, and people with medical needs are expected to be ready before a storm is on the way.

Stephen Pahl, deputy executive commissioner of HHSC Regulatory Services, said the impact of severe weather in Texas has shown why emergency planning matters. He noted that providers need plans their staff can use quickly when vulnerable clients are at risk.

HHSC requires long-term care providers to prepare for natural disasters, including hurricanes and flooding. This includes nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, hospices, and state-regulated group homes. Hospitals, dialysis centers, child care operations, and other acute care facilities are also required to keep their emergency plans updated and make sure employees know how to follow them during a crisis.

Emergency plans should cover the most important needs during extreme weather, including:

• Power outages
• Food and water supplies
• Communication with staff and families
• Staff shortages and assigned duties
• Ongoing care and treatment
• Shelter-in-place procedures
• Evacuation and transportation, when needed

HHSC also reminded facilities with generators to complete inspections, testing, and maintenance before a storm hits. A backup generator is only helpful if it works when the power goes out.

The agency said it continues to provide guidance to regulated providers on emergency planning. Providers can also use resources from the Department of State Health Services’ Texas Ready website, including sample plans, supply lists, and preparedness information.

The Atlantic hurricane season can affect communities along the Texas Gulf Coast and remains active through late November.

About HHSC Disaster Services

During emergencies, HHSC Disaster Services helps support public health and medical response efforts. Its work can include medical shelters, counseling services, disaster food assistance, water, ice, and support for people with medical needs. The program also assists health care facilities, long-term care providers, child care operations, and Medicaid providers with regulatory support and special waivers when needed.