HOUSTON, Texas — The City of Houston has activated a Joint Information Center (JIC) for the FIFA World Cup 2026, bringing more than 20 agencies together to coordinate emergency messaging and public safety operations during the tournament, according to city officials.
The Houston Office of Emergency Management announced the activation as part of preparations for managing events across the city’s 640 square miles during the international soccer tournament.
City officials said the JIC will serve as a centralized communication hub for emergency information involving local, state, and federal agencies working on tournament-related operations.
Brian Mason, executive director of the Houston Office of Emergency Management and Houston TranStar, said agencies will coordinate planning for World Cup venues while maintaining regular city services.
Officials said the coordination effort includes first responders who will expand operations during the tournament to handle increased population and event activity.
The city also established two text-based alert systems for emergency communication. Residents can receive general emergency and weather alerts by texting “ALERTHOUSTON” to 888777. Visitors attending World Cup events can receive tournament-specific alerts by texting “HOUWC26” to 888777.
Officials said the systems are intended to provide targeted messaging during severe weather and event-related emergencies.
City officials also said they are preparing for health and safety risks related to extreme heat and humidity during the tournament period.
Mason said officials expect many international visitors who are not acclimated to local summer conditions and urged attendees to monitor their physical condition during outdoor activities.
