In a landmark move to address escalating flood risks, Texas has introduced its inaugural State Flood Plan, revealing that more than 5 million residents—approximately one in six Texans—live or work in areas susceptible to flooding. This comprehensive plan, developed by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), aims to enhance preparedness and mitigation strategies across the state, particularly in vulnerable regions like Harris County, which experienced severe flooding this spring.
The 2024 State Flood Plan represents Texas’ first comprehensive effort to assess and address flood hazards statewide. Initiated in response to the devastating impacts of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, the plan was mandated by Senate Bill 8, passed in 2019, requiring the TWDB to develop a coordinated strategy for flood risk management.
According to the plan, approximately 2.4 million people reside or work in areas with a 1% annual chance of flooding (commonly referred to as the 100-year floodplain), while an additional 2.8 million are located within the 0.2% annual chance floodplain (500-year floodplain). Collectively, these zones encompass nearly one-fourth of Texas’ land area, underscoring the widespread nature of flood vulnerability across the state.
The plan also identifies critical infrastructure at risk, including over 6,200 facilities such as hospitals, emergency services, fire stations, police stations, and schools situated within these flood-prone areas. Additionally, more than 1.6 million buildings are located in flood hazard zones, highlighting the potential for significant property damage during flood events.
To mitigate these risks, the State Flood Plan outlines a series of strategic recommendations, including the implementation of over 4,600 flood risk reduction solutions. These encompass flood management evaluations, mitigation projects, and management strategies, with an estimated total implementation cost exceeding $54.5 billion.
A significant portion of the proposed funding—over $49 billion—is allocated for flood mitigation projects, with nearly half earmarked for the Galveston Bay Surge Protection Coastal Storm Risk Management project, commonly known as the “Ike Dike.” This ambitious initiative aims to protect the Houston region from hurricane-induced storm surges.
The plan also recommends the establishment of a statewide flood early warning system to alert residents during imminent flood events, as well as the creation of a technical assistance program to support small, rural, and disadvantaged communities in applying for grants and implementing flood mitigation projects.
The TWDB emphasizes the need for infrastructure improvements and policy changes to enhance flood resilience. Recommendations include increasing funding for low-water crossing safety, enhancing dam and levee safety programs, and creating minimum building and infrastructure standards to reduce fatalities and property damage.
Currently, only cities in Texas have the authority to collect drainage fees to fund flood mitigation projects. The plan suggests extending this authority to counties, enabling them to finance necessary infrastructure improvements in unincorporated areas.
Climate Change and Future Projections
The State Flood Plan acknowledges the increasing impact of climate change on flood risks, noting that warmer temperatures contribute to heavier rainfall and more intense hurricanes. Projections indicate that the 1% annual chance floodplain could expand by 11% by 2060, potentially affecting an additional 2.6 million people and 740,000 buildings.
To address these evolving challenges, the plan incorporates data from 15 regional flood planning groups, each focusing on specific watersheds. This collaborative approach ensures that local knowledge and expertise inform the development of targeted flood mitigation strategies.
Public Engagement and Next Steps
The TWDB adopted the 2024 State Flood Plan on August 15, 2024, and delivered it to the Texas Legislature by September 1, 2024. The plan is intended to guide state, regional, and local flood control policies and will be updated every five years to reflect new data and evolving conditions.
Public input played a crucial role in shaping the plan, with opportunities for Texans to provide feedback during public hearings and through online submissions. This inclusive process aims to ensure that the plan addresses the diverse needs and concerns of communities across the state.
As Texas confronts the growing threat of flooding, the implementation of the State Flood Plan represents a significant step toward enhancing resilience and protecting lives and property. Continued collaboration among state agencies, local governments, and residents will be essential to achieving the plan’s objectives and ensuring a safer future for all Texans.
