frequently asked questions

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) works year-round to prepare for, respond to, recover from, and help mitigate disasters and emergencies that may impact San Patricio County. This includes coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure. 

San Patricio County prepares for a wide range of emergencies, including hurricanes, flooding, severe weather, hazardous materials incidents, wildfires, extreme heat, power outages, and public health emergencies. 

During an emergency, the county may activate its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate response efforts. Emergency management works closely with first responders, municipalities, school districts, hospitals, and state agencies to share information, allocate resources, and support public safety. 

Residents may receive emergency notifications through the county’s mass notification system, local media, weather alerts, and official social media channels. Signing up for emergency alerts at reversealert.org or by texting your zip code to 888777 is the best way to receive timely and accurate information. 

Residents can sign up for local emergency alerts through the county’s emergency notification system at reversealert.org or by texting their zip code to 888777. Alerts may be sent by phone call, text message, or email depending on user preferences. 

Read or listen to the alert carefully and follow all instructions provided. Alerts may include information about evacuations, shelter locations, road closures, or protective actions such as sheltering in place. 

Local elected officials, such as the County Judge and Mayors, serve as the chief emergency management authorities for their jurisdictions. The Office of Emergency Management coordinates response efforts and supports these officials during emergencies. 

Yes. Evacuation orders may be issued when there is a significant threat to life safety, such as during hurricanes or flooding. Residents should follow evacuation orders promptly and use designated routes when provided. 

Shelter information is shared through emergency alerts, local media, and official county communication channels during an emergency. Shelter availability may vary depending on the situation. 

The Emergency Operations Center is a central location where county officials, emergency responders, and partner agencies coordinate response and recovery activities during major incidents or disasters. 

San Patricio County coordinates closely with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), the State of Texas, and federal partners such as FEMA to request resources, assistance, and disaster recovery support when needed. 

Emergency Management Coordinators in Texas are required to complete state-mandated training through the Texas Division of Emergency Management, including courses based on the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS). Ongoing training and continuing education are required to maintain certification. 

Residents are encouraged to develop a family emergency plan, build an emergency supply kit, stay informed about local hazards, and sign up for emergency alerts before a disaster occurs. 

The county does not typically provide direct financial assistance. However, the Office of Emergency Management helps coordinate access to state and federal disaster assistance programs when they become available. 

Residents can learn more by visiting the San Patricio County website,  attending community preparedness events, following official county social media and communication channels, and reviewing preparedness materials shared by the Office of Emergency Management.