Moderate Risk Texas  ·  Tornado / Severe Storm

McLennan County TX

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

6/ 10
Threat Score
Population
262,132
Area
1060
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Severe Storm
FEMA Disasters
30
federally declared

McLennan County in Central Texas, home to Waco, sits at the intersection of multiple storm tracks, making it prone to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. The 2015 Hewitt tornado and frequent Brazos River flooding events highlight the dual nature of disaster risk in this county.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Identify an interior room or storm shelter.
  • Monitor NOAA weather alerts continuously.
  • Keep emergency kit accessible at all times.
  • Prepare for sudden power outages.

// Recommended Supplies

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

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 6 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Severe Storm
Secondary Hazard Flash Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone AE (Moderate Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 30
Last Major Event Tornado (May 2015 — Hewitt)
Event Frequency Major event every 5–6 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (254) 757-5050
Emergency Shelters 14 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-35 North, I-35 South, US-84 West, TX-6

// County Profile

County McLennan County TX
State Texas (TX)
Population 262,132
Area 1060 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (Moderate Risk)

// Major Cities

Waco 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.

Fort Cavazos TX
Military Installation  ·  Killeen  ·  US Army / III Corps  ·  25-mi risk zone
7/10 High
🌊
Lake Whitney Dam TX
Major Dam  ·  Whitney, TX  ·  US Army Corps of Engineers  ·  20-mi risk zone
7/10 High
🏟
McLane Stadium Waco TX
Stadium / Arena  ·  Waco, TX  ·  Baylor Bears / NCAA  ·  2-mi risk zone
6/10 Moderate

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