San Antonio Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 2,069,843 and a calculated risk score of 97.5, San Antonio faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for San Antonio, TX. From its neighborhoods to its downtown, San Antonio is unique. But ignoring the local climate risks is not an option. Our data indicates a specific vulnerability to tornadoes.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. San Antonio sits at a Risk Score of 97.534. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Tornado and River Flooding.
Tornado risk in San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is susceptible to severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes. Weather patterns in this region can generate sudden rotational storms that give residents very little warning time compared to other hazards.
San Antonio Tornado Safety
- •Identify an interior room without windows on the lowest floor
- •Monitor NOAA weather radio during spring storm season
- •Clear yard of potential projectiles before storms arrive
Top Hazards for The San Antonio Area
For residents of Texas, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of tornado activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 99.9/100, requiring attention. For new residents, understanding the severity of tornadoes in their specific zip code is vital.
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 99.3/100. Residents in low-lying zones should have evacuation routes mapped out well in advance.
Within the specific ecosystem of Texas, lightning frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 99.0/100. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in San Antonio? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in San Antonio
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In San Antonio, severe storms can spin up quickly. You need a safe, windowless location and a way to receive alerts when the power grid fails.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Avoid low-lying areas during heavy rain events.
- 2Secure outdoor furniture that could become projectiles.
- 3Keep a whistle in your kit to signal for help if trapped.
- 4Wear a helmet (bike or construction) to protect from debris.
- 5Have a weather radio with a battery backup to receive alerts.
Essential Gear for San Antonio
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
The best insurance against Tornado is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | 100.0 | Houston and San Antonio share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Antonio the edge in overall safety. |
| Dallas | 98.7 | Choosing between San Antonio and Dallas? San Antonio presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Austin | 95.6 | Choosing between San Antonio and Austin? San Antonio presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Fort Worth | 98.3 | Fort Worth and San Antonio share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Antonio the edge in overall safety. |
| El Paso | 92.0 | El Paso and San Antonio share similar regional risks, but our data gives El Paso the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in San Antonio?
With a risk score of 99.9 for Tornado, San Antonio is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Tornado events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is San Antonio safer than other cities in Texas?
It varies by hazard. While San Antonio has its own risk profile (Total Score: 97.5), it is among the higher-risk areas in Texas. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to San Antonio given the risk of River Flooding?
Every city has risks. The threat of River Flooding (Score: 99.3) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in San Antonio is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does San Antonio compare to other cities in Texas?
See the full Texas Disaster Rankings to see how San Antonio stacks up against other cities in the state.