{"id":87163,"date":"2023-09-22T14:20:22","date_gmt":"2023-09-22T21:20:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=87163"},"modified":"2023-09-28T11:10:09","modified_gmt":"2023-09-28T18:10:09","slug":"natural-disasters-in-texas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/natural-disasters-in-texas\/","title":{"rendered":"Natural Disasters in Texas: What Homeowners and Renters Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

The second-largest state both by area and population, Texas is known for its diverse landscape and ample nature. The state has <\/span>10<\/span> climate zones<\/span><\/a>, ranging from high plains and forests to humid marine prairies.<\/span> The state\u2019s <\/span>weather patterns<\/span><\/a> are heavily influenced by the nearby Rocky Mountains, expansive flat prairies, and the Gulf of Mexico, which provides most of the state\u2019s moisture.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

No matter which corner of Texas you live in, though, you are at risk of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, heat waves, drought, and more. When these happen, it\u2019s essential to be prepared.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So what are the most common natural disasters in Texas, how are they changing, and what can you do to prepare? Whether you\u2019re planning a <\/span>move to Dallas <\/span><\/a>or are looking at <\/span>apartments in Austin<\/span><\/a>, read on for everything you need to know.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"hurricane<\/p>\n

1. Texas flooding<\/span><\/h2>\n
Texas cities most at risk of flooding<\/b><\/h5>\n
    \n
  1. Port Lavaca<\/b>: 60% of properties at risk<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Rockport<\/b>: 54% of properties at risk<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Bay City<\/b>: 53% of properties at risk<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Flooding is the <\/span>most common<\/span><\/a> and deadliest natural disaster in Texas, giving it the nickname \u201c<\/span>Flash Flood Alley<\/span><\/a>.\u201d The <\/span>state is exceptionally prone to flooding<\/span><\/a> due to its pattern of receiving intense, short bursts of rain from thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Nearly every city in Texas<\/span><\/a> is at risk of flooding. In central and west Texas, <\/span>riverine floods<\/span><\/a> are especially common along the state\u2019s many rivers, and along the Gulf Coast, <\/span>urban flooding<\/span><\/a> can be catastrophic.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Texas\u2019 largest cities are prone to flooding, especially Houston. Houston is <\/span>highly susceptible<\/span><\/a> due to its lack of drainage, minimal zoning codes, rapid growth, and widespread paving over floodplains. That, paired with coastal and stormwater flooding, makes it highly prone to catastrophic flooding, which was demonstrated during Hurricane Harvey.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    How to prepare for flooding in Texas<\/span><\/h3>\n

    In Texas, <\/span>preparing for a flood<\/span><\/a> is essential during the wet summer and early fall, especially during hurricane and monsoon season. Here are a few tips to help prepare for flooding in Texas:<\/span><\/p>\n