Texans 'still recovering from multiple natural disasters in a short period of time'

Hurricane preparation is very expensive, especially for those still recovering from previous storms or natural disasters. 

Many low-income communities across the Gulf Coast have not fully recovered from Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

Since then, they've experienced three named storms, an unprecedented winter storm and flash flooding that comes from heavy rain.

"Our neighbors, especially vulnerable communities, are still recovering from multiple natural disasters in a short period of time," said Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis in a post to his Twitter account on June 24. "As we prepare for the current hurricane season, I will continue to advocate for equity so people in every zip code can access the resources they need."

Issues with insurance from past storms have also exacerbated hurricane preparation for some families. 

“We had to find a new policy and company, even though my aunt had been with this company for 15 years,” said Chrishelle Palay, whose home in Kashmere Gardens, a community in Northeast Houston prone to floods, still had a leaky roof from Hurricane Harvey. “Most families don’t have that [money], especially in my neighborhood. They’re left exposed and vulnerable to the environment.” 

Flood insurance to help with Palay's roof was expected to cost $4,000. Aid officials have doubts as to how well people will be able to handle this hurricane season.

“Normally, we tell people: have $300 to $500 available, prepare three to five days worth of clothes, of non-perishable food," said Roishetta Ozane, co-founder of the Vessel Project, which is a mutual aid effort in Lake Charles. “But then you had Laura hit, and we were away from home for a month. And then here comes Delta right behind it, and we’re out for another couple of weeks.” 

Despite tax-free weekends in which essential supplies and equipment don't have sales tax applied to them, preparation still proves costly. There are virtually no federal or state government aid programs to deal with this problem. This season is expected to be longer with more intense storms because of climate change.