High Risk Texas  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Cameron County TX

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

8/ 10
Threat Score
Population
423,163
Area
905
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
50
federally declared

Cameron County at the southern tip of Texas is highly exposed to Gulf hurricanes and tropical storms. The county includes South Padre Island, a barrier island extremely vulnerable to storm surge. Its southern location means storms from the western Gulf approach with less warning time than areas farther north.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 8 / 10    High Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Storm Surge
Secondary Hazard Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone AE (High Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 50
Last Major Event Hurricane Dolly (2008)
Event Frequency Major event every 4–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (956) 547-7000
Emergency Shelters 17 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes US-77 North, US-83 North, TX-100 West

// County Profile

County Cameron County TX
State Texas (TX)
Population 423,163
Area 905 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (High Risk)

// Major Cities

Brownsville TX

// Cities in This County

// Other Texas Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

🏥
Valley Baptist Medical Center Harlingen TX
Major Hospital  ·  Harlingen, TX  ·  Valley Baptist Health System  ·  25-mi risk zone
7/10 High

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.