texas flooding
Newsletter
Texas identifies millions at risk in first statewide flood plan
In a stark reminder of the state's vulnerability to extreme weather, Texas' latest flood plan has unveiled that approximately one in six residents lives or works in areas prone to flooding.
In short:
- Over 5 million Texans are at risk of flooding, with nearly 1.3 million homes in flood-prone areas.
- The plan recommends over $49 billion for flood mitigation, focusing heavily on the "Ike Dike" coastal barrier.
- Recommendations include establishing a flood early warning system and a technical assistance program for rural communities.
Key quote:
"When the plan is approved, it's going to be a historic moment for Texas. This will be a really critical piece in understanding the topography and where you have higher and lower elevations in order to properly plan for which parts of the state are going to be subject to the risk."
— Sarah Kirkle, director of policy and legislative affairs for the Texas Water Conservation Association
Why this matters:
The new plan highlights the pressing challenges faced by Texans as climate change exacerbates the frequency and severity of floods. With nearly 17% of the population at risk, state officials are calling for robust measures, including improved drainage systems, the construction of protective barriers, and enhanced emergency response protocols. Health experts also raise concerns about the potential public health implications. Floodwaters can carry contaminants, leading to outbreaks of waterborne diseases. The stress and displacement caused by frequent flooding can also have long-term mental health effects on affected communities.
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Flooded Texans resist government buyout offers
In Harris County, flood-prone residents are resisting buyouts despite repeated flooding, citing affordability and attachment to their homes.
In short:
- Harris County Flood Control District wants to buy properties in flood-prone areas along the San Jacinto River.
- The district has identified 2,400 properties for potential buyouts but has only purchased about 800.
- Many residents, especially lower-income individuals, worry buyouts won’t provide enough to relocate safely.
Key quote:
"It's not as though it's a guarantee of reducing risks to that family.”
— Alessandra Jerolleman, Director of Research for the Center on Environment, Land and Law at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law.
Why this matters:
Flooding in Harris County is a recurrent issue, and while buyouts can reduce future risks, they may not offer sufficient support for displaced residents. Affordability is also a central issue. Many of these residents, often living in lower-income areas, find the prospect of relocating daunting due to rising housing costs elsewhere. The compensation offered through buyouts rarely covers the full expense of securing comparable homes in safer areas. This economic imbalance leaves them with a stark choice: stay and risk future floods or move and face financial instability.
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Photo by Ian Hutchinson on Unsplash
Supreme Court flooding case could ripple across the energy sector
Texas property owners flooded by Hurricane Harvey and Tropical Storm Imelda are headed to the Supreme Court to make their pitch for why they should be allowed to sue for compensation from the state. Court watchers are closely following the case for how it could also affect the energy sector.
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