Texas Hill Country Floods: What Preppers Can Learn
Recent floods in the Texas Hill Country have left many families grieving and communities struggling to recover. Heavy rains caused rivers to rise quickly, flooding homes and businesses and forcing people to leave with little warning. As lawmakers gather to discuss how to improve disaster response, there is an important lesson for all preppers: being ready before disaster strikes can save your life.
The Dangers of Flash Floods
Flash floods happen fast. In the Texas Hill Country, some residents had less than 30 minutes to get out before their homes were underwater. Roads washed away, emergency crews were overwhelmed, and some people had to be rescued from rooftops. These events show how quickly a situation can turn dangerous, especially when early warning systems are lacking or fail to reach everyone.
Preppers know that waiting for help is not always an option. When disaster hits, you need to rely on your own skills and preparation.
Building Your Flood Readiness Plan
If you live in an area that could flood, now is the time to make a plan. Even if you think it won’t happen to you, remember that extreme weather is becoming more common. Here are some key steps to prepare for floods and other sudden disasters:
- Know your risk: Check if you live in a floodplain or near a river that could overflow.
- Sign up for alerts: Register for local emergency alerts and weather warnings on your phone or through a NOAA weather radio.
- Map your escape routes: Know at least two ways out of your neighborhood. Practice your evacuation plan with your family.
- Prepare a go-bag: Have a backpack ready with water, snacks, important documents, medicine, a flashlight, and extra batteries.
- Keep your vehicle fueled: Don’t let your gas tank drop below half. Floods can come quickly, and gas stations may close or be unreachable.
- Protect vital documents: Store copies of IDs, insurance papers, and titles in a waterproof bag or safe place you can grab quickly.
- Plan for pets: Include food, water, and carriers for your animals in your emergency supplies.
Learning From Local Leaders
Leaders in the Texas Hill Country told lawmakers that they need better early warning systems and more trained first responders. While the government works on improving these systems, it’s up to each of us to stay alert and take action when the weather turns dangerous.
Do not wait for an official order if you see the water rising. If you feel unsafe, evacuate early. Your life is worth more than your belongings.
Strengthening Community Preparedness
Survival isn’t just about looking after yourself—it’s also about helping your neighbors. Many people, especially the elderly or those with disabilities, may need extra help during a disaster. Organize with your community now, so you know who will need assistance and who can provide it.
- Share your plan: Talk to neighbors about your evacuation routes and emergency contacts.
- Check on others: During storms, check in with those who might need help getting out quickly.
- Pool resources: Consider sharing tools like generators, water pumps, or first aid kits.
After the Flood: Recovery and Self-Reliance
Floods can destroy homes, businesses, and roads in minutes. Recovery takes much longer. Preppers should plan for at least several days without power, clean water, or outside help. Make sure your supplies will last and that you have the knowledge to stay safe after a flood.
- Water safety: Floodwater can carry germs, chemicals, and snakes. Never drink or bathe in water that may be contaminated. Keep a supply of bottled water or water purification tablets.
- Food safety: Don’t eat food that has touched floodwater. Store canned and dried foods in waterproof containers.
- Sanitation: Plan for how you’ll handle waste if the toilets or sewage systems fail. Have heavy-duty trash bags, bleach, and gloves on hand.
- First aid: Floods can cause injuries. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit and know basic first aid skills.
Take Action Now—Don’t Wait for Help
The Texas Hill Country floods show that floods can happen quickly, and government help may not arrive in time. Preppers understand the value of self-reliance and readiness. Use these lessons to improve your own emergency plans today.
- Review and practice your family’s flood and evacuation plans regularly.
- Update your emergency supplies at least twice a year.
- Stay connected with your community and local emergency services.
- Don’t wait for a disaster to get prepared—start now!
Final Thought: Preparedness Saves Lives
Extreme weather is becoming more common, and floods can strike anywhere. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to be ready ahead of time. Learn from the Texas Hill Country floods and strengthen your own preparedness today.