High Risk Texas  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Matagorda County TX

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

8/ 10
Threat Score
Population
36,643
Area
1114
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
45
federally declared

Matagorda County on the Texas Gulf Coast between Houston and Corpus Christi is directly in the primary hurricane landfall zone. The county's Matagorda Bay coastline is highly exposed to storm surge, and its low population relative to land area means emergency response resources are stretched thin during major events.

// 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 VE (Critical Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 45
Last Major Event Hurricane Harvey (2017)
Event Frequency Major event every 4–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (979) 244-7310
Emergency Shelters 6 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes TX-35 North, TX-60 North, US-59 North

// County Profile

County Matagorda County TX
State Texas (TX)
Population 36,643
Area 1114 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone VE (Critical Risk)

// 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.

South Texas Project Nuclear Operating Company TX
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Bay City  ·  STP Nuclear Operating Company  ·  10-mi risk zone
8/10 High
Freeport TX Petrochemical Complex
Chemical Facility  ·  Freeport, TX  ·  Dow Chemical / Various  ·  10-mi risk zone
8/10 High

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