Hays County between Austin and San Antonio is one of Texas's fastest-growing counties and sits directly on the Balcones Escarpment, a geological boundary that concentrates flash flooding. The Edwards Plateau terrain funnels storm runoff into narrow canyon streams that can rise 20 feet in minutes, creating deadly flash flood conditions with little warning.
// 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.
- Emergency Food Supplies
- Water Filtration & Storage
- Backup Generator
- Solar Backup Power
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// Risk Intelligence
| Threat Score | 6 / 10 Moderate Risk |
| Primary Hazard | Flash Flooding |
| Secondary Hazard | Wildfire |
| FEMA Flood Zone | Zone AE (Moderate Risk) |
| Federally Declared Disasters | 28 |
| Last Major Event | Halloween Floods (2021) |
| Event Frequency | Major event every 5–6 years |
// Emergency Operations
| Emergency Mgmt Phone | (512) 393-7385 |
| Emergency Shelters | 12 designated facilities |
| Evacuation Routes | I-35 North, TX-130 East, US-290 West, Ranch Road 12 |
// County Profile
| County | Hays County TX |
| State | Texas (TX) |
| Population | 261,114 |
| Area | 678 sq miles |
| FEMA Region | Zone AE (Moderate Risk) |
// Major Cities
// Cities in This County
// Other Texas Counties
Galveston County TX
Hurricane / Storm Surge
10/10
Critical
Jefferson County TX
Hurricane / Flooding
9/10
Critical
Harris County TX
Hurricane / Flooding
9/10
Critical
Calhoun County TX
Hurricane / Storm Surge
8/10
High
Jackson County TX
Hurricane / Storm Surge
8/10
High
Matagorda County TX
Hurricane / Storm Surge
8/10
High