- Texas Leads U.S. in Flood Deaths, Flash Flood Alley Under Scrutiny
- Flash Flood Alley includes Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio
- Study finds most deaths were preventable and male-related
By Grateful Ogunjebe
Texas has topped the list of U.S. states with the highest number of flood-related deaths over a 61-year span, according to researchers at the University of Texas-San Antonio.
The report links most of these fatalities to the region known as Flash Flood Alley, which includes Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. This zone is notorious for severe and sudden floods.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that between 1959 and 2019, Texas recorded 1,069 flood deaths. It was the only state to report at least one fatality almost every year, except during the 2011 drought.
Flash floods were responsible for the majority of these deaths. The area’s unique geography along the Balcones Escarpment makes it vulnerable to intense rainfall and runoff.
Many of the fatalities occurred during storms when people attempted to drive or walk through floodwaters. Vehicle-related incidents made up 42% of the deaths in some years.
The study also revealed that 86% of flood deaths could have been prevented. Authorities continue to stress: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
Men accounted for 62% of the fatalities. Experts say this is due to risk-taking behaviours such as driving through floods or working as first responders.
Young people under 29 and adults over 50 were the most affected. Researchers believe youth take more risks, while the elderly may struggle to escape.
Counties with the highest fatalities include Harris, Bexar, Dallas, and Travis all located within Flash Flood Alley. Each reported over 50 deaths.
Floods are the second leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S., after heatwaves. On average, floods kill hundreds and cost billions annually.
In 2023, Texas launched its first State Flood Plan. It warned that more than five million residents live or work in high-risk flood zones.
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