Texas deals with more types of extreme weather than just about any other state. From brutal heat waves and hurricanes to ice storms and flash floods, it really runs the gamut.
The state’s sheer size and wildly different geography mean you might be sweating through 100-degree days one month and then waking up to freezing rain the next. If you want to ride out these storms safely, you need the right supplies, solid know-how, and a plan. Otherwise, you could end up in some truly dangerous situations.
Every year, climate patterns make Texas weather a little more unpredictable and a lot more intense. Hurricanes along the Gulf Coast keep getting stronger, heat waves drag on, and winter storms can knock out power for weeks.
These events do more than just disrupt your routine. They can cut off food, water, electricity, and emergency help for days, sometimes longer.
If you want to prep for Texas weather, you’ve got to know what risks come with your region. Build out a real emergency plan, not just a vague idea.
Assemble a disaster kit, secure your home, and think about how you’ll handle hurricanes, heat, ice, and whatever else gets thrown your way. The trick is to get ready before the storm shows up, not when everyone’s already rushing to the store.
Understanding Texas Weather Risks
Texas gets hit with all kinds of severe weather, from tornadoes and hurricanes to extreme heat and flooding. Recent climate data points to these events happening more often and with more punch.
Overview of Extreme Weather Events
Texas probably tops the list for dangerous weather in the U.S. Tornadoes are a huge threat, with 46 incidents in some recent five-year stretches.
Tornado Alley runs right through the state, so severe thunderstorms are a regular thing. These storms bring strong winds, big hail, and tornadoes that can be deadly.
Heat waves get rough in the summer. Days over 100 degrees can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke.
Hurricanes put the Gulf Coast at risk every year, bringing storm surge, flooding, and damaging winds. Their effects can reach far inland, too.
Flooding happens when heavy rain overwhelms drainage. Urban areas, in particular, get hammered by flash floods.
Wildfires move fast when it’s dry. Hot air and low humidity make for some scary fire weather.
Winter storms come with ice, snow, and freezing temps. Power grids and roads can shut down for days.
Seasonal Weather Patterns in Texas
Spring is tornado season in Texas. March through May brings the worst of it.
Thunderstorms tend to pop up in the afternoon and evening. The clash of warm and cold air makes things unpredictable.
Summer means heat, plain and simple. From June to September, temperatures soar and heat emergencies spike.
Hurricanes are a summer and fall problem, with the season running June through November. August and September are especially risky for coastal areas.
Fall brings a lingering hurricane threat into October, but cooler air usually means fewer severe thunderstorms.
Winter sometimes delivers ice storms and freezing weather. Arctic air can send temps crashing and make travel a nightmare.
Drought can show up any time of year. Long dry spells boost wildfire risk and strain water supplies.
Recent Weather Trends and Impacts
Climate records from 1900 to 2023 show Texas weather is changing fast. Extreme temperatures are on the rise.
By 2036, the number of 100-degree days could quadruple compared to the 1970s and 1980s. Recent summers have already shattered heat records.
Rainfall patterns are shifting, too. Eastern Texas gets about 15% more rain now than it did a century ago.
One-day rainfall extremes have jumped 10% statewide, which means more urban flooding in big cities.
Wildfire conditions are getting worse, especially out west. More days with fire-friendly weather mean longer fire seasons.
Water resources are under pressure. Hotter summers mean more evaporation, with water losses expected to climb 7% by 2036.
Hurricanes are doing more damage along the coast. Higher sea levels and sinking land make storm surges worse.
Building Your Extreme Weather Preparedness Kit
A solid emergency kit is your best friend when Texas weather turns ugly. You’ll need supplies for heat, floods, storms, and everything in between.
Don’t just set it and forget it—check those supplies regularly so they’re always ready.
Basic Emergency Supplies
Every home should have one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. Store it in clean containers and swap it out every six months.
Stock up on non-perishable food that’ll last at least three days. Go for stuff that doesn’t need cooking or chilling.
Some good options:
- Canned goods with pop-top lids
- Granola bars and crackers
- Peanut butter and nuts
- Dried fruit
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio keeps you in the loop when the power’s out. Don’t forget extra batteries for everything.
A first aid kit can handle cuts and scrapes. Pack bandages, antiseptic, pain meds, and a week’s worth of prescriptions.
Flashlights with LED bulbs last longer than the old kind. It’s smart to have one for each family member, plus a backup.
Cash is king when the power’s out and ATMs don’t work. Keep small bills in waterproof containers.
Special Considerations for Texas Homes
Texas heat gets brutal when the power’s down. Battery-powered fans can make a big difference.
Electrolyte packets help prevent dehydration during heat waves. They’re lighter than sports drinks and last longer.
Flooding is a real risk during hurricane season. Waterproof containers keep your important papers and supplies dry.
Other Texas must-haves:
- Insect repellent for post-flood mosquitoes
- Tarps for patching roofs
- Duct tape for quick fixes
- Solar-powered phone chargers
If you’re out in the country, you’ll want extra gear. Multi-purpose knives, rope, and work gloves help with cleanup.
Got livestock? You’ll need extra water and feed. Animals still need care, even if the power’s out.
Store generator fuel outdoors, never inside. Running one indoors is a carbon monoxide risk you don’t want.
Tools and Equipment
Manual can openers work when the power’s out. Same goes for other hand tools.
Plastic sheeting and duct tape can cover broken windows in a pinch. They’re light but super handy.
Other tools to toss in:
- Wrench for shutting off gas
- Local maps in waterproof bags
- Whistle for signaling
- Waterproof matches
Routine Kit Maintenance
Check expiration dates twice a year—maybe when you change your clocks. It’s an easy schedule to remember.
Clean and refill water containers twice a year. Stale water can grow bacteria.
Batteries lose juice even when you’re not using them. Test and swap them out as needed.
Rotate food by eating the oldest stuff first and replacing it right away.
Update your emergency contacts if numbers change. Make sure out-of-state folks are included for family communication.
Review your kit as your family grows or changes. Kids’ needs shift over time.
Keep kits somewhere everyone can get to. Basements flood, so higher shelves or closets work better.
Staying Informed and Connected During Weather Emergencies
Getting weather alerts from trusted sources and keeping in touch with family can honestly save lives during severe weather. Smart devices and a solid communication plan help Texans stay connected, even if the usual stuff goes down.
Weather Alerts and Reliable Information Sources
The National Weather Service gives the most accurate forecasts and emergency alerts in Texas. Sign up for NOAA Weather Radio to get real-time warnings for severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flash floods.
Local news stations offer updates specific to your area. Many have free apps with push notifications for weather warnings.
Know the difference:
- Watch: Conditions are right for severe weather
- Warning: Severe weather is happening or about to
The Emergency Alert System blasts messages to cell phones in danger zones. These alerts go through even if cell service is spotty.
Weather.gov and local emergency sites post official updates during storms. Meteorologists and emergency officials share info on social media, too.
Utilizing Technology and Smart Devices
Battery-powered weather radios are a lifesaver when the power’s out. They pick up NOAA broadcasts without needing internet.
Smartphone weather apps with radar and alerts are a must. Weather Underground and RadarScope let you track storms in detail.
Devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home can give voice-activated weather updates. Set them up with local emergency contacts ahead of time.
Portable battery packs keep your phone alive during outages. Solar chargers are handy if the power stays off for days.
Download offline maps and emergency apps before storms hit. Many apps keep recent radar data even if you lose internet.
Family and Community Communication Plans
Write down a family communication plan. Include everyone’s contact info, especially out-of-state relatives who can help coordinate.
Set up meeting spots:
- Near home
- Outside the neighborhood
- Outside the city
Pick one out-of-state contact. Long-distance calls sometimes work when local lines don’t.
Add ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts to every phone. Include medical info and emergency numbers.
Texting often works when calls fail. Group texts keep everyone in the loop fast.
Community networks like Nextdoor help neighbors share updates. Lots of Texas neighborhoods use these to report road closures and damage.
Protecting Your Home Against All Types of Weather
When it comes to your home, reinforcing the structure and managing water are key. Strong doors, windows, and roofs are your first defense, while good drainage keeps floods at bay.
Securing the Home Structure
Roof reinforcement is probably the most important upgrade. Replace old roofs with impact-resistant materials that can handle high winds. Metal roofing holds up well against hail and wind.
Window protection matters, too. Impact-rated windows or storm shutters keep debris out. Storm shutters are a cheaper option and can go up before a storm.
Door upgrades really help during bad weather. Steel doors with reinforced frames stand up to wind better than wood or fiberglass. Don’t forget the garage door—it’s a weak spot if not reinforced.
Foundation sealing stops water from sneaking in. Apply caulk to any gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation. It’s a simple fix that can save you a lot of trouble.
Proper insulation keeps your home comfortable during extreme heat and cold. Good insulation also saves on energy bills and helps protect your house from temperature swings.
Flood Prevention and Drainage Solutions
Gutter maintenance keeps water moving away from your house. Clean gutters and downspouts twice a year to avoid overflow and foundation damage.
Grading improvements make sure water runs away from your foundation. The ground should slope down at least six inches over ten feet. If it doesn’t, water will pool and cause problems.
French drains help redirect groundwater. They’re great for yards with drainage issues. Professionals can make sure they’re installed right.
Waterproofing basements keeps floods from wrecking your home. Use waterproof coatings and vapor barriers on basement walls. Sump pumps give extra protection during heavy rain.
Rain collection systems help with both flood prevention and water conservation. They collect runoff and ease the burden on drainage systems during storms.
Health and Safety During Extreme Heat
Texas heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be downright dangerous. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are real threats, so knowing the signs and how to prevent them is important.
Recognizing and Treating Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion hits when the body overheats and can’t cool off. People sweat a lot and feel weak or dizzy.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or fatigue
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Cool, moist skin
- Rapid pulse
If you spot these signs, act fast. Move the person to shade or a cool spot.
Give them water or sports drinks to sip slowly. Put cool, wet cloths on their skin and use a fan if you have one.
Take off any tight or extra clothing.
Call 911 right away if they:
- Vomit
- Pass out
- Have a high body temperature
- Seem confused
Heat stroke is much more serious than heat exhaustion. It needs emergency medical help, no question.
Daily Heat Safety Practices
Staying hydrated tops the list for heat safety. Drink water before you even feel thirsty.
Hydration tips:
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily.
- Choose sports drinks when you work outside for long periods.
- Skip alcohol and caffeine.
- Start your fluids early in the day.
Clothing really matters. Light-colored, loose clothes help reflect heat and let air flow. If you have a wide-brimmed hat, wear it to keep your head and face shaded.
Try to plan outdoor activities during cooler hours. Early mornings or late afternoons usually feel better. Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces every 30 minutes if you can.
Make your home cooler by using fans and air conditioning. Close the curtains during the day to block out sunlight.
Vulnerable Populations in High Temperatures
Children, older adults, and people with health conditions face higher risks during extreme heat. These groups need extra protection and someone to look out for them.
Children are at risk because:
- Their bodies heat up faster.
- They might not notice symptoms.
- They rely on adults for water and shade.
Never leave children in parked cars. Temperatures inside can hit 130 degrees in under 30 minutes, even on a 90-degree day.
Older adults sometimes don’t feel heat as quickly. Many take medications that mess with body temperature. Check on elderly neighbors and family members often.
People with heart disease, diabetes, or other chronic conditions should stay indoors when there’s a heat warning. They should talk to their doctors about a heat safety plan.
Outdoor workers need frequent breaks and lots of water. Employers have to provide shaded rest areas and give people time to adjust to the heat.
Preparing for Hurricanes, Floods, and Severe Storms
Texas gets hammered by hurricanes along the Gulf Coast, flash floods just about everywhere, and severe thunderstorms that can bring damaging winds or tornadoes. Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the worst usually happening in August and September.
Hurricane Readiness and Evacuation
If you live along the Texas coast, make an evacuation plan before hurricane season even starts. Hurricane-force winds can show up 36 hours before the storm’s center hits land.
Essential evacuation preparations include:
- Find your evacuation routes and backup options.
- Locate pet-friendly shelters or places to stay.
- Keep your gas tank full during hurricane season.
- Store important documents in waterproof containers.
Take photos of your property before storms for insurance. Storm surge is the biggest killer during hurricanes.
Officials issue evacuation orders when they expect life-threatening conditions. If you stay, you might go days without power, water, or emergency help.
Pre-storm home preparations:
- Put up storm shutters or cover windows with plywood.
- Secure outdoor furniture and equipment.
- Fill bathtubs and containers with water.
- Charge all your devices and backup batteries.
Flood Risk Assessment and Response
Flash floods hit Texas all year, but they’re more common in spring and fall. River flooding usually happens in spring and early summer.
Standard homeowner’s insurance won’t cover flood damage. If you live in a flood-prone area, get separate flood insurance.
Flood preparation steps:
- Clean gutters and drainage systems often.
- Install water alarms with battery backup.
- Raise utilities above possible flood levels.
- Keep sandbags and protective materials on hand.
During flood events:
- Don’t drive through flooded roads.
- Just six inches of water can knock down an adult.
- One foot of moving water can sweep away a car.
- Leave flooded vehicles right away.
Turn off main electrical breakers if flood water threatens your home. This helps prevent electrical hazards and appliance damage.
Sheltering During Severe Storms
Texas thunderstorms can spin up tornadoes, hail, and winds over 70 mph. These storms move fast, so you need to act quickly.
Safe shelter locations:
- Stay in interior rooms on the lowest floor.
- Use basements or storm cellars if you have them.
- Avoid windows, doors, and outside walls.
- Get away from mobile homes and vehicles.
Check weather alerts from several sources. Turn on wireless emergency alerts on your phone for critical warnings.
Shelter supplies to maintain:
- Battery-powered weather radio.
- Flashlights and extra batteries.
- First aid kit and medications.
- Water and non-perishable food for three days.
Severe storms can knock out power for a long time. Always use generators outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Cold Weather and Winter Storm Preparation
Texas winters sometimes bring freezing temperatures, ice storms, and snow. These conditions can get dangerous fast. If you prep your heating system, protect your pipes, and make sure your car’s ready, you’ll be in much better shape.
Insulating and Heating Your Home
Seal air leaks around windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping. Those little gaps let cold air in and warm air out.
Check your heating system before winter shows up. Change filters and get a pro to inspect your furnace or heat pump.
Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and garages. Wrap them with foam insulation or heating tape.
Stock up on extra blankets and warm clothes. Keep flashlights and batteries handy in case the power goes out.
Close off unused rooms so you can keep heat where you need it. Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can reach the pipes.
Have a backup heating plan ready. Space heaters, fireplaces, or generators can help if you lose power.
Protecting Water Pipes and Utilities
Disconnect and drain garden hoses before freezing weather hits. Shut off water to outdoor faucets and drain those lines.
Let faucets drip a little when it’s below freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze.
Know where your main water shut-off valve is. You might need to turn off water fast if a pipe bursts.
Insulate your water heater and pipes in unheated spaces. This keeps them from freezing and saves on energy.
Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night. Dropping it at night can make pipes freeze.
Protect your water meter by covering it with towels or blankets. Take the covering off once temperatures go back up.
Winter Vehicle Safety
Check your battery and charging system before the cold really sets in. Cold temperatures can zap your battery’s power fast.
Try to keep your gas tank at least half full. That way, you’ll help prevent frozen fuel lines and have a bit more flexibility if you get stuck somewhere.
Install winter tires or carry chains if you live where ice or snow happens often. Remember to check your tire pressure every month, since cold air makes it drop.
Pack an emergency kit with blankets, water, some snacks, and a flashlight. Don’t forget a first aid kit and a phone charger—just in case.
Avoid driving on icy roads if you can help it. If you have to go out, take it slow and leave extra room between you and the next car.
Clear all the snow and ice off your car before you hit the road. Make sure you get the roof, windows, and lights so you can actually see (and be seen).