Analysis of Flood Fatalities in Texas

Abstract

Floods are the leading cause of fatalities connected with natural disasters in Texas. A combination of physiography and precipitation often result in extreme hydrologic conditions that cause floods in the state. This paper reviews flood-related fatalities in Texas between 1959 and 2008. Information on flood-fatality victims and the flood-causing events was obtained from the National Climatic Data Center. The data collected included the date, time, location, and weather conditions and the gender and age of the flood victims. Comparison with other states reveals that the size of the population of Texas is a major factor in the increased number of fatalities. The data also suggest that driving or walking into floodwaters may be responsible for more than 93% of flood fatalities in Texas. Although most high-fatality counties are located in the Texas “Flash Flood Alley” that includes major urban centers, normalization of fatality data shows that the flood-fatality risk is actually higher in other areas of the state. The analysis also indicates that the annual flood-fatality rates are decreasing significantly. A combination of improved hydrometeorological forecasting, educational programs aimed at enhancing public awareness of flood risk and the seriousness of flood warnings, and timely and appropriate action by local emergency and safety authorities will help further reduce flood fatalities in Texas.