The Statewide Impact of Hurricanes

On July 8, 2024, Hurricane Beryl made landfall on the Texas coast. Classified as a Category 1 hurricane, the storm generated sustained winds of 90 MPH, with gusts up to 105 MPH.  The impact of Beryl was devastating. Strong winds and heavy flooding resulted in 44 deaths, and an estimated 2.7 million households and businesses were left without power for days. Critical resources, such as hospitals, public utilities, and access to fuel for personal vehicles, lingered long after the winds calmed and floodwaters receded.

For those who live and work close to the Texas coast, hurricanes are at the forefront of risk concerns this time of year. Those who reside farther inland are not always as concerned when Gulf waters begin to churn and rotate. The impact of a hurricane can result in ensuing storms hundreds of miles from the point of landfall. Tornadoes, hail, and strong winds can occur several days after hurricane landfall and hundreds of miles from the coast. City, county, and state personnel, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs), may be deployed to the most affected coastal regions, leaving inland entities strapped for resources.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), conditions are ripe for an active hurricane season. Current predictions estimate between 13 – 19 named windstorms with winds ranging anywhere between 39 – 111 MPH. Storms of this magnitude will inevitably result in damage far inland with unpredictable paths of travel.

The State Office of Risk Management (SORM) is prepared with trained personnel to assist during these times of crisis. We encourage all our client agencies to anticipate and prepare by ensuring all Continuity of Operations Plans are reviewed and up-to-date. Additionally, consultation services are available upon request to state government agencies for plan reviews and site walkthroughs to identify potential hazards and mitigation strategies related to life safety.

In summary, 2025 is expected to be a highly active hurricane season. The impact and ramifications of these named storms can be mitigated through active preparation. These types of storms can create havoc in regions far from the Texas coast. Bottom line – we should begin preparations now, regardless of geographic locations. SORM is ready to respond and assist when these types of events occur.

Publicly available resources to state agencies can be found at the sites below for more information regarding hurricane preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation:

State Resources:

Office of the Texas Governor – Texas Hurricane Center

Health & Human Services – Texas Ready

Texas Department of Transportation – Drive Texas 

Federal Resources:

National Weather Service – Weather.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agency – Ready.gov

Additional Resources:

Mike’s Weather Page – Spaghetti Models