Dallas & Fort Worth Real Estate Blog

As the second largest state in the US, Texas is no stranger to vastness—but its weather shows an unpredictability and intensity like nowhere else. From scorching summers that crack triple-digit heat indexes to destructive storms that materialize without warning, Lone Star residents live on the weather's edge. Our exploration of Texas' weather woes will uncover the human toll, economic impact, and efforts underway to build a more sustainable future.

Texas Summers

Related: Things You Should Know When Moving To Texas

Texas summers are infamous for their extreme heat. Day after day, temperatures soar to around 100°F, accompanied by high humidity. With the relentless sun and minimal breezes, it's crucial to stay vigilant, as these conditions can take a serious toll on your well-being. So, what’s behind these sweltering summers?

Health Risks & Energy Consumption

To begin with, let’s examine the health implications. Extended exposure to such high temperatures can have dire consequences. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), each year more than 600 Americans receive medical attention for heat-related ailments. On these oppressively hot days, the risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion rises sharply. Our bodies struggle to function optimally in extreme heat for prolonged periods.

However, it's not just our health that's compromised; the energy grid also faces challenges. As temperatures rise, many people crank up their air conditioning, leading to an enormous strain on energy resources. In 2022, Texas stood out as the leading electricity consumer in the nation, using around 475 terawatt-hours of power. The total consumption was far more than any other state, with Florida and California using about 250 terawatt-hours respectively.

Electricity Consumption Comparison in Different States

Note: Data sourced from the U.S. Energy Information Administration and various reports on state electricity consumption.

Furthermore, we cannot overlook the environmental repercussions. Increased greenhouse gas emissions, which are a serious threat to the global community, are a result of the spike in energy usage.

Tourism & Local Businesses Feel the Heat

Now, let’s shift our focus to leisure activities. Unfortunately, the intense heat often discourages people from engaging in outdoor activities, which hurts local businesses and tourists. Who wants to stroll around when it feels like stepping into an oven?

Even popular destinations like water parks and beaches experience decreased attendance during extreme heat events. Local businesses consequently face financial strain. To sum up, Texas summers pose three major problems: they impact the environment, our wallets, and public health.

Unpredictable Storms

The weather in Texas is infamously erratic, leaving locals constantly wondering what each storm will bring. Just when you think you’re in for a pleasant sunny day, dark clouds can suddenly gather, and chaos ensues.

Flash Floods

Flash flooding is a serious concern in this region. A few inches of rain are enough to transform Texas roads into turbulent rivers. Because so many people become stuck in their cars while attempting to flee the rising waters each year, driving through flooded areas is a risk people take. This scenario can be quite frightening.

Tornado Alley

Moreover, have you noticed the size of the tornadoes Texas has faced recently? They are truly astonishing. Situated in the heart of Tornado Alley, Texas is prone to fierce storms. These swirling whirlwinds of nature have the terrifying ability to tear apart neighborhoods and crumble buildings. The anxiety and uncertainty accompanying a tornado warning can make anyone's heart race.

Hailstorms

Let’s not overlook the hailstorms either. Have you ever seen a vehicle that looks like it has been through a battlefield? Chances are, it has endured a Texas hailstorm. These icy projectiles have the potential to fall rapidly, smashing windows, denting cars, and damaging houses. After a significant hailstorm, insurance claims usually skyrocket.

Homeowners often get into acrimonious disputes with adjusters in an attempt to retrieve compensation. For this reason, high-risk clients are increasingly choosing to either self-insure or investigate other solutions.

Texas Winters

You might assume after enduring scorching summers and unpredictable storms, Texans would have winter all figured out. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Texas winters are akin to an unexpected guest arriving unannounced—leaving everyone unsure of what to wear.

Unprepared Infrastructure & Travel Disruptions

When winter finally makes its presence known in Texas, the state often appears completely unprepared. Even a small amount of ice or snow can turn the region into complete chaos. Roads become treacherous skating rinks, power lines snap like brittle twigs, and many find themselves shivering in the darkness. It feels like a real-life episode of "Survivor," but with less coconut and more complaints about the cold.

Furthermore, travelers should exercise caution. If you’re planning a winter getaway in Texas, be ready for anything. One moment, you could be enjoying sunny weather, and the next, you might be stuck in traffic due to a sudden ice storm. This unpredictability can be an emotional rollercoaster, testing your patience at every turn.

Frosty Challenges for Farmers

For farmers and ranchers in Texas, winter weather presents a double-edged sword. On one side, a touch of cold can benefit the soil, promoting healthy growth. Conversely, severe fluctuations in temperature can spell disaster.

Unexpected freezes can damage crops, while livestock may struggle to survive in harsh conditions. It’s a constant balancing act; one wrong move can lead to financial devastation. While Texas summers often steal the spotlight, it’s the winter surprises that truly test the resilience of its residents.

Allergies and Air Quality

If there's one thing Texas weather excels at, it's putting your sinuses to the test. With pollen clouds, dust storms, and persistent humidity, residents often find themselves in a never-ending sneezing saga.

Major Allergens and Pollutants in Texas

Note:  Information compiled from the Texas Department of State Health Services, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Allergy Season, Dust, and Pollution

In Texas, allergy season feels like a year-long marathon with no end. Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds fills the air, leading to constant sneezing, itching, and sniffles. It often feels like your body is under constant assault. Moreover, dust storms are a frequent reality in the region, serving as nature's way of delivering a dirt facial.

These storms stir up a variety of allergens and pollutants, making it difficult to breathe and enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, air quality can suffer significantly due to traffic, industrial emissions, and wildfires. A recent report highlighted that Texas is home to three cities—Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and El Paso—listed among the top 25 most polluted in the country.

Mold and Mildew

Even after allergy season winds down, the persistent humidity creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew. A stroll through any damp, dark area can trigger sneezing once more. This issue not only affects comfort but can also lead to long-term damage to homes and property.

With such intolerable allergens and poor indoor air quality, it’s no surprise that Texas often feels like the allergy capital of the world. If you’re thinking of relocating to Texas, be prepared to invest in effective allergy medication and a high-quality air purifier.

Psychological Toll

While it’s easy to joke about Texas's unpredictable weather, it genuinely takes a toll on mental health over time. The relentless cycle of weather disasters, heat waves, and allergen attacks can induce significant anxiety.

Stress and Anxiety

People are always concerned about the next hurricane, planning for winter storms, and monitoring heat advisories. This continuous state of vigilance understandably leads to heightened stress levels. Research indicates that extreme heat and severe weather can take a heavy toll on mental health.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

While the brutal summers are tough, the winters can also impact mental well-being. With shorter days and diminished sunlight, many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression influenced by seasonal changes. Often your brain feels like it’s hibernating but without the comfort of warm blankets and hot chocolate.

Environmental Consequences

As conditions become increasingly extreme each year, it’s evident the environment is bearing the brunt of these changes.

Water Scarcity

Consider the feeling of the Texas sun blazing down as you reach for a refreshing glass of water. Now, imagine if accessing water was difficult. Texas faces a critical problem with water scarcity during droughts, and the burden on available resources is becoming more noticeable. More than 15% of the state was under moderate to severe drought conditions, according to a recent assessment by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Wildfire Risk

During dry and hot conditions, the risk of wildfires escalates dramatically. The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that in recent years, over 2.8 million acres of land were affected by wildfires, leading to serious ecological and economic consequences. From the destruction of wildlife habitats to property loss, wildfires have a profound impact on our cherished Lone Star State.

Facing the Storm: Building Resilience for the Future

After exploring Texas's diverse weather challenges, one thing is clear—extreme conditions will continue to intensify with climate change. Even though they are unpredictable, the effects of storms, heat waves, droughts, and other natural events significantly impact the environment and humans. Continued efforts in emergency planning, retrofitting critical infrastructure, bolstering mental health aid, and advocating for climate-smart policy can help mitigate some of Texas's weather woes.

With that in mind, do the ridiculously expensive home prices in many of America’s popular cities frustrate you? As long as you can withstand Texas weather woes, our agents can help you find a great spot in Texas to call home. Feel free to contact us if you need more encouragement deciding whether the Lone Star State is the right move for you.

"Having lived in Texas for over fifteen years, I can honestly say that while the weather can be extreme, it's part of what makes this state so vibrant and unique. Yes, we have scorching summers and unpredictable storms, but I've learned to embrace the diversity of our climate. The sense of community here is incredible; neighbors band together during storms, and we all find ways to cope with the heat. Plus, the beauty of Texas—its landscapes, culture, and opportunities—makes it all worth it. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else!"— Sarah Thompson, Long-time Resident of Austin, Texas