Living along the Texas Gulf Coast means beautiful weather, long summers, and plenty of pool
days, but it also means preparing for hurricane season each year. From heavy rain and strong
winds to extended power outages, tropical weather can take a serious toll on your swimming
pool and outdoor living space if you’re not prepared.
At Southern Charm Pools, we know how unpredictable Texas weather can be. Proper preparation
before a storm arrives can help protect your pool equipment, reduce cleanup time, and potentially
save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Here’s how to get your pool ready before, during, and after hurricane season on the Gulf Coast.
When Is Hurricane Season in Texas?
Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity typically
happening between August and October.
For homeowners in League City, Kemah, Friendswood, Clear Lake, Galveston, and surrounding
areas, tropical storms can bring:
• Torrential rainfall
• Strong winds
• Flying debris
• Storm surge flooding
• Power outages
Preparing your pool before a storm warning is issued makes the process far less stressful when
severe weather approaches.
Should You Drain Your Pool Before a
Hurricane?
One of the biggest misconceptions during hurricane prep is that you should drain your pool.
Do NOT completely drain your pool.Your pool is designed to hold water, and removing it entirely can create structural problems,
especially in areas with high groundwater levels like the Texas Gulf Coast. In some cases, an
empty pool can actually lift or “float” due to hydrostatic pressure beneath the shell.
Instead:
• Lower the water level slightly if heavy rainfall is expected
• Keep water about 12–18 inches below the coping if advised by your builder
• Never drain the pool fully unless specifically instructed by a professional
Balance Your Pool Chemistry Before the
Storm
Heavy rain can throw your water chemistry completely out of balance. Before the storm hits:
• Shock the pool
• Balance pH and alkalinity
• Add algaecide
• Clean the pool thoroughly
This helps prevent algae blooms and bacteria growth if your system loses power for several days.
A properly balanced pool before the storm usually recovers much faster afterward.
Protect Your Pool Equipment
Your pool equipment is one of the most vulnerable parts of your backyard during severe weather.
Before the storm arrives:
• Turn off power to pool equipment if flooding becomes likely
• Secure or cover exposed equipment if possible
• Remove loose items around the equipment pad
• Take photos of your equipment for insurance documentation
If flooding is expected, do not run submerged equipment until it has been professionally
inspected.
Secure Outdoor Furniture and Backyard
ItemsStrong winds can quickly turn patio furniture and backyard decor into dangerous projectiles.
Before the storm:
• Bring patio furniture indoors
• Secure umbrellas and cushions
• Remove pool toys and floats
• Store grills and portable equipment safely
• Trim weak tree branches around the pool area
This protects not only your pool, but also your home and neighboring property.
Should You Cover Your Pool?
Surprisingly, many pool professionals recommend not using a traditional pool cover during a
hurricane.
High winds can damage the cover or pull anchors loose, potentially causing more problems than
leaving the pool uncovered.
If you have an automatic cover:
• Consult your manufacturer guidelines
• Secure it according to storm recommendations
• Avoid placing heavy objects on the cover
Your pool itself can actually help absorb rainfall overflow during major storms.
What to Do if the Power Goes Out
Power outages are extremely common during tropical storms and hurricanes.
If you lose power:
• Turn off breakers to pool equipment
• Avoid restarting systems until power stabilizes
• Inspect equipment carefully before restarting
• Remove debris manually from the water when safe
Stagnant water for a short period usually won’t damage the pool itself, but chemical balance
should be checked immediately once power returns.
Cleaning Up Your Pool After the StormOnce the storm passes and conditions are safe, it’s time to assess the damage and begin cleanup.
Start with:
• Removing large debris from the pool
• Emptying skimmer baskets
• Checking water levels
• Inspecting equipment for visible damage
• Testing water chemistry
After major rainfall, your pool will likely need:
• Additional chlorine
• pH balancing
• Shock treatment
• Filter cleaning
Avoid swimming until the water is fully balanced and circulation is restored.
Watch for Hidden Damage
Even if your pool looks fine at first glance, storms can sometimes cause hidden issues.
Keep an eye out for:
• Cracked tiles or coping
• Equipment leaks
• Electrical issues
• Loose decking
• Soil erosion around the pool
• Drainage problems
Addressing small issues early can prevent major repairs later.
Hurricane Preparation Starts Before the
Forecast
The best time to prepare your pool for hurricane season is before a storm is ever announced.
Having a plan in place makes everything easier when severe weather develops quickly in the
Gulf.
At Southern Charm Pools, we help homeowners throughout League City, Kemah, Friendswood,
Clear Lake, and surrounding Gulf Coast communities protect their pools and outdoor living
spaces year-round.Whether you need equipment upgrades, automation systems, pool remodels, or guidance
preparing for storm season, our experienced team is here to help.
Trust Southern Charm Pools to Help Protect
Your Backyard Investment
Your swimming pool is more than just a feature in your backyard. It’s an investment in your
home, your family, and your lifestyle. Protecting it during hurricane season is one of the smartest
things you can do as a Texas pool owner.
Contact Southern Charm Pools today to learn more about pool maintenance, equipment
upgrades, remodels, and outdoor living solutions designed for Gulf Coast living.
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