Extreme Heat risk in Texas

Extreme Heat in Texas: Geography, Seasons, and Exposure

Texas is a large state with diverse climates, but extreme heat is a statewide hazard. Summers are long and hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F in many areas. The most intense heat typically occurs from June through September, though heat waves can begin as early as May and last into October. The eastern part of the state, including Houston and the Gulf Coast, experiences humid heat, which can be more dangerous because sweat evaporates less efficiently. West Texas and the Panhandle have drier heat, with large day-night temperature swings. Urban areas like Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston are especially vulnerable due to the urban heat island effect, where concrete and asphalt absorb and re-radiate heat, making cities several degrees warmer than surrounding rural areas. The Rio Grande Valley and far West Texas also face prolonged periods of extreme heat. According to the CDC, extreme heat is a leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. The Texas Division of Emergency Management works with local partners to prepare for and respond to heat emergencies.

How It Affects Homes

Extreme heat can damage homes in several ways. The most common issue in Texas is foundation movement. Many Texas soils contain expansive clays that shrink when dry, causing foundations to shift and crack. This can lead to cracks in walls, sticking doors and windows, and uneven floors. Prolonged heat can also damage roofs, as asphalt shingles become brittle and warp; siding may buckle; and attics can reach extremely high temperatures, stressing HVAC systems and increasing energy bills. Power outages during heat waves can leave homes without air conditioning, creating dangerous indoor temperatures.

In terms of insurance, standard homeowners policies typically do not cover damage caused by extreme heat, as it is often considered a maintenance issue or wear and tear. However, if a fire occurs due to heat, that may be covered. Some policies may cover sudden and accidental damage to HVAC systems, but this varies. Homeowners should review their policies and consider additional coverage or home warranties for their HVAC systems. It's also wise to document your home's condition before and after heat events.

How to Prepare Your Home

• Maintain your HVAC system: schedule regular professional tune-ups, change filters monthly during heavy use, and keep outdoor units clear of debris.
• Improve insulation and sealing: add insulation to attics and walls, seal air leaks around windows, doors, and plumbing penetrations. This keeps cool air in and hot air out.
• Block solar heat: install window shades, awnings, or solar screens; consider reflective or cool roof materials.
• Landscape for shade: plant shade trees on the south and west sides of your home; use drought-tolerant plants to reduce water needs.
• Prepare for power outages: have a backup generator or battery system, and know how to use it safely. Never run a generator indoors.
• Create a cool room: designate a room that can be kept cool, even during outages, using fans, battery-powered cooling, or insulation.
• Stay informed: monitor NWS heat alerts and follow guidance from the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
• Check on others: during heat waves, check on elderly neighbors, those without air conditioning, and pets.
• Have an emergency kit: include water, non-perishable food, medications, and a battery-powered radio.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a heat advisory, heat watch, and excessive heat warning?

The National Weather Service issues these alerts to communicate heat risk. A heat advisory is issued when heat and humidity are expected to cause significant discomfort or illness, typically with heat index values above 100°F for two or more hours. An excessive heat watch means conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next 24 to 72 hours. An excessive heat warning is issued when an excessive heat event is occurring, imminent, or highly likely, with heat index values expected to reach or exceed 105°F for at least two hours. These thresholds can vary by region. Always check local NWS forecasts for your area.

How can I keep my home cool without air conditioning?

If you don't have air conditioning or want to reduce reliance on it, try these strategies: close curtains and blinds during the day to block sunlight, open windows at night to let cooler air in, use fans to circulate air (but note that fans don't cool the air; they help sweat evaporate), take cool showers, and avoid using the oven or other heat-generating appliances during the hottest part of the day. If your home becomes too hot, seek relief at a cooling center, library, or mall. Check with local authorities for cooling center locations during heat emergencies.

Does homeowners insurance cover damage from extreme heat?

Generally, standard homeowners insurance does not cover damage caused by extreme heat, such as foundation cracks from soil shrinkage, warped siding, or HVAC breakdown due to wear and tear. These are typically considered maintenance issues. However, if a fire occurs because of heat, that damage may be covered. Some policies may cover sudden and accidental damage to HVAC systems, but coverage varies. It's important to review your policy and speak with your insurance agent about what is and isn't covered. You may also consider a home warranty for appliance and system breakdowns.

Official Resources

• Texas Division of Emergency Management
• NWS Heat Safety
• Ready.gov – Extreme Heat
• CDC – Extreme Heat