Brownsville Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 223,416 and a calculated risk score of 97.4, Brownsville faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Brownsville, TX. From its neighborhoods to its downtown, Brownsville is unique. But ignoring the local climate risks is not an option. Our data indicates a specific vulnerability to river flooding.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 97.402, Brownsville requires specific preparation. The data highlights River Flooding as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Top Hazards for The Brownsville Area
Within the specific ecosystem of Texas, river flooding frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 99.2/100. Residents in low-lying zones should have evacuation routes mapped out well in advance.
Long-standing weather records for Texas indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter heat waves. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 99.2. Surge protectors and whole-home backup solutions are increasingly popular investments.
Long-standing weather records for Texas indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter hurricanes. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 98.8. Heavy rainfall events can quickly overwhelm local drainage, making situational awareness key.

The Apartment Fortress
Living in Brownsville? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Brownsville
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Brownsville. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Prepare for secondary heat waves if power is lost.
- 2Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 3Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 4Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 5Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
Essential Gear for Brownsville

Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.

Power
Jackery Explorer 300
Keep phones and laptops charged during multi-day outages.

Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
Do not wait for a River Flooding warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | 100.0 | Choosing between Brownsville and Houston? Brownsville presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Dallas | 98.7 | When compared to Dallas, Brownsville is statistically safer. The difference of 1.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Antonio | 97.5 | San Antonio and Brownsville share similar regional risks, but our data gives Brownsville the edge in overall safety. |
| Austin | 95.6 | When compared to Austin, Brownsville is slightly higher risk. The difference of 1.9 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Fort Worth | 98.3 | Choosing between Brownsville and Fort Worth? Brownsville presents a lower overall risk profile. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are River Floodings in Brownsville?
With a risk score of 99.2 for River Flooding, Brownsville is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for River Flooding events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Brownsville safer than other cities in Texas?
It varies by hazard. While Brownsville has its own risk profile (Total Score: 97.4), it is among the higher-risk areas in Texas. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Brownsville given the risk of Heat Wave?
Every city has risks. The threat of Heat Wave (Score: 99.2) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Brownsville is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Brownsville compare to other cities in Texas?
See the full Texas Disaster Rankings to see how Brownsville stacks up against other cities in the state.