Introduction to Natural Disasters in Texas
Texas has weathered more than its fair share of nature’s fury, enduring a century of hurricanes, floods, explosions and tornadoes that have left deep scars on communities across the state, according to the National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service. The state’s unique geography, with its long coastline and location in the southern United States, makes it prone to a variety of natural disasters.
Here’s a look at the most devastating events to ever strike the Lone Star State. From hurricanes and floods to explosions and tornadoes, these disasters have had a profound impact on the state and its residents.
Galveston Hurricane (1900)
On Sept. 8, 1900, a Category 4 hurricane slammed into Galveston, bringing a 15-foot storm surge and winds over 130 mph. The storm killed more than 8,000 people and caused $20 million in damage, making it the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, according to the National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service.
Four houses remain standing on Sealy Street in Galveston in this September 1900 photo, after a surprise hurricane devastated the prospering city. (AP)
Texas City Disaster (1947)
A fire aboard the SS Grandcamp triggered a massive ammonium nitrate explosion, killing at least 581 people. This remains the deadliest industrial accident in U.S. history, according to the National Hazardous Materials Fusion Center.
New London School Explosion (1937)
A natural gas leak ignited at the New London School, killing approximately 295 students and teachers. It is the deadliest school disaster in U.S. history, according to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.
The March 18, 1937, explosion at the New London school in East Texas killed an estimated 300 students, teachers and others.
San Antonio Flood (1921)
In September 1921, a tropical depression caused catastrophic flooding in San Antonio, resulting in 51 deaths in the city and over 200 in surrounding areas. The disaster led to significant changes in the city’s infrastructure, according to UTSA Libraries Special Collections and the Department of the Interior and United States Geological Survey.
Texas Winter Storm (2021)
A historic winter storm hit Texas in February 2021, leaving millions without power and facing freezing temperatures. People in North Texas woke up on Feb. 15 to no power, four inches of snow and a record low temperature of -2 degrees Fahrenheit, the coldest in 72 years, according to the National Weather Service.
Across 77 counties, 246 people died due to the storm, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Causes of death included hypothermia, carbon monoxide poisoning, car accidents and worsening of existing health problems, according to the health department.
Large electrical transmission lines are pictured in a new housing development in South Arlington, Wednesday, February 17, 2021. (Tom Fox / Staff Photographer)
San Antonio Flood (1913)
Heavy rains caused the San Antonio River to overflow, resulting in about 180 fatalities, according to The News’ archives.
Waco Tornado (1953)
A powerful tornado tore through downtown Waco, killing 114 people and injuring nearly 600, and destroying more than 600 buildings, according to the weather service.
Hurricane Rita (2005)
