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Texas named one of the worst states for disaster preparedness | Let’s fix that

FILE - HOUSTON, TX - Residents recovering from storm. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) (Justin Sullivan, 2017 Getty Images)

HOUSTON – You’d think a state like Texas, which has been hard-hit by natural disasters and severe weather would be more than prepared to take on what comes its way, but a recent survey suggests otherwise.

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According to Smilehub, Texas was ranked one of the worst states when it comes to disaster preparedness. This, after researchers compared all 50 states relying on data ranging from fire and police stations per capita, and enhanced mitigation plans for disasters as well as community resilience.

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Its results showed Texas as 42nd out of 50.

The bad news doesn’t stop there though: the Lone Star State was also ranked 49th, for the number of climate dangers resulting in more than $1 billion in damage as well as mental health counselors per capita. 48th for National Guard Members per capita, and 47th for community resilience.

LEARN MORE: Disaster trauma is real, explains Houston therapist

Personally, the researchers’ results and accuracy are neither here, nor there; instead, the study should provide a sober reminder to plan for any severe weather.

KPRC 2 has always had your back, but especially lately covering the severe weather plaguing Houston and surrounding areas and how you can plan or get answers to important questions you need to know.

SEE ALSO: KPRC 2 FLOOD TRACKER: Get alerted if flooding is occurring in your immediate area

You can also get live severe weather updates with our FREE KPRC 2 app and our weather app.

Considering this survey is coming out on the heels of Hurricane Season, check out these helpful links so we can prove this survey wrong.


About the Author
Ahmed Humble headshot

Historian, educator, writer, expert on "The Simpsons," amateur photographer, essayist, film & tv reviewer and race/religious identity scholar. Joined KPRC 2 in Spring 2024 but has been featured in various online newspapers and in the Journal of South Texas' Fall 2019 issue.

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