Waco Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 197,594 and a calculated risk score of 86.3, Waco faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Waco, TX. The landscape around Waco defines much of daily life. Yet, the geography also exposes the area to certain threats. The risk of tornadoes is higher here than the national average.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Waco a Risk Score of 86.289 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Tornado and Winter Weather.
Tornado risk in Waco, Texas
Waco 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.
Waco 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 Waco Area
From a statewide perspective in Texas, seasonality plays a huge role in the intensity of tornadoes here. Consequently, our algorithm flags this as a priority area with a calculated intensity of 98.7. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
Given the environmental patterns common in Texas, the potential for winter weather in Waco stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 96.5 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Environmental studies focusing on Texas highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from heat wave events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 95.9 score. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Waco has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Waco? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Waco
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Waco, 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
- 1Secure outdoor furniture that could become projectiles.
- 2Keep a whistle in your kit to signal for help if trapped.
- 3Wear a helmet (bike or construction) to protect from debris.
- 4Have a weather radio with a battery backup to receive alerts.
- 5Identify a basement or interior room without windows as your shelter.
Essential Gear for Waco
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Tornado now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | 100.0 | When compared to Houston, Waco is statistically safer. The difference of 13.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Dallas | 98.7 | Dallas and Waco share similar regional risks, but our data gives Waco the edge in overall safety. |
| San Antonio | 97.5 | Choosing between Waco and San Antonio? Waco presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Austin | 95.6 | Austin and Waco share similar regional risks, but our data gives Waco the edge in overall safety. |
| Fort Worth | 98.3 | When compared to Fort Worth, Waco is statistically safer. The difference of 12.0 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Waco?
With a risk score of 98.7 for Tornado, Waco 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 Waco safer than other cities in Texas?
It varies by hazard. While Waco has its own risk profile (Total Score: 86.3), it is generally comparable to the average in Texas. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Waco given the risk of Winter Weather?
Every city has risks. The threat of Winter Weather (Score: 96.5) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Waco is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Waco compare to other cities in Texas?
See the full Texas Disaster Rankings to see how Waco stacks up against other cities in the state.