Flooding in Texas: What to Know and How to Prepare
Image by rawpixel.com
Texas is a state known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Gulf Coast to the Hill Country and to the arid deserts of West Texas. Unfortunately, along with its stunning natural beauty, Texas is also home to frequent and devastating floods.
Flooding is a recurring problem for Texas, with a long history of catastrophic flood events and emergencies that have caused billions of dollars in damages and claimed many lives. We will explore the types of floods that occur in Texas, the most flood-prone areas in the state, and the steps homeowners and businesses can take to protect themselves from the impact of floods.
Texas is no stranger to flooding, with several common types of floods that occur across the state, including flash floods, river floods, and coastal floods.
Types of Floods That Occur in Texas:
Flash floods are the most common type of flood in Texas and occur when heavy rainfall overwhelms the capacity of drainage systems and causes water to rapidly accumulate on streets and other low-lying areas. These floods can occur at any time of the year, but they are most common in the spring and fall when Texas experiences its heaviest rainfall. Homes and businesses situated in flood-prone areas must take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the devastating impact of flash floods.
River floods occur when water levels in rivers, streams, and other bodies of water rise to dangerous levels and overflow their banks. These floods are typically caused by heavy rainfall or snowmelt and can last for days or even weeks. River floods are most common in the spring and early summer when snow melts and rainfall is at its heaviest. Properties situated near rivers or streams must be mindful of potential flooding and ensure that they have adequate flood insurance coverage.
Coastal floods are less common in Texas, but they can be incredibly destructive when they do occur. These floods are typically caused by hurricanes and other major storms, which can cause storm surges and inundate low-lying coastal areas with water. Coastal floods are most common during hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Coastal properties must take additional precautions, including elevating their buildings and investing in flood barriers, to protect themselves from coastal floods.
Major Storms to Impact Texas:
Some of the major storms that have caused flooding in Texas in recent years include Hurricane Harvey, which struck the state in August 2017 and caused an estimated $125 billion in damage, making it one of the costliest natural disasters in US history. In 2015, the Memorial Day Floods caused widespread damage across central Texas, with an estimated 20 fatalities and $300 million in damages.
The value of damage caused by flooding in Texas can be staggering. According to the National Flood Insurance Program, the average flood insurance claim in Texas is $57,000, but claims can be much higher depending on the severity of the flood. In 2019 alone, flooding in Texas caused an estimated $6.8 billion in damages, according to the Texas Department of Emergency Management.
Time of Year Texas Experiences Flooding:
The most vulnerable time of year for flooding in Texas depends on the type of flood. Flash floods are most common in the spring and fall, while river floods are most common in the spring and early summer. Coastal floods are most common during hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
As a flood control company, we are committed to helping Texans prepare for and respond to floods. We offer a range of services, including flood risk assessments, site evaluation and proper solutions to prevent damage from flooding. By working together, we can help protect homes and businesses from the devastating impact of flooding in Texas.
Where is the Flooding in Texas?
Texas is a large state, and flooding can occur in different regions for different reasons. However, there are some areas of Texas that are more prone to flooding than others. Here are some of the most flood-prone areas in Texas:
Houston: Houston is located on the Gulf Coast, and the city's low-lying terrain makes it particularly vulnerable to coastal flooding during hurricanes and tropical storms. In addition, Houston is also prone to flash flooding due to its heavy rainfall and a high number of impervious surfaces like roads and buildings.
Central Texas: Central Texas, including the cities of Austin and San Antonio, is prone to flash flooding due to its hilly terrain and frequent thunderstorms. Flash floods can occur suddenly and without warning, making them particularly dangerous.
Rio Grande Valley: The Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas is prone to river flooding due to its proximity to the Rio Grande, which is prone to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
North Texas: North Texas, including the Dallas-Fort Worth area, is prone to flash flooding due to its flat terrain and frequent thunderstorms.
It's important to note that flooding can occur in any part of Texas, and it's essential to take necessary precautions to protect your property from the devastating impact of floods. Garrison Flood Control is here to assist you in choosing the right method of flood protection for your needs. We offer a variety of flood control solutions to choose from and here to assist you along the way.
Best Ways to Prepare for Potential Flooding in Texas:
Preparing for potential flooding in Texas is essential to minimize damage and ensure the safety of individuals and communities. The following are some of the best ways to prepare for potential flooding in Texas:
Know Your Flood Risk: Understanding your risk of flooding is essential in preparing for potential flooding. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a flood map service center that can help you determine your flood risk.
Purchase Flood Insurance: Flood insurance is essential to protect your property and assets from flood damage. It's important to note that standard homeowners' insurance policies do not cover flood damage.
Create an Emergency Plan: Creating an emergency plan is crucial in case of flooding. The plan should include an evacuation route, a designated meeting place, and a communication plan.
Stay Informed: Staying informed about weather conditions and flood warnings is essential in preparing for potential flooding. The National Weather Service provides regular updates on weather conditions and flood warnings.
Prepare Your Property: Preparing your property before flooding can help minimize damage. This includes clearing gutters and drains, moving valuables to higher ground, and installing flood barriers. Securing the proper flood protection solutions from a trusted manufacturer will put you in the best position to succeed against potential flood damage.
Find The Perfect Texas Flood Solutions with Garrison!
Garrison™️ Flood Control specializes in the manufacturing and installation of flood protection solutions for homes, businesses, and municipalities throughout Texas. Our purpose is to provide reliable, effective, and affordable flood protection systems that can help mitigate the impact of floods and protect properties and assets.
Garrison Flood Control offers a wide range of flood protection solutions, including flood barriers, flood gates, flood bags, and more. We have established a reputation for delivering high-quality products and exceptional customer service.
Contact Garrison Today!
Garrison is here to help you find the best products that fit your protection needs. Feel free to contact us and we can start creating a dedicated flood plan for your property.
Garrison™ Flood Control is a New York-based manufacturer and distributor of a complete line of flood control products. Garrison products contain, divert, and re-route water away from valuable property, equipment, infrastructure, and facilities and help prevent flood damage due to rising water levels.
If you would like additional information about Garrison™️ Flood Control Systems, please call 929-299-2099 or email sales@garrisonflood.com.