Austin Urges Residents to Prepare for Severe Weather

Officials warn of increased risk of powerful storms and flash floods due to climate change

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:36am

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a stormy, ominous sky filled with dark, swirling clouds over a flooded, desolate cityscape, conveying the overwhelming, sublime power of nature as it threatens to overwhelm the urban environment.As climate change intensifies extreme weather events, a looming storm system threatens to overwhelm the city of Austin with the growing risk of powerful storms and devastating flash floods.Austin Today

Officials in Central Texas are calling on residents to start preparing for severe weather, including spring storms that can bring lightning, hail, heavy rain, high winds, and tornadoes. The biggest threat in the area is flash flooding, and the city is recommending that people make emergency plans, build supply kits, get to know their neighbors, and stay informed through emergency alert systems.

Why it matters

As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, it's crucial for Austin residents to be proactive in preparing for potential disasters that could threaten lives and property. The city's guidance aims to empower the community to take steps to protect themselves and their neighborhoods.

The details

In a press conference, Austin city leaders said this time of year is when many of the worst weather events have happened locally. They provided specific tips on what residents should do, including registering for emergency alerts, avoiding flooded roads, securing outdoor items, turning off utilities, and building emergency kits with supplies for at least three days. The officials also warned about the dangers of moving water, noting that just 6 inches can knock over an adult and 12 inches can sweep away most vehicles.

  • Spring is when many of the worst weather events have happened in Central Texas.
  • The city held a press conference on April 13, 2026 to urge residents to start preparing now.

The players

Jim Redick

Austin Emergency Management

Jorge Morales

Austin Watershed Protection Department

Kirk Watson

Austin Mayor

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What they’re saying

“Register first, warncentraltx.org. Make sure you can get those emergency alerts on your phone. Make sure they are turned on to receive public emergency alerts.”

— Jim Redick, Austin Emergency Management

“For those who don't know, most people who die in floods die in their vehicles. You can go to the atxfloods.com website to see what roads are open or closed.”

— Jorge Morales, Austin Watershed Protection Department

“Just 6 inches of water, only 6 inches of water can knock over an adult. 12 inches of water, a foot of water, if it's running, can sweep away most vehicles. A lot of us don't think about it in that respect.”

— Kirk Watson, Austin Mayor

What’s next

The city is urging residents to take the four steps of emergency preparedness: make a plan, build a kit, know your neighbors, and stay informed. They also provided specific tips on preparing vehicles, homes, and businesses for severe weather and flooding.

The takeaway

As climate change intensifies extreme weather events, it is crucial for Austin residents to heed the city's guidance and proactively prepare for the increasing threat of powerful storms and flash floods that could endanger lives and property in the region.