Texas is a
very large state with significant variations in climate and weather conditions.
It is important to understand the most common weather hazards and how to prepare
for them. Swedes who are new to Texas are encouraged to familiarize themselves with
these resources before severe weather occurs. More information is available at Texas Ready – Be informed.
Make a plan. Build a kit.
Hurricane
Season
Along the Atlantic
and Gulf Coasts, hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. The
Texas Gulf Coast can be affected by both tropical storms and hurricanes that bring
strong winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, and flooding.
If you live
near the coast, you should:
Tropical
Storms and Heavy Rainfall
Even when a
tropical storm does not develop into a hurricane, it can produce large amounts of
rainfall and widespread flooding, sometimes far inland from the coast.
Flooding
and Flash Flooding
Flooding is
one of the most common and dangerous weather-related hazards in Texas. Central Texas,
often referred to as "Flash Flood Alley," is particularly vulnerable
to sudden flooding following heavy rainfall.
Flash flooding
means that water levels can rise very rapidly, sometimes within minutes. Roads that
appear passable can quickly become life-threatening.
Important
safety tips:
Severe Thunderstorms
Severe thunderstorms
occur regularly in Texas, especially during spring and early summer. These storms
can bring:
Tornadoes
Texas is part
of a region of the United States that frequently experiences tornadoes. Tornadoes
can develop very quickly during severe thunderstorms.
If a Tornado
Warning is issued:
Wildfires
in Texas
Texas regularly
experiences wildfires and grass fires, particularly during periods of drought, high
temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. Fires can spread rapidly in dry conditions
and affect both rural areas and communities.
During periods
of elevated fire danger, local authorities may:
People living
in areas with increased wildfire risk should monitor local alerts, maintain an evacuation
plan, and be prepared to leave if authorities issue an evacuation order.
Winter Storms
in Texas
Although Texas
is often associated with warm weather, the state can also experience winter storms
that bring snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and frost.
Severe winter
weather may result in:
Residents are
encouraged to monitor weather forecasts closely, avoid unnecessary travel during
winter weather events, and maintain an emergency supply kit at home.
Understanding
National Weather Service Alerts
In the United
States, weather alerts commonly use the terms Watch and Warning:
How to Prepare
Texas emergency
management officials recommend that every household:
Emergency
Alerts
Important
Resources