Your Guide To Staying Safe During Texas Tornado Season

Texas tornado season is here, so make sure you are prepared to weather the upcoming storms. You can lower your risk of injury by making preparations ahead of time.

How to Prepare for the 2026 Texas Tornado Season

As we enter March in Texas, we are greeted by more than Texas bluebonnets. March kicks off severe weather season in Texas. Although tornadoes can strike at any time during the year, the peak period in Texas is March through June. In a state that leads the nation in annual twisters, preparation is not just a suggestion; it is mandatory.

Define Your "Safe Zone"

Before the first watch or warning goes out, identify the safest spot in your home. If you do not have a reinforced storm cellar, look for an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. A closet, bathroom, or the space under a stairwell give you added protection.

The "Barriers" Rule: This means the more walls you have between you and the outside wall of your home, the safer you will be when a storm hits.

Mobile Home Alert: If you live in a mobile or manufactured home, your plan must include evacuating to a sturdy building nearby. Even when tied down, trailers offer little protection from a direct hit.

Build Your 72-Hour Survival Kit

We often forget about what we will need “post” storm. I make sure that I am wearing shoes and that I have my laptop and purse with me wherever I am seeking shelter. Post-storm reality often includes power outages and blocked roads, so make sure you have items with you for a worst case scenario.

Essentials: One gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit.

Communication: A NOAA Weather Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank) is vital, as cell towers may fail.

Protection: Keep sturdy shoes and helmets (even bicycle helmets) in your safe room. Head injuries from flying debris are the leading cause of death during tornadoes.

Master the "Watch vs. Warning"

Understanding the terminology can save your life:

Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable. Stay alert, keep your phone charged, and monitor the sky.

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. Seek shelter immediately.

Secure Your Perimeter

As we head into mid-March, take time to "wind-proof" your property. Secure outdoor furniture, trampolines, and grills that can become airborne projectiles. Additionally, trim any dead tree limbs that could threaten your roof during high-wind events.

72-Hour “Go-Bag” Checklist

Based on the 2026 Red Cross and Texas DPS guidelines, here is a comprehensive 72-Hour "Go-Bag" Checklist for a Texas tornado emergency. These items also work for hurricanes and severe weather in general. Store these items in a rugged, easy-to-carry backpack or a plastic bin located inside your designated "Safe Room" (the interior closet or bathroom you identified earlier).

The "Big Three" Essentials

Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days (for drinking and sanitation).

Food: A three-day supply of non-perishable, high-calorie food (protein bars, canned meats, dried fruit). Don't forget a manual can opener.

Light & Info: A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio and a high-lumen LED flashlight with extra batteries.

Safety & Physical Protection

Helmets: Bicycle, skateboard, or batting helmets for every family member. Head injuries from flying debris are the #1 cause of tornado fatalities.

Sturdy Shoes: Keep a pair of old sneakers or work boots in the bag. You do not want to walk through storm debris or broken glass in flip-flops or socks.

Work Gloves: One pair of heavy-duty leather gloves for clearing debris.

Whistle: To signal for help if you are trapped or emergency responders are nearby.

Medical & Personal Care

First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, aspirin, and tweezers.

Medications: A 7-day supply of critical prescriptions and a copy of your dosages.

Hygiene: Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

Blanket: One emergency Mylar "space blanket" or a small fleece blanket to protect against shock or cold.

Documents & Communication

The "Document Sleeve": A waterproof bag containing copies of your ID, insurance policies, and a printed list of emergency contacts (since phone batteries die).

Power Bank: A fully charged external battery and charging cables for your mobile devices.

Cash: Small bills ($1s, $5s, and $10s). If the power is out, credit card machines at gas stations or grocery stores won't work.

The "Comfort" Add-ons

For Kids: A small toy, deck of cards, or a "comfort item" (like a stuffed animal) to reduce stress during the storm. Also have something that does not require an internet signal or electricity.

For Pets: A leash, small bag of food, and a copy of vaccination records. A pet crate is great for helping pets feel more secure.