Houston Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 6,046,392 and a calculated risk score of 100.0, Houston faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Houston, TX. Houston is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that hurricanes rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 99.955, Houston requires specific preparation. The data highlights Hurricane as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Hurricane risk in Houston, Texas
Being situated in a region vulnerable to tropical cyclones, Houston faces threats from high winds and storm surge. Historical data shows significant impacts from major storms, requiring robust flood insurance and evacuation planning.
Houston Hurricane Prep Checklist
- •Know your specific evacuation zone and local routes
- •Install storm shutters or measure/cut plywood in advance
- •Stock at least 7 days of water and non-perishable food
Top Hazards for The Houston Area
Given the environmental patterns common in Texas, the potential for hurricanes in Houston stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 100.0 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. For those near water, having a 'go-bag' ready for rapid evacuation is non-negotiable.
Meteorological data for Texas confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating tornadoes. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 100.0. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Observing the seasonal cycles typical of Texas, river flooding constitute a major variable in the local quality of life equations. Moreover weighted against regional averages, this score of 100.0 is statistically significant. Homeowners should verify if their property requires a specialized flood policy annex.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Houston? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Houston
Read the Full Guide →For Houston, water protection is key. The combination of high winds and potential storm surge requires a multi-layered approach. You need to be ready to shelter in place for 72 hours or evacuate at a moment's notice.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Elevate critical documents and electronics off the floor.
- 2Have a 'Go-Bag' ready in case evacuation orders are issued.
- 3Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days.
- 4Identify your evacuation zone and map out two different routes.
- 5Install storm shutters or have pre-cut plywood ready for windows.
Essential Gear for Houston
Water
Scepter 5 Gallon Water Container
Bombproof water storage. 5 gallons is the minimum for one person for 5 days.
Power
Jackery Explorer 300
Keep phones and laptops charged during multi-day outages.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Do not wait for a Hurricane warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas | 98.7 | When compared to Dallas, Houston is slightly higher risk. The difference of 1.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Antonio | 97.5 | San Antonio and Houston share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Antonio the edge in overall safety. |
| Austin | 95.6 | When compared to Austin, Houston is slightly higher risk. The difference of 4.4 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Fort Worth | 98.3 | Choosing between Houston and Fort Worth? Houston presents a unique set of challenges. |
| El Paso | 92.0 | Choosing between Houston and El Paso? Houston presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Hurricanes in Houston?
With a risk score of 100.0 for Hurricane, Houston is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Hurricane events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Houston safer than other cities in Texas?
It varies by hazard. While Houston has its own risk profile (Total Score: 100.0), it is among the higher-risk areas in Texas. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Houston given the risk of Tornado?
Every city has risks. The threat of Tornado (Score: 100.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Houston is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Houston compare to other cities in Texas?
See the full Texas Disaster Rankings to see how Houston stacks up against other cities in the state.