HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-26-26-7.4 - Resolution - 03/26/2026RESOLUTION NO. 03-26-26-7.4
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLLEGE STATION,
TEXAS, ADOPTING AND APPROVING THE COLLEGE STATION PORTION OF
"MITIGATING RISK: PROTECTING BRAZOS COUNTY FROM ALL HAZARDS,
2024-2029 PLAN" (PLAN).
WHEREAS, certain areas of College Station are subject to periodic flooding and other natural
hazards with the potential to cause damage to people and properties within the area; and
WHEREAS, under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, the United States Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) requires that local jurisdictions have in place a FEMA-approved
Hazard Mitigation Action Plan as a condition of receipt of certain future Federal mitigation
funding after November 1, 2004; and
WHEREAS, the Plan, a five-year blueprint for the future, aimed at making communities in
Brazos County disaster resistant by reducing or eliminating the long-term risk of loss of life
and property from the full range of natural disasters; and
WHEREAS, the Plan meets the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (PL.
106390); Section 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 201.6 and Part 206; and State of
Texas Division of Emergency Management standards; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLLEGE
STATION, TEXAS:
PART 1:
PART 2:
That the City Council hereby adopts and approves those portions of the Plan
titled, Mitigating Risk: Protecting Brazos County from All Hazards, 2024-2029,
that pertain to the City of College Station attached as Exhibit A.
That the City Council hereby approves and authorizes Lauren McGrath,
Emergency Management Coordinator with responsibility, authority, and the
means to:
a. Inform all concerned parties of this action; and
b. Develop an addendum to the Plan if College Station's unique
situation warrants such an addendum; and
PART 3: That the City Council hereby appoints the Emergency Management Coordinator
to ensure the Plan is reviewed at least annually and that amendments to the City
of College Station addendum to the Plan be developed and presented to the City
Council for consideration and approval; and
Resolution No. 03-26-26-7.4
Page 2 of 3
PART 4: That this Resolution shall take effect immediately from and after its passage.
ADOPTED this 26th day of March, 2026.
City Secretary
APPROVED:
0911"
City Attorney
APP% ()VF-94�
Mayor
Resolution No. 03-26-26-7.4 Page 3 of 3
Exhibit A
Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan
2024-2029
•
is
azos County Hazard
itigation Action Plan
2024-2029
"Maintaining a secure and sustainable future through the revision
and development of targeted hazard mitigation actions to protect life,
property, and the environment."
**Credit for Photos Used on Cover
Bluebonnets. Photo from Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History. 2024.
Jackrabbit Lane, Wixon Valley, TX. John Prell, Creekview Realty. 2024.
Notice - Change to Hazard Mitigation Action Plan
This document and its contents have been prepared and are intended solely as information for
Brazos County, Texas, and its participating entities and use in relation to the Brazos County
Hazard Mitigation Action Plan Update
Document History of Change
Document Title: Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan Update
Revision #
Purpose Primary Author(s) Email Date of
(Description) of Change Change
iii
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ..iv
List of Tables x
List of Figures xiii
Acronym Definitions ...xv
Executive Summary 18
Vision and Goals .19
Section 1- Introduction
Introduction .21
Scope 21
Purpose 22
Authority 22
Mitigation Actions ...22
Section 2 — County Profile
Overview .25
County Profile .25
Population and Demographics 26
Persistent Poverty 30
Critical Facilities and Infrastructure 30
Land Use and Development 32
Section References 34
Section 3 - The Planning Process
Plan Preparation and Development 36
Planning Team ..37
Mitigation Review and Development 37
Review and Incorporation of Existing Plans 38
Plan Incorporation 39
Other Planning Mechanisms 39
Plan Review and Maintenance 41
Timeline for Implementation 41
Public and Stake Holder Involvement 42
iv
Section References 46
Section 4 — Capabilities Assessment
Description .48
Hazard Mitigation Baseline Capabilities 48
Planning and Regulatory Capabilities 50
Section References ..55
Section 5 — Risk Overview
Hazard Identification 57
Climate Vulnerability 58
Climate Change and Natural Hazards 59
Climate Change and Infectious Diseases .59
Hazard Analysis 60
Risk Index Definitions .60
Section References 65
Section 6 - Flood
Hazard Description 67
Hazardous Areas 68
Previous Occurrences 78
Future Probability 79
Climate Change 79
Infectious Disease and Risk 80
Potential Damages and Loss 88
Extent 89
Assessment of Impacts 92
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) ..95
Section References 97
Section 7 — Drought
Hazard Description 98
Palmer Drought Index 98
Hazardous
Areas .100
Previous Occurrences 100
v
Future Probability ..100
Climate Change 101
Infectious Disease and Risk 103
Potential Damages and Losses 105
Extent .106
Assessment of Impacts 106
Section References 109
Section 8 — Wildland Fire
Hazard Description 111
Hazardous Areas 111
Previous Occurrences 113
Future Probability 114
Keetch-Byram Index 114
Climate Change 116
Potential Damages and Losses 116
Extent 117
Assessment of Impacts 120
Section References 122
Section 9 — Severe Winter Weather
Hazard Description 124
Hazardous Areas 125
Previous Occurrences 127
Future Probability ..128
Climate Change 130
Potential Damages and Losses 130
Extent .131
Assessment of Impacts 132
Section References .134
Section 10 — Tornado
Hazard Description 136
Hazardous Areas 136
Fujita Tornado Scale 137
vi
Previous Occurrences 139
Future Probability 140
Climate Change 140
Potential Damages and Losses 140
Extent .142
Assessment of Impacts 142
Section References 145
Section 11— Hail
Hazard Description 147
Hazardous Areas 147
Previous Occurrences 149
Future Probability ..149
Climate Change 149
Potential Damages and Losses 150
Extent .150
Assessment of Impacts 151
Section References 153
Section 12 — Thunderstorm and Wind
Hazard Description 155
Hazardous Areas 155
Beaufort Wind Scale ..155
Previous Occurrences 157
Future Probability 158
Climate Change .158
Potential Damages and Losses 160
Extent 160
Assessment of Impacts 161
Section References 163
Section 13 — Dam Failure
Hazard Description 165
Hazardous Areas 166
Dam Classification System 167
vii
Previous Occurrences 169
Future Probability ..170
Climate Change 170
Potential Damages and Losses 170
Extent .171
Assessment of Impacts 179
Section References .181
Section 14 — Excessive and Extreme Heat
Hazard Description 183
Hazardous Areas 183
Previous Occurrences 185
Future Probability ..185
Climate Change 187
Potential Damages and Losses 187
Extent 188
Assessment of Impacts 190
Section References 192
Section 15 — Infectious Diseases
Hazard Description 194
Explanation of Diseases 195
Hazardous Areas 213
Extent 1 213
Previous Occurrences 214
Future Probability ..216
Infectious Disease and Climate Change 216
Potential Damages and Losses 216
Extent 2 218
Assessment of Impacts 220
Section References 221
Section 16 — Mitigation Actions
Flood 223
Drought 225
viii
Wildland Fires 226
Severe Winter Weather 227
Tornadoes 228
Hail 229
Thunderstorms and Wind 230
Dam Failure 231
Extreme or Excessive Heat 232
Infectious Disease 233
Section 17 — Plan Management
Monitoring and Evaluation 235
Disaster Declarations 235
Plan Amendments 235
Hazard Mitigation Action Plan Review 236
Continued Public Involvement 236
Appendices
Appendix A — Planning Team 239
Appendix B — Critical Infrastructure ..241
Appendix C — Public Survey Questions and Results .248
Appendix D — Community Meeting Documents 257
Appendix E — Partners in Outreach Meeting Documents 260
Appendix F — Capability Assessment 263
Texas A & M University 263
City of Bryan 264
City of College Station 268
City of Wixon Valley 272
City of Kurten 274
Brazos County 276
Appendix G — Previous Mitigation Actions (2019-2024) 279
Appendix H — Adoption of Hazard Mitigation Action Plan 284
ix
List of Tables
Section 1
No tables in this section.
Section 2
2.1 - Disaster Declaration by Year 26
2.2 — TAMU and Blinn College Enrollment 27
2.3 — Social Vulnerability Index 29
2.4 — Poverty in Brazos County 30
2.5 — Persistent Poverty County Percentages 30
2.6 - Critical Infrastructure and Lifelines .30
2.7 — Critical Infrastructure by Type 31
2.8 — Agricultural Land Use in Brazos County 32
Section 3
3.1 — Types of Planning Mechanisms and Examples of Methods for Incorporating the Plan 40
Section 4
4.1 — Baseline Capabilities 49
Section 5
5.1 — Priority Risk Index 61
5.2 — Priority Risk Planning Index 62
Section 6
6.1 - Flooding Incidents in Brazos County .79
6.2 — Probability of 100-Year Flood Cost 89
6.3 — 100 Year Riverine Flood Cost .89
6.4 —Flood Zone Designator 91
6.5 — NFIP Participation in Planning Area 97
Section 7
7.1 — Keetch -Byram Drought Index 100
7.2 — Drought Classification ..100
7.3 — Drought Classification Descriptions .100
7.4 — Drought Incidents within Planning Area 102
x
7.5 — Percentage of Texas under Drought Conditions 102
7.6 — Classification Definitions 107
Section 8
8.1 - Sample of Previous Wildland Fires 115
8.2 - Keetch -Byram Drought Index 116
8.3 — Critical Infrastructure within the Planning Area 118
8.4 —Annualized Expected Property Loss 118
Section 9
9.1 - Winter Storm Descriptions 126
9.2 - Magnitude of Severe Winter Storms 127
9.3- Wind Chill Factor Chart 127
9.4- Severe Winter Weather
Events 120
Section 10
10.1 - Enhanced Fujita Scale ..139
10.2 - Enhanced Fujita Scale Damage Indicators ..139
10.3 - Tornadic Activity with Damage Assessments 131
10.4 - Annualized Expected Loss to Property 140
10.5- Beaufort Wind Scale 143
Section 11
11.1 — Hail Intensity and Magnitude Scale 149
Section 12
12.1 - Beaufort Wind Scale 157
12.2 — Thunderstorm and Wind Incidents in Brazos County .159
12.3 — Thunderstorm Criteria Scale 162
Section 13
13.1 - Dam Exemption/Non-Exemption Status in Brazos County 168
13.2 - Classification of Dams 169
13.3 - High Hazard Dams in Brazos County 172
13.4 - Bryan Texas Utilities Lake Dam Information 174
13.5 - Carter Creek Dam Information .175
13.6- Mid -Town Park Lake Dam Information ..175
xi
13.7- CSISD at Anderson Street Detention Structure #3 Dam Information ..176
13.8- Finfeather Lake Dam Information 177
13.9- Lake Arapaho Dam Information 177
13.10- Leisure Lake Dam Information ..178
13.11- Nantucket Lake Dam Information 178
13.12- Oakland Lake Dam Information 179
13.13- TAMU Detention #8 Dam Information ..179
13.14- Thousand Oaks Dam #11 Information 180
Section 14
14.1 — Humidity and Temperature Likelihood of Heat Disorders .185
14.2 — Heat Index 185
14.3 — Heat Index/Temperature and Heat Disorders 186
14.4 — Historical Deaths Related to Heat 186
Section 15
15.1 — Top Ten Infectious Diseases 196
15.2 — Cases and Rates per Disease 216
xii
List of Figures
Section 1
No figures in this section.
Section 2
2.1 — Population Growth in Brazos County 27
2.2 — Projected Population Growth 28
2.3 — Household Income Distribution in Brazos County .29
2.4 — Median Household Income by Race 29
Section 3
3.1 — The Mitigation Planning Process 36
Section 4
4.1 - The Five Phases of Emergency Management .49
Section 5
5.1 — Common Risk Factors of Populations Vulnerable to Climate Change 58
Section 6
6.1 — Flooding Potential for Planning Area 69
6.2 — Brazos County 1% Flood Zones to include the cities of Bryan, College Station and TAMU .70
6.3 — Brazos County 1% Flood Zones to include the cities of Kurten and Wixon Valley.. 71
6.4 — Brazos County 1% Flood Zones to include College Station 72
6.5- Brazos County 1% Flood Zones Sothern Brazos County 73
6.6- Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones to include the cities of Bryan, College Station and TAMU .74
6.7 — Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones to include the cities of Kurten and Wixon Valley 75
6.8- Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones to include College Station .76
6.9- Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones Sothern Brazos County .77
6.10 — Incubation Periods for Waterborne, Respiratory, Rodent, and Vector borne Illnesses 88
6.11 — Extent for current and future flooding events in Brazos County 92
6.12- FEMA Region 6 Flood Depth Map 93
Section 7
7.1 — Drought Map within Planning Area 101
Section 8
8.1- Observed Fire Danger within Planning Area .113
8.2 - Historical Wildfire Data Map 114
8.3- Sample Keetch-Byram Drought Index in Planning Area 116
8.4- North Brazos County Burn Probability 119
8.5- Central Brazos County Burn Probability 120
8.6- South Brazos County Burn Probability .121
Section 9
9.1- Historic Severe Winter Weather 128
9.2 - El Nino Weather Patterns 130
9.3 - La Nina Weather Patterns 131
Section 10
10.1 — Wind Zone Designations in the US 138
Section 11
11.1 — Distribution of Storm Incidents in Brazos County 150
Section 12
No figures in this section.
Section 13
No figures in the section.
Section 14
14.1 — Historical Average Temperatures 188
14.2 — Global Surface Temperature Anomolies .190
Section 15
15.1 — Outpatient Respiratory Illness Activity Map (Reported) 203
15.2 — Laboratory Rabies (All Species in Texas) 212
15.3 — Case Fatality Rate for Severity 215
15.4 — Warning Levels for Pandemic(s) 215
15.5 — Covid 19 — Cost by State .218
15.6 — Secondary Impacts of the COVID 19 Pandemic in the US 219
15.7 — Major External Factors 220
xiv
Section 16
No figures in this section.
Section 17
No figures in this section.
xv
Acronym
ACS
ASDSO
AVHRR
BC
BCHD
BTU
oC
CDC
CFR
cfs
CIP
COB
COOS
CRS
CSID
DFIRM
DMA
EF
F
of
FEMA
FIRM
FMA
FOIA
FT
GIS
HMAP
HMGP
ISD
K
KBDI
KM
M
MPH
N/A
NCEI
NDMC
NEXRAD
NFIA
NFIP
NHS
NIH
NOAA
Acronym Definitions
Meaning
American Community Survey (5-year, Census Bureau)
Association of State Dam Safety Officials
Advanced Very High -Resolution Radiometer
Brazos County
Brazos County Health District
Bryan Texas Utilities
Degrees of Celsius
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Unites Stated Code of Federal Regulations
Cubic Feet per Second
Capital Improvement Plan
City of Bryan
City of College Station
Community Rating System (NFIP)
Central Station Identification Number
Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
Enhanced Fujita [Scale]
Fujita Storm Category Scale (replaced by EF scale in 2007)
Degrees of Fahrenheit
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Flood Insurance Rate Map
Flood Mitigation Assistance
Freedom of Information Act of 1966
Full Time
Geographic Information Systems
Hazard Mitigation Action Plan
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
Independent School District
Kurten
Keetch-Byram Drought Index
Kilometers
Meters
Miles per Hour
Not Applicable
National Center for Environmental Information
National Drought Mitigation Center
Next Generation Weather Radar
National Flood Insurance Act of 1968
National Flood Insurance Program
National Health Institute
National Institute of Health
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
xvi
NWS
PRI
PT
RL
RV
SBA
SCS
SFHA
SFR
STAPLE +
(E)
STP
SRL
TAMU
TCEQ
TDEM
TWDB
UPRR
US
USACE
USD
USDA
USGS
VFD
VOAD
WHO
WS
WV
National Weather Service
Priority Risk Index
Part Time
Repetitive Loss
Recreational Vehicle
Small Business Administration
Security Communication Systems
Special Flood Hazard Area
Single Family Home — Residential
Social, Technical, Administrative, Political, Legal, and Economic/Environmental
Standard Training Protocol
Severe Repetitive Loss Grant Program (FEMA)
Texas A&M University
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Texas Division of Emergency Management
Texas Water Development Board
Union Pacific Railroad
United States
United States Army Corps of Engineers
United States Dollar
United States Department of Agriculture
United States Geologic Survey
Volunteer Fire Department
Voluntary Organization(s) Active in Disasters
World Health Organization
Watershed
Wixon Valley
xvii
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18
Executive Summary
Purpose and Process of Development
This updated document, "Mitigating Risk: Protecting Brazos County from All Hazards, 2024 —
2029," was prepared by the participating entities within Brazos County. The participating entities
in the planning area of the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Plan include Brazos County, the
Cities of Bryan, College Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley and Texas A&M University. These will
be referred to as "Brazos County and participating entities", "participating entities" or the
"planning area".
This plan is a five-year blueprint for the future, aimed at making communities in Brazos County,
to include all the planning area; disaster resistant by reducing or eliminating the long-term risk of
loss of life and property from the range of natural disasters. It meets the requirements of the
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (P.L. 106-390); Section 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations,
Part 201.6, and Part 206; and State of Texas Division of Emergency Management standards. An
open public process was established to provide multiple opportunities for all sectors in Brazos
County and participating entities to be involved in the planning process and provide input during
its drafting stage.
Hazards Facing the Planning Area
The plan identifies and assesses the potential impact of ten natural hazards that threaten Brazos
County and participating entities. Hazards were identified based on a review of historical
records, national data sources, existing plans and reports, and discussions with local, regional,
and national experts. The list of hazards that may threaten Brazos County and the participating
entities are:
Hazards For Planning Area
Floods
Drought
Wildland Fires
Severe Winter Storms
Tornadoes
Hail
Thunderstorms and Wind
Dam Failures
Excessive and Extreme Heat
Infectious Diseases
19
Vision and Goals
Vision
The mitigation vision for Brazos County is to maintain a secure and sustainable future through
the revision and development of targeted hazard mitigation actions and the protection of lives,
property, animals, and the environment; by building sustainable and resilient communities and
reducing or eliminating the long-term risk of loss of life or property from natural and man-made
disasters through the following actions:
• Intergovernmental coordination and cooperation on mutual issues of concern related to
hazard mitigation and disaster preparedness.
• The local governance and regional entities are capable of securing resources for
investments from local, state, federal, and private sources for planning and project
implementation for hazard mitigation.
• Having informed citizenry aware of the risks they may face and the measures that can be
taken to protect their families, homes, workplaces, communities, and livelihoods from the
impacts of disasters.
• Having a commitment to retrofitting existing structures and property as well as
supporting future construction of structures that can withstand the hazards that threaten
them.
• The integration of mitigation into routine budgetary decisions and planning for future
growth and development in the planning areas, making disaster resistance an integral part
of the livability and sustainability of Brazos County.
Goals
Goal 1: Increase awareness throughout the community about potential natural and man-made
hazards and the need for community preparedness.
Goal 2: Increase coordination and cooperation among government entities, business leaders, and
the community to ensure hazard mitigation is integrated with land use plans and promote
resource -sharing to increase capabilities.
Goal 3: Mitigate damage and losses of new and existing real property.
Goal 4: Strengthen critical facilities, infrastructures, utilities, and services from hazard impacts
to establish redundancy and reliability, and to prevent or minimize loss, and facilitate quicker
recovery.
Goal 5: Improve and coordinate data collection efforts in the County to fully maximize the
extent of the efforts; and improve the mitigation capabilities of the County participating entities.
20
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21
Section 1— Introduction
Introduction
Hazard Mitigation /' hoz and , mrt i' gei fan /
Noun
Any sustained actions taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from
hazards and their effects.
Brazos County is located in between the Navasota and Brazos rivers in southeast central Texas,
is bounded on the northwest by Robertson County, on the east by Madison and Grimes counties,
on the south by Washington County, and on the southwest by Burleson County. The county seat
is the City of Bryan.
Texas is prone to extremely heavy rains and flooding with half of the world record rainfall rates
(48 hours or less). While flooding is a well-known risk, Brazos County is susceptible to a wide
range of natural hazards, including but not limited to drought, extreme heat, hail, and winter
storms. These life -threatening hazards can destroy property, disrupt the economy, and lower the
overall quality of life for individuals.
While it is impossible to prevent an incident from occurring, the effect of many hazards to people
and property can be lessened. This concept is known as hazard mitigation, which is defined by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as sustained actions taken to reduce or
eliminate long-term risk to people and property from hazards and their effects. Communities
participate in hazard mitigation by developing hazard mitigation plans. The Texas Division of
Emergency Management (TDEM) is required to review the plan and FEMA has the authority to
review and approve hazard mitigation plans through the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.
This plan, hereinafter titled: "Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan 2024" was
developed specifically for Brazos County and is a multi jurisdictional plan. The participating
entities include Brazos County; the Cities of Bryan, College Station, Kurten, and Wixon Valley;
and Texas A&M University. These entities provided valuable input into the planning process.
Hazard mitigation activities are an investment in a community's safety and sustainability. It is
widely accepted that the most effective hazard mitigation measures are implemented at the local
government level, where decisions on the regulation and control of development are ultimately
made. A comprehensive review of a hazard mitigation plan addresses hazard vulnerability that
exists today and in the foreseeable future. Therefore, it is essential that a plan identify projected
patterns of how future development will increase or decrease a community's overall hazard
vulnerability.
Scope
The focus of the plan is to identify activities to mitigate hazards classified as "high" or
"moderate" risk, as determined through a detailed hazard risk assessment conducted for Brazos
County and the participating entities. The hazard classification enables the participating entities
22
to prioritize mitigation actions based on hazards which can present the greatest risk to lives and
property in the geographic scope.
Purpose
The plan was prepared by Brazos County and the participating entities. The purpose of the plan
is to protect people, animals, structures, and the environment and to minimize the costs of
disaster response and recovery. The overall arching goal of the plan is to minimize or eliminate
long-term risks to human life and property from known hazards by identifying and implementing
cost-effective hazard mitigation actions. The planning process is an opportunity for participating
entities within Brazos County, stakeholders, and the public to evaluate and develop successful
hazard mitigation actions to reduce future risk of loss of life and damage to property resulting
from a disaster within the Brazos County planning area.
Mission Statement
The Mission Statement of the plan is, "Maintaining a secure and sustainable future through the
revision and development of targeted hazard mitigation actions to protect life, property, and the
environment."
Authority
FEMA
The plan is tailored specifically for participating entities within
Brazos County and plan participants including Planning Team
members, stakeholders, and the public who participated in the
plan development process.
The plan complies with all requirements promulgated by the Texas Division of Emergency
Management (TDEM) and all applicable provisions of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and
Emergency Assistance Act, Section 104 of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000)
(P.L. 106-390), and the Bunning-Bereuter-Blumenauer Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2004
(P.L. 108-264), which amended the National Flood Insurance Act (NFIA) of 1968 (42 U.S.C.
4001, et al).
Additionally, the Plan complies with the Interim Final Rules for the Hazard Mitigation Planning
and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (44 CFR, Part 201), which specify the criteria for approval
of mitigation plans required in Section 322 of the DMA 2000 and standards found in FEMA's
"Local Mitigation Plan Review Guide" (October 2011), and the "Local Mitigation Planning
Handbook" (May 2023).
Additionally, the plan is developed in accordance with FEMA's Community Rating System
(CRS) Floodplain Management Plan standards and policies.
Mitigation Actions
Mitigation actions taken by Brazos County are to build sustainable communities with fewer
losses, quicker recoveries, to minimize the disruptions to the communities following a disaster,
to streamline disaster recovery by identifying actions that need to be taken before a disaster
23
strikes, identifying hazards to reduce or eliminate future damages, and to serve as a basis for
future funding that may become available through grants and other programs offered by state and
federal governments or through private donations.
Based on input such as historical data, public perception, and technical requirements, the
following hazards have been identified, by priority:
1. Flooding
2. Thunderstorms and Wind
3. Drought
4. Wildland Fire
5. Dam Failure (except Wixon Valley and Kurten)
6. Hail
7. Extreme Heat
8. Severe Winter Storm
9. Tornado
10. Infectious Diseases
24
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25
Section 2 — County Profile
Overview
Brazos County has been the site of human
habitation for more than 12,000 years.
Evidence of Paleo-Indian inhabitants in the area
has turned up in the form of spearpoints, and
the remains of a butchered mammoth have been
found at the Duewall-Newberry Site on the
Brazos River. The territory that is now Brazos
County was included in Stephen F. Austin's
second colony and became part of Washington
Municipality under the Mexican government'.
During the twentieth century, Bryan and
College Station played an increasingly
important role in the life of the county. After its
founding as a railroad town in 1866, Bryan
slowly grew to a community of 3,589 in 1900,
when approximately one -fifth of county
residents lived there. The nearby community of
College Station grew around Texas A&M
University after its founding in the 1870s'.
The urban population continued to grow into
the rural population. In 1980 the 81,506
inhabitants of Bryan -College Station were 87
percent of the residents of Brazos County.
Significant industries that developed in the two -
city area in the late twentieth century included defense electronics and varied manufacturing'.
In 1982, 67 percent of the land was in farms and ranches, with 18 percent of the farmland under
cultivation and 20 percent irrigated. Primary crops were hay, cotton, sorghum, oats, and wheat,
and primary livestock and products were cattle, hogs, and milk. The industries with the most
employment were agribusiness, oil and gas extraction, and construction. In 1980 Brazos County
was one of the most densely populated counties in the state'.
In the early twenty-first century, Texas A&M University played a key role in the area's economy,
and other local companies produced high-tech equipment and services, wine, and other goods;
agribusiness was also important. In 2002 the county had 1,350 farms and ranches covering
308,814 acres, 51 percent of which were devoted to pasture, 38 percent to crops, and 9 percent to
woodlands2.
26
BRAZOS COUNTY, TX
Today the Brazos County planning area covers an area of
586 square miles with a range of 200 to 350 feet above sea
level. The following four incorporated cities are identified
for planning purposes:
• Bryan
• College Station
• Kurten
• Wixon Valley
College Station and Bryan are the largest cities in the
planning area with respective populations of 126,667 and
86,314, based on the US Census for 2022. Primary
industries in the planning area include higher education,
defense electronics, research, medical, agriculture, and
manufacturing2.
Since 1965, there have been ten (13) Presidential Disaster Declarations
and eight (8) Small
Business Administration (SBA) Declarations for the planning area3. (Table: 2.1)
Year
1991-1992
1993
1994
1998
1999
2005
2005
2006
2008
2008
2016
2020
2021
Disaster
Number
930 DR
3113 DR
1041 DR
1239 DR
3142 DR
1606 DR
3216 DR
1624 DR
3284 DR
1791 DR
4272 DR
4485 DR
3554 DR
Primary
Incident
Flood
Drought
Flood
Severe Storm
Fire
Hurricane
Hurricane Evacuation
Fire
Fire
Hurricane
Flood/Tornado
Pandemic
Severe Ice Storm
Presidential
Declaration
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
SBA
Declaration
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Table: 2.1- Disaster Declarations by Year (Brazos County)
Population in the Planning Area
Demographics
As of July 1, 2022, the estimated population is 242,0142. Brazos County's population has
increased each year since 2010 as is graphically represented below. (Figure: 2.1) Using official
U.S. Census population counts, the estimate uses a formula based on new residential building
permits and household size. It is simply an estimate and there are many variables involved in
achieving an accurate estimation of people living in each area at a given time.
Source: FEMA3
27
Figure: 2.1 — Population Growth in Brazos County (2010 to 2021)
Source: Census Bureau2
Seasonal Population Growth
Texas A&M University4 and Blinn College5 have enrolled students, some of whom are only
located in the planning area during part of the calendar year. Table: 2.2 — TAMU4 and Blinn
College5 enrollment, identifies the Spring 2023 enrollment at each institution.
Institution Location
Enrollment Number Of
(Spring 2023) Faculty *
Texas A&M University College Station 64,215 4,062
Blinn College Bryan** 5,462 512
Table: 2.2 — TAMU4 and Blinn Colleges Enrollment (Spring 2023)
Blinn Colleges
Source: Office of Registrar — TAMU4 and
*Faculty includes professors, associate professors, assistant professors, other faculty, and teaching assistants.
**Blinn's main campus location is in Brenham, TX (outside of the planning area).
Future Development
To better understand how future growth and development in the County might affect hazard
vulnerability, it is useful to consider population growth, occupied and vacant land, the potential
for future development in hazard areas, and current planning and growth management efforts.
This section includes an analysis of the projected population change and economic impacts.
Population projections from 2010 to 2060 are listed in Figure: 2.2 — Projected Population Growth
(2010-2060), as provided by the Office of the State Demographer6, Texas State Data Center, and
the Institute for Demographic and Socioeconomic Research. Population projections are based on
a 0.5 scenario growth rate, which is 50 percent of the population growth rate that occurred during
2000-2010. This information is only available at the County level; however, the population
28
-.40
35
projection shows an increase in population density for the County, which would mean overall
growth for the County6.
The total resident population of all counties in the State for each year from 2020 through 2060,
with the 2020 population equal to the 2020 census count for the State of Texas and all counties in
Texas6.
60
35 54.4
50 tee.47.4
45 1�
•
40.6
44.4
30
25
20
2010 2020 2030 2040 2050 2060
2000-2010 (V2014)
2010-2015 (V2018)
2010-2020 (V2022)
Figure: 2.2 — Projected Population Growth (2010-2060) Source: Texas Demographic Center6
Economic Impact
Building and maintaining infrastructure depends on the economy, and therefore, protecting
infrastructure from risk due to natural hazards in the planning area is important to the
participating entities within Brazos County. Whether it is expanding culverts under a road that
washes out during flash flooding, shuttering a fire station, or flood -proofing a wastewater
facility, infrastructure must be strengthened from natural hazards to continue providing essential
utility and emergency response services in a fast-growing planning area. Major employers in the
area are critical to the health of the economy, as well as effective transportation connectivity.
Existing and Future Land Use and Development
Comprehensive or Master Plans are part of a continuous process to provide an environment for
the citizens and to consider the general desire of the community to conserve, preserve, and
protect the natural environment. These plans are used to guide individuals in making decisions
which affect the community with the understanding of the long-term effects.
Small and Impoverished Communities
The State of Texas requires that hazard mitigation plans identify any Small and Impoverished
Communities. According to the established criteria, The term "small impoverished communities"
is statutorily defined at 42 U.S.C. 5133(a) to mean a community of 3,000 or fewer individuals
29
that is economically disadvantaged, as determined by the state in which the community is located
and based on criteria established by the President. As the term is statutorily defined, the
maximum number of community members of 3,000 cannot be exceeded3. There are no
communities that meet this designation in the planning area. However, Brazos County
recognizes areas which meet the Low to Moderate Income standards as identified in the Tables
below. (Figure: 2.3 — Household Income Distribution) (Figure: 2.4 — Median Household Income
by Race)
— Brazos County — Texas
Percentile Oth - 100th 10th - 90th
20th - 80th 30th - loth
40th - 60th
0/ 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% Count %
$150-2DOk-
3.125-150k`
$100-125k-
575-100k`
$60-?5k'
$50-60k2
$45-50k
$4"-15k
S35-40k
S30-35k
525-30k
S20-25k
515-20k
S10-15k
.10k2
i i 3,152
3,159
` 4,921
7,938
6,131
4,892
2,537
3.135
.1.447
4,262
3,748
,880
07
l 104k
434%
4 16%
4 17%
649%
10 5%
8 09'%
645f
335%
4 14%
5 87%
5 62%
4 94%
6444
5 65%
6 14`4
13 8%
Gaunt number of households x7M mmmes m the tntenuot
% unnermaltzed percentage of households wrth Incomes m the fetes -vat
normalized assumrng rnter✓at of$50k normalized
$0k
American Indians
Non -Hispanic ,".`tile
All ,^-`hi-e
All
0-her
Hispanic
Mixed
Asian
Black
Figure: 2.3 — Household Income Distribution in Brazos
County (2022) Source: Statistical Atlas
Brazos County — Texas
$20k
$40k $60k
154%
3k 123%
k 115%
100%
87%
86%
84%
74%
72%
® as percentage of median household income afthe entire papulatnn
f Amencan Indian and Alaska Plata .2including Hispanic whites
9 entire papulahon 4 and other Pacific Islander
Figure: 2.4 Median Household Income by Race Source:
Statistical Atlas
Socially Vulnerable Populations
Table: 2.3 below, identifies socially vulnerable groups within the planning area, the number of
persons who make up that category according to the 2020 census, and the percentage of the total
population for that specific group2.
Social Vulnerability Indicator Number of Persons Percentage of
in Category Total Population
Under the age of 5
13,060
5.5%
65 years of age or older
24,414
10.3%
Non -white
48,118
20.3%
Persons in poverty*
53,569
22.6%
Persons over age 25 who have not completed high school
or obtained a GED
26,785
11.3%
Single -parent households with children
11,551
15.24%
Persons living in mobile homes, RVs, boats, and other
non-traditional housing**
7,707
9.23%
Vacant housing units**
5,408
6.48%
Table: 2.3 — Social Vulnerability (Brazos County)
*Income -to -poverty threshold ratio is 0.99 and below.
**Percentage is based on the total number of housing units.
Source: US Census Bureau2
30
The number of persons under the age of 18 living in single parent households, as of Texas Kids
Count's 2020 data, is 9,181. This is approximately 19.5% of the total number of children in the
planning area. (Table: 2.4 — Poverty (ages 0-18))11
Location
Data Type
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
Texas
Number
1,616,085
1,525,944
1,543,228
1,401,195
1,373,643
Percent
22.4%
21.0%
21.1%
19.2%
18.8%
Brazos
County
Number
10,040
9,339
9,297
9,181
9,181
Percent
22.5%
20.5%
20.2%
19.4%
19.5%
Table: 2.4 — Poverty in Brazos County (ages 0-18)
Source: Texas Kids Count11
Persistent Poverty
"Persistent Poverty Counties" means any county, including county equivalent areas in Puerto
Rico, that has had 20% or more of its population living in poverty over the past 30 years, as
measured by the 1990 and 2000 decennial censuses and the 2011-2015 5- year data series
available from the American Community Survey of the Bureau of the Census or any other
territory or possession of the United States that has had 20% or more of its population living in
poverty over the past 30 years, as measured by the 1990, 2000 and 2010 Island Areas Decennial
Censuses, or equivalent data, of the Bureau of the Census2. (See Table: 2.5 below)
County
FIPS
Code
County
State
1990
Poverty
%
2000
Poverty
%
2011-
2015
Poverty
%
48041
Brazos County
Texas
26.7
26.9
27.9
Table: 2.5 — Persistent Poverty County Percentages
Critical Facilities
Brazos County has the following distribution of critical infrastructure and lifelines. (Table: 2.6)
Source: US Census Bureau2
Oil Pipe (Miles)
Gas Pipe (Miles) Highway (Miles) Railroad (Miles)
233.57 1,130.83 134.46 70.33
Table: 2.6 — Critical Infrastructure and lifelines
Source: TXDOT12
A list of critical facilities by type12 and entity are found in Table: 2.7 below.
31
Brazos County
Bryan
College
Station
Texas A&M
University
Wixon
Valley
Kurten
Airport
1
1
Bus
2
1
City Hall
1
1
1
Communication
6
1
1
Courthouse
1
1
2
Electric
2
1
5
Emergency Centers
1
2
Emergency
Operations
1
1
1
2
1
1
Fire Station
12
5
6
Highway
5
2
Post Office
1
1
1
1
1
Medical
14
15
1
Police/Sheriff
Station
1
3
1
1
School
1
33
18
Wastewater
6
21
2
Assisted
Living/Nursing
Homes
10
4
Community/Gatheri
ng Centers
2
4
8
Table: 2.7 Critical Infrastructure by Type
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)'°
Multiple Entities
Highway
14
Railway Bridge
2
32
Land Use and Development
Agricultural Land Use
Table 2.8 indicates vital statistics about the farmland use in Brazos County.
NUMBER OF FARMS
AVERAGE FARM
SIZE (ACRES)
HARVESTED
CROPLAND (ACRES)
IRRIGATED LAND
(ACRES)
1,363
213
37,633
12,059
Table: 2.8 — Agricultural Land Use in Brazos County
Source: U.S. Dept. ofAgriculture9
Agricultural Products
Farms in the planning area produce a wide variety of agricultural products with cattle as the most
common. Other agricultural products include poultry, cotton, hay, horses, and horticulture for an
annual value of approximately $167.6 million.
Minerals
According to the United States Geologic Survey (USGS)13, the primary minerals found in the
planning area are alluvium, clay, limestone, gravel, sandstone, lignite, siltstone, tuff, mudstone,
gypsum, halite, petroleum, quartz, natural gas, and sand13
Continuing Development
The building of new structures will continue throughout the planning area due to population
growth. The Texas State Data Center projects continued moderate growth for the area while the
Texas Water Development Board forecasts a much steeper climb in population. Local
governments are working to develop the economic potential for the area and to bring high quality
jobs including commercial research opportunities13
Agriculture and Infectious Disease
Diseases emerging from agriculture typically get high levels of attention. Many originate in
wildlife and then spillover to people, often using livestock as bridges14. There is consensus that
emerging zoonotic pathogens are best managed by One Health approaches in which human
health, animal health and the environmental sectors work together. Recent epidemics and
pandemics of emerging disease highlight the importance of good surveillance and rapid
response14
The public health importance of foodborne disease is just starting to be recognized. The first
global assessment of FBD, developed by the World Health Organization, suggested the health
burden of FBD was comparable to that of malaria, HIV -AIDS, or tuberculosis14. There are
several strategies for managing foodborne disease including good practices, technologies, and
training14
Human infections that do not respond to treatment impose a large burden of illness and death as
well as entailing enormous health care costs14. An unknown but potentially substantial amount of
this burden is due to the use of antimicrobials in agriculture14. It is widely appreciated that
33
agriculture development contributes significantly to public health outcomes. Collaborations that
bridge the structural divisions between the agriculture and health sectors provide an opportunity
for better managing these important diseases14
34
References — Section 2
1. Texas State Historical Association. 2020. Your Texas State History. httns://www.tshaonline.org/home
2. United State Census Bureau.2022. Brazos County, Texas. httns://www.census.zov/auickfacts/brazoscountvtexas
3. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Disaster Declarations for States and Counties. httns://wwwfema.gov/data-
visualization/disaster-declarations-states-and-counties
4. Texas A & M University. Office of the Registrar. httns://rezistrar.tamu.edu/
5. Blinn College. Office of the Registrar. httns://www.blinn.eduladmissions/index.html
6. Texas Demographic Center. Projected Population Growth. httns://demozranhics.texas.zov/
7. Statistical Atlas. Overview of the United States. Texas. httns://statisticalatlas.com/United-States/Overview
8. Texas County Profiles. Brazos County. httns://txcin.org/tac/census/vrofile.vhn?FIPS=48041
9. US Department of Agriculture. Land Use, Land Value, & Tenure. httns://www.ers.usda.zov/tonics/farm-economv/land-
use-land-value-tenure/
10. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httns://bcdem.orz/emerzencv/plans
11. Texas KIDS COUNT at Every Texan. Kids Count Data Center. httns://datacenter.aecforz/about/state-
nroviders/details/44-texas-kids-count-at-every-texan
12. Texas Department of Transportation. Brazos County, Texas. httns://wwwtxdot.zov/
13. US Geological Survey. Brazos County, Texas. httns://www.usgs.gov/
14. Grace D. Infectious Diseases and Agriculture. Encyclopedia of Food Security and Sustainability. 2019:439-47. doi:
10.1016/B978-0-08-100596-5.21570-9. Epub 2018 Nov 16. PMCID: PMC7161382.
35
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36
Section 3 — The Planning Process
Plan Preparation
Hazard mitigation planning involves coordination with various constituents and stakeholders to
develop a more disaster -resistant community. This plan was prepared by the hazard mitigation
planning team on behalf of the following participating entities that are all seeking approval for
this plan; Brazos County; the Cities of Bryan, College Station, Kurten, and Wixon Valley; and
Texas A&M University.
7. Keep track
of progress
r
6. Develop an
action plan
1. Describe
your
community
MITIGATION
PLANNING
PROCESS
5. Develop the
strategy
Figure: 3.1 — The Mitigation Planning Process
2. Identify your
hazards
3. Explain
impacts on
community
4. Review your
current
capability
Source: FEMA'
The process used to prepare the plan followed the major steps included Figure: 3.1. After the
planning team was organized, a capability assessment was developed and distributed. Hazards
were identified and assessed, and results associated with each of the hazards were provided at the
risk assessment meeting. Based on Brazos County's identified vulnerabilities, specific mitigation
strategies were discussed and developed at the mitigation strategy meeting. Finally, plan
maintenance and implementation procedures were developed and are included in this section.
The participation of planning team members, stakeholders, and the public at each of the meetings
is documented in Appendices A, D, and E.
At the plan development meetings held throughout the planning process described herein, the
following factors were taken into consideration':
➢ The nature and magnitude of risks currently affecting the community.
➢ Hazard mitigation goals to address current and expected conditions.
➢ Whether current resources will be sufficient for implementing the plan.
37
➢ Implementation problems, such as technical, political, legal, and coordination
issues, may hinder development.
➢ Anticipated outcomes.
➢ What participating entities within Brazos County, agencies, and partners will
participate in implementing the plan.
Planning for the 2020-2022 years was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the shifting of
operations to support other local, state, and federal initiatives. In December 2022, Brazos'
County resumed operations under emergency management and resumed planning efforts, but due
to lack of funding and staffing, many hazard mitigation projects were incomplete (See Appendix
G) for the planning area and will be rolled over into the 2024-2029 Hazard Mitigation Action
Plan.
During resumption of activities, important discussions were held that resulted in the development
of mitigation actions that are included in the plan that are designed to further mitigate risk from
natural hazards in the future. The planning team developed hazard mitigation actions for
mitigating risk from all the hazards including potential flooding, hail, and extreme heat. These
actions include but are not limited to drainage improvement projects, strengthening critical
facilities, installing generators, and educating citizens to practice hazard mitigation techniques.
Planning Team
A full roster of the hazard mitigation planning team showing names, agencies, and titles is
available in Appendix A.
Mitigation Review and Development
The participating entities developed mitigation strategies for the plan and identified new goals
and mitigation actions. Additionally, the participating entities were proactive in identifying
mitigation actions that would lessen the risk of all the identified hazards included in the plan.
An inclusive and structured process was used to develop and prioritize new hazard mitigation
actions for the plan. The prioritization method was based on FEMA's STAPLE+E (Social,
technological, administrative, political, legal, and economic/environmental) criterial.
As a result, each planning team member was assigned an overall priority to each hazard
mitigation action. The overall priority of each action is reflected in the hazard mitigation actions
found in Section 16 — Mitigation Actions.
Planning team members then developed action plans identifying proposed actions, costs and
benefits, the responsible organization(s), effects on new and existing buildings, implementation
schedules, priorities, and potential funding sourcesl.
Specifically, the process involved:
D. Listing optional hazard mitigation actions based on information collected from
previous plan reviews, studies, and interviews with federal, state, and local
38
officials. Workshop participants reviewed the optional mitigation actions and
selected actions that were most applicable to their area of responsibility, cost-
effective in reducing risk, easily implemented, and likely to receive
institutional and community support.
➢ Meeting participants inventoried federal and state funding sources that could
assist in implementing the proposed hazard mitigation actions. Information was
collected (when available), including the program name, authority, purpose of
the program, types of assistance and eligible projects, conditions on funding,
types of hazards covered, matching requirements, application deadlines, and a
point of contact.
D. Planning team members considered the benefits that would result from
implementing the hazard mitigation actions compared to the cost of those
projects. Although detailed cost benefit analyses were beyond the scope of the
plan, planning team members utilized economic evaluation as a determining
factor between hazard mitigation actions.
➢ Planning team members then selected and prioritized mitigation actions.
Hazard mitigation actions identified in the process were made available to the Planning Team for
review. The draft plan will be made available to the public for review on participating entities'
websites, with the chance to comment via sending an email.
Review and Incorporation of Existing Plans
Background information utilized during the planning process included various studies, plans,
reports, and technical information from sources such as FEMA, the United States Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE), the U.S. Fire Administration, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA), the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Texas State Data Center, Texas Forest Service, the Texas
Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), and local hazard assessments and plans.
The Risk Overview - Section 4 and the hazard -specific sections of the plan (Sections 5-15)
summarize the relevant background information. Specific background documents, including
those from FEMAI, provided information on hazard risk, hazard mitigation actions currently
being implemented, and potential mitigation actions. Previous hazard events, occurrences, and
descriptions were identified through NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information
(NCEI). Results of past hazard events were found through searching the NCEI. The USACE
studies were reviewed for their assessment of risk and potential projects in the region. State Data
Center documents were used to obtain population projections. The State Demographer webpages
were reviewed for population and other projections and included in the Demographics - Section
2 of the plan. Information from the Texas Forest Service was used to appropriately rank the
wildfire hazard, and to help identify potential grant opportunities. Materials from FEMA and
TDEM were reviewed for guidance on plan development requirements.
39
Incorporation of Existing Plans into the HMAP Process
A capability assessment was completed by key departments from the participating entities within
Brazos County which provided information pertaining to existing plans, policies, ordinances, and
regulations to be integrated into the goals and objectives of the plan. The relevant information
was included in Appendix F - Capability Assessment.
Existing projects and studies were utilized as a starting point for discussing hazard mitigation
actions among planning team members. Additionally, policies and ordinances were reviewed by
several of the participating entities. These entities have included actions to develop and
implement routine debris clearing programs and restrict future development in high -risk areas.
Other plans were reviewed, such as Emergency Operations Plans and Capital Improvement
Plans, to identify any additional mitigation actions.
Finally, the 2023 Texas State Hazard Mitigation Plan, developed by TDEM, was discussed in the
initial planning meeting to develop a specific group of hazards to address in the planning effort.
The 2023 Texas State Hazard Mitigation Plan was also used as a guidance document, along with
FEMA materials, in the development of the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan 2024.
Incorporation of the HMAP into Other Planning Mechanisms
Planning team members will integrate implementation of the plan with other planning
mechanisms for Brazos County, such as the Emergency Operations Plan. Existing plans for
participating entities will be reviewed and incorporated into the plan, as appropriate. This section
discusses how the plan will be implemented by the participating entities within Brazos County. It
also addresses how the plan will be evaluated and improved over time, and how the public will
continue to be involved in the hazard mitigation planning process.
Participating entities within Brazos County will be responsible for implementing hazard
mitigation actions contained in Section 16. Each hazard mitigation action has been assigned to a
specific department within each participating entity that is responsible for tracking and
implementing the action.
A funding source has been listed for each identified hazard mitigation action and may be utilized
to implement the action. An implementation period will be determined to each hazard mitigation
action, as per entities discretion and determined by fundings and availability.
Participating entities within Brazos County will integrate hazard mitigation actions contained in
the plan with existing planning mechanisms such as Subdivision Regulations, Emergency
Operations or Management Plans, Evacuation Plans, and other local and area planning efforts.
Brazos County will work closely with area organizations to coordinate implementation of hazard
mitigation actions that benefit the planning area in terms of financial and economic impact.
Upon formal adoption of the plan, planning team members from the participating entities will
review existing plans along with building codes to guide development and ensure that hazard
mitigation actions are implemented. Each of the entities will be responsible for coordinating a
40
periodic review of the plan with members of the advisory planning team to ensure integration of
hazard mitigation strategies into these planning mechanisms and codes.
The planning team will also conduct periodic reviews of various existing planning mechanisms
and analyze the need for any amendments or updates considering the approved plan.
Participating entities within Brazos County will ensure that future long-term planning objectives
will contribute to the goals of the plan to reduce the long-term risk to life and property from
moderate and high -risk hazards to the extent possible. Within one year of formal adoption of the
plan, existing planning mechanisms will be reviewed and analyzed as they pertain to the plan.
Planning team members will review and revise, as necessary, the long-range goals and objectives
in its strategic plan and budgets to ensure that they are consistent with the plan.
Furthermore, Brazos County will work with neighboring entities to advance the goals of the plan
as it applies to ongoing, long-range planning goals and actions for mitigating risk to natural
hazards throughout the planning area.
Table: 3.1, identifies types of planning mechanisms and examples of methods for incorporating
the Plan into other planning efforts.
Planning Mechanism
Examples of Methods
Annual Budget Review
Various departments and key personnel that participated in the
planning process for participating entities within Brazos County will
review the plan and mitigation actions therein when conducting their
annual budget review.
Allowances will be made in accordance with grant applications sought,
and mitigation actions that will be undertaken, according to the
implementation schedule of the specific action.
Capital Improvement Plans
Participating entities within Brazos County have a Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) in place. Prior to any revisions to the CIP,
County, City departments, including ISDs, will review the risk
assessment and mitigation strategy sections of the HMAP, as limiting
public spending in hazardous zones is one of the most effective long-
term mitigation actions available to local governments.
Comprehensive Plans
Since comprehensive plans involve developing a unified vision
for a community, the mitigation vision and goals of the plan will
be reviewed in the development or revision of a Comprehensive
Plan.
Floodplain Management Plans
Floodplain management plans include preventative and corrective
actions to address the flood hazard. Therefore, the actions for
flooding, and information found in Section 6 of this plan discussing
the people, property, and animals at risk to flood, will be reviewed, and
revised when participating entities within Brazos County update their
management plans or develop new plans.
41
The plan will be evaluated by participating entities within Brazos
Grant Applications
County when grant funding is sought for mitigation projects. If a
project is not in the plan, an addendum may be necessary to include the
action in the plan.
Currently, participating entities within Brazos County have regulatory
plans in place, such as Emergency Management Plans, Economic
Development and Evacuation Plans.
Regulatory Plans
The plan will be consulted when County and City departments,
including ISDs, review or revise their current regulatory planning
mechanisms. Development of regulatory plans that are not currently in
place.
Table: 3.1-Types of Planning Mechanisms and Examples of Methods for Incorporating the Plan
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)2
It should be noted for the purposes of the plan that the HMAP has been used as a reference when
reviewing and updating all plans and ordinances for the entire planning area, including all
participating entities. The Emergency Management Plan has been developed by Brazos County;
the Cities of Bryan, College Station, Kurten, and Wixon Valley; and Texas A&M University. The
annexes of the plan will be updated on a rotating basis every 5 years and incorporate goals,
objectives, and actions identified in the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan.
Plan Review and Plan Update
As with the development of the plan, participating entities within Brazos County will oversee the
review and update process for relevance and to make necessary adjustments, as needed. Within
the first quarter of each fiscal year, after approval, planning team members will meet to evaluate
the plan and review other planning mechanisms to ensure consistency with long-range planning
efforts are being achieved. In addition, planning participants will monitor and evaluate the plan
and will meet once to twice a year, as updates are needed, by conference call or presentation, to
re-evaluate prioritization of the hazard mitigation actions. For more information on monitoring,
evaluation, disaster declarations, plan amendments, HMAP review, and continued public
involvement see Section 17.
Timeline for Implementing Mitigation Actions
The planning team will engage in discussions regarding a timeframe for how and when to
implement each hazard mitigation action. Considerations include when the action will be started,
how existing planning mechanisms' timelines affect implementation, and when the action should
be fully implemented. Timeframes may be general, and there will be short, medium, and long-
term goals for implementation based on prioritization of each action.
The planning team will evaluate and prioritize the most suitable hazard mitigation actions to
implement. The timeline for implementation of actions will partially be directed by participating
entities' comprehensive planning process, budgetary constraints, and community needs.
Participating entities within Brazos County are committed to addressing and implementing
hazard mitigation actions that may be aligned with and integrated into the plan.
42
Overall, the planning team agrees that the goals and actions of the plan shall be aligned with the
timeframe for implementation of hazard mitigation actions with respect to annual review and
updates of existing plans and policies.
Public and Stakeholder Involvement
An important component of hazard mitigation planning is public participation and stakeholder
involvement. Input from individual citizens and the community provides the planning team with
a greater understanding of local concerns and increases the likelihood of successfully
implementing hazard mitigation actions. If citizens and stakeholders, such as local businesses,
non -profits, hospitals, and schools are involved, they are more likely to gain a greater
appreciation of the risks that hazards may present in their community and take steps to reduce or
mitigate their impact.
The public has been involved in the development of the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action
Plan 2024 at different stages prior to official Plan approval and adoption. Public input was
sought using three methods: (1) open public meetings; (2) survey instruments; and (3) making
the draft plan available for public review at participating entities' websites.
The draft plan will be made available to the public for review and comment on participating
entities' websites. The public was notified at the public meetings that the draft plan would be
available for review. Currently no feedback has been received on the draft plan, although
questions given on a public survey, and all relevant information provided through the surveys
were incorporated into the plan. Public input was utilized to assist in identifying hazards that
were of most concern to the citizens of the County and what actions they felt should be included
and prioritized. The plan will be posted on the Brazos County and participating entities' websites
upon approval from FEMA, and a copy will be kept at the Brazos County website
(https://bcdem.org/emergemcy/plans).
Stakeholder Involvement
Stakeholder involvement is essential to hazard mitigation planning since a wide range of
stakeholders can provide input on specific topics and from various points of view. Throughout
the planning process, members of community groups, local businesses, and neighboring
jurisdictions were invited to participate in development of the plan. Stakeholders and participants
from neighboring communities that attended the planning team and public meetings played a key
role in the planning process.
During the development of the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan, involvement was
sought from stakeholders and the community at large. Opportunities for feedback were available
in multiple ways including open public meetings, community engagement events (TAMU, City
of Bryan Open House, Brazos County Health Fair, and National Night Out), physical and online
surveys, and as stated above, a draft plan was made available on our websites. Opportunities
were announced through stakeholders, social and traditional media channels, and paper flyers on
community bulletin boards. To ensure underserved and vulnerable populations were informed
and included, targeted invitations were given to participants of programs through the Brazos
43
County Health District, American Red Cross, and other Voluntary Organizations Active in
Disasters (VOADs) in the planning area.
Public and stakeholder involvement met all requirements under CFR Title 44 §201.6(b).
Public Meetings
A series of public meetings were held throughout the planning area to collect public and
stakeholder input. Topics of discussion included the purpose of hazard mitigation, the planning
process, and types of natural hazards. Each participating entity within Brazos County released
information regarding the public meetings in the area to increase public participation in the plan
development process, through posting on their website, on social media sources including
Facebook and Twitter, through the local media, and/or posting the information on bulletin boards
in public facilities. A sampling of these notices can be found in Appendix D and E, along with
the documentation on the public meetings. Representatives from area neighborhood associations
and area residents were invited to participate.
Public meetings were held on the following dates and locations:
➢ Monday, November 13, 2023, at the Brazos Center in the city of Bryan.
➢ Monday, December 11, 2023, at the Brazos Center in the city of Bryan.
D. Meeting three (3) will take place after the preliminary approval of the Hazard
Mitigation Action Plan.
Public Participation Survey
In addition to public meetings, the planning team developed a public survey designed to solicit
public input during the planning process from citizens and stakeholders and to obtain data
regarding the identification of any potential hazard mitigation actions or problem areas. This
survey was written in both English and Spanish.
The survey was promoted by local officials and a link to the survey was posted on participating
entities' websites. A total of 131 surveys were completed online. The questions are displayed,
and the results are analyzed in Appendix C. Participating entities within Brazos County reviewed
the input from the surveys and decided which information to incorporate into the plan as hazard
mitigation actions.
The Hazard Mitigation Team established the following avenues to solicit public opinion and
participation, as required by CFR Title 44 &201.6(b):
• Offering surveys in English and Spanish.
• Providing facilities for meetings.
• Making decisions on the planning process and content.
• Establishing new goals.
44
• Consistently reviewing and providing comments on drafts with each participating entity.
• Identifying projects and mitigation actions for each hazard.
• Posting on social media and the CEOC website (brazosceoc.org).
• Discussing the planning process with various groups: Voluntary Organizations Active in
Disasters, Health District, American Red Cross, Texas Department of Emergency
Management, Texas Department of Public Safety.
• Coordinating the formal adoption of the plan.
Open Meetings
Open meetings were scheduled, announced, and held at the Brazos Center and the VOAD
Quarterly Meetings at Rellis Campus, to collect feedback from the diverse populations within
Brazos County. Each meeting was posted publicly with paper flyers and online notifications as
well as through social and traditional media channels. Announcements were made in both
English and Spanish on the Brazos County website using the website translator.
The public meetings were held at the Brazos Center located at 3232 Briarcrest Drive in Bryan,
Texas. This location was chosen for its centrality within the planning area, its familiarity as a
public, multi -use event facility, and its accessibility for all members of the community including
those with functional and access needs. Meetings were conducted in English with interpreters
upon request.
Documentation from public meetings and sample announcements are available in Appendices D
and E of this document. A third public meeting will be held announcing the FEMA-approved
plan version, and public feedback and commentary will continue to be solicited and welcomed as
part ongoing effort to make the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan a living document.
Physical and Online Surveys
A survey was created to obtain valuable community feedback regarding disaster experience,
preparation, perception, and overall knowledge within the planning area. The survey was
published online in both English and Spanish, and physical copies of the survey in English and
Spanish, were provided at in -person outreach events and public meetings throughout the
planning area. In addition, paper flyers with a QR code were placed on community message
boards and stakeholder locations. At the date of initial plan submission, the total number of
surveys received was 131. The survey will remain open indefinitely as part of the ongoing effort
to collect and maintain community feedback for the continuous improvement of the Brazos
County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan.
The survey questions as well as a results analysis are available in Appendix C of this document.
Review Copies of the Draft Plan
Copies of the draft plan were available to the public for review and comment on stakeholder
websites. The community was advised of these opportunities during outreach events, public
45
meetings, and through social and traditional media channels. At the date of initial plan
submission, no feedback or commentary had been received on the draft plan.
Use of Feedback and Commentary
Input from the public was utilized to identify hazards in the planning area as well as clarify
historic impacts and existing public perception of future risk. In addition, feedback was and will
continue to be used to inform public information and outreach direction and needs.
Ongoing Feedback and Commentary Opportunities
A draft version of the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan remains available for public
review and comment on stakeholder websites. This version will be replaced with the final
version after approval from FEMA, and public feedback and commentary will continue to be
solicited and welcomed. In addition, the online survey in both English and Spanish will remain
available indefinitely. The feedback and comments received will be reviewed and incorporated
as applicable during the annual plan review process.
Vulnerable Populations
While every effort was made to reach everyone in Brazos County through the multiple efforts
and outreaches listed above, only minimal participation was captured as evidenced by the small
amount of participation in not only the community meetings, but also the community survey.
As mentioned before the survey was brought to many community outings around Brazos County
and its participating entities as well as online While we acknowledge this lack of participation,
we also will continue our outreach efforts through community events as well as keeping the
online questionnaire available for the community to voice their opinions and help guide us in
what is needed to support the county in moving forward. In the updates of the HMAP as defined,
we will revise our numbers of those participating and the different events that we attend to
spread awareness and solicit input throughout the communities.
Continuing efforts and every opportunity to reach everyone within Brazos County and
participating entities areas will be utilized.
46
References — Section 3
1. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Mitigation Planning Process.
httvs://www.fema.zov/zrants/mitization/zuidethart-11/a/2
2. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httvs://bcdem.org/emergencv/plans
47
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48
Section 4 — Capabilities Assessment
Description
The purpose of conducting a Capability Assessment is to determine the ability of a local
jurisdiction to implement a comprehensive mitigation strategy, and to identify potential
opportunities for establishing or enhancing specific mitigation policies, programs, or projects. As
in any planning process, it is important to try to establish which goals, objectives, and actions are
feasible, based on an understanding of the organizational capacity of those agencies or
departments tasked with the implementations.
A Capability Assessment helps to determine which mitigation actions are practical and likely to
be implemented over time given a local government's planning and regulatory framework, level
of administrative and technical support, the number of fiscal resources, and current political
climate.
The completed Capability Assessment Chart, included in Appendix F, provides information on
existing policies, plans, and regulations for Brazos County and the participating entities.
Each community has a unique set of capabilities, including policies, programs, staff, funding,
and other resources available to accomplish hazard mitigation objectives and reduce long term
vulnerability. The planning team identified existing capabilities that currently reduce disaster
losses or could be used to reduce losses in the future, and capabilities that inadvertently increase
risks in the community.
Hazard Mitigation Baseline Capabilities
Hazard mitigation is widely recognized as one of the five primary phases of emergency
management. The four other phases are prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. Each
phase is interconnected with hazard mitigation, as seen in Figure 4.1. Opportunities to reduce
potential losses through mitigation practices are most often implemented before a disaster event,
such as elevation of flood -prone structures or through the continuous enforcement of policies
that prevent and regulate development that is vulnerable to hazards because of its location,
design, or other characteristics. Mitigation opportunities can also be identified during immediate
preparedness or response activities, and in many instances during the long-term recovery and
redevelopment process following a disaster event.
49
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RESPONSE
Figure: 4.1 — The Five Phases of Emergency Management
Brazos County and the participating entities have the following internal capabilities related to
hazard mitigation which serve as a baseline of what they can accomplish with relation to hazard
mitigation goals and strategies (Table 4.1).
Emergency Response
South Brazos County ESD 1
South Brazos County VFD
Brazos County District 2
ESD
Brazos County District 2
VFD
Brazos County Precinct 3
VFD
Brazos County VFD 4
City of Bryan Fire
Department
City of College Station Fire
Department
City of Bryan Police
Department
City of College Station Police
Station
Brazos County Sheriff's
Department
Texas A & M University
Police Department
Plans
Interjurisdictional Emergency Management Plan
Basic Plan
Annex A
Annex L
Annex B
Annex M
Annex C
Annex N
Annex D
Annex 0
Annex E
Annex P
Annex F
Annex Q
Annex G
Annex R
Annex H
Annex S
Annex I
Annex T
Annex J
Annex U
Annex K
Annex V
Table: 4.1 — Baseline Capabilities
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)1
More information can be found on the plans and annexes in Table: 4.1, above at:
https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
Capability Assessment Findings
The findings of the capability assessment are summarized in this plan to provide insight into
the relevant capacity of the participating entities in Brazos County to implement hazard
mitigation activities. All information is based upon the review of the existing HMAP and
local government websites and the Emergency Management Coordinators through the
Capability Assessment.
Planning and Regulatory Capabilities
Planning and regulatory capability is based on the implementation of plans, ordinances, and
programs that demonstrate a local participating entities commitment to guiding and managing
growth, development, and redevelopment in a responsible manner while maintaining the general
welfare of the community. It includes emergency response and mitigation planning,
comprehensive land use planning, and transportation planning; the enforcement of zoning or
subdivision ordinances and building codes that regulate how land is developed and structures are
built; as well as protecting environmental, historic, and cultural resources in the community.
Although some conflicts can arise, these planning initiatives generally present significant
opportunities to integrate hazard mitigation principles and practices into the local decision -
making process. This assessment is designed to provide a general overview of the key planning
and regulatory tools and programs that are in place or under development for the participating
entities in Brazos County along with their potential effect on loss reduction. This information
will help identify opportunities to address existing gaps, weaknesses, or conflicts with other
initiatives in addition to integrating the implementation of this plan with existing planning
mechanisms where appropriate. Appendix F provides a summary of the capability assessment
results for Brazos County and participating entities, regarding relevant planning and regulatory
capabilities.
Hazard Mitigation Plan: An HMAP represents a community's blueprint for how it intends
to reduce the impact of natural and human -caused hazards on people and the built
51
environment. The essential elements of an HMAP include a risk assessment, capability
assessment, and mitigation strategy.
Disaster Recovery Plan: A disaster recovery plan serves to guide the physical, social,
environmental, and economic recovery and reconstruction process following a disaster. In
many instances, hazard mitigation principles and practices are incorporated into local disaster
recovery plans with the intent of capitalizing on opportunities to break the cycle of repetitive
disaster losses. Disaster recovery plans can also lead to the preparation of disaster
redevelopment policies and ordinances to be enacted following a hazard event.
Emergency Operations Plan: An emergency operations plan outlines responsibilities and
the means by which resources are deployed during and following an emergency or disaster.
Continuity of Operations Plan: A continuity of operations plan establishes a chain of
command, line of succession, and plans for backup or alternate emergency facilities in case of
an extreme emergency or disaster event.
Flood Response Plan: A flood response plan establishes procedures for responding to a flood
emergency including coordinating and facilitating resources to minimize the impacts of flood.
General Planning
The implementation of hazard mitigation activities often involves agencies and individuals
beyond the emergency management profession. Stakeholders may include local planners,
public works officials, economic development specialists, and others. In many instances,
concurrent local planning efforts will help to achieve or complement hazard mitigation goals,
even though they are not designed as such.
Comprehensive Land Use Plan: A comprehensive land use plan establishes the overall
vision for what a community wants to be and serves as a guide for future governmental
decision making. Typically, a comprehensive plan contains sections on demographic
conditions, land use, transportation elements, and community facilities. Given the broad
nature of the plan and its regulatory standing in many communities, the integration of hazard
mitigation measures into the comprehensive plan can enhance the likelihood of achieving risk
reduction goals, objectives, and actions.
Capital Improvements Plan: A CIP guides the scheduling of spending on public
improvements. A capital improvements plan can serve as an important mechanism for guiding
future development away from identified hazard areas. Limiting public spending in hazardous
areas is one of the most effective long-term mitigation actions available to local governments.
Historic Preservation Plan: A historic preservation plan is intended to preserve historic
structures or districts within a community. An often -overlooked aspect of the historic
preservation plan is the assessment of buildings and sites located in areas subject to natural
hazards and the identification of ways to reduce future damage. This may involve retrofitting
52
or relocation techniques that account for the need to protect buildings that do not meet current
building standards or are within a historic district that cannot easily be relocated out of harm's
way.
Open Space Management Plan: An open space management plan is designed to preserve,
protect, and restore largely undeveloped lands in their natural state and to expand or connect
areas in the public domain such as parks, greenways, and other outdoor recreation areas. In
many instances, open space management practices are consistent with the goals of reducing
hazard losses, such as the preservation of wetlands or other flood -prone areas in their natural
state in perpetuity.
Stormwater Management Plan: A stormwater management plan is designed to address
flooding associated with stormwater runoff. The stormwater management plan is typically
focused on design and construction measures that are intended to reduce the impact of more
frequently occurring minor urban flooding.
Codes and Ordinances
Zoning Ordinance: Zoning represents the primary means by which land use is controlled by
local governments. As part of a community's police power, zoning is used to protect the public
health, safety, and welfare of those in a given jurisdiction that maintains zoning authority. A
zoning ordinance is the mechanism through which zoning is typically implemented. Since
zoning regulations enable municipal governments to limit the type and density of
development, a zoning ordinance can serve as a powerful tool when applied in identified
hazard areas.
Subdivision Ordinance: A subdivision ordinance is intended to regulate the development
of residential, commercial, industrial, or other uses, including associated public
infrastructure, as land is subdivided into buildable lots for sale or future development.
Subdivision design that accounts for natural hazards can dramatically reduce the exposure
of future development.
Building Codes, Permitting, and Inspections: Building codes regulate construction
standards. In many communities, permits and inspections are required for new construction.
Decisions regarding the adoption of building codes (that account for hazard risk), the type of
permitting process required both before and after a disaster, and the enforcement of inspection
protocols all affect the level of hazard risk faced by a community.
Floodplain Management: Flooding represents the greatest natural hazard facing the nation. At
the same time, the tools available to reduce the impacts associated with flooding are among the
most developed when compared to other hazard -specific mitigation techniques. In addition to
approaches that cut across hazards such as education, outreach, and the training of local officials,
the NFIP contains specific regulatory measures that enable government officials to determine
where and how growth occurs relative to flood hazards. Participation in the NFIP is voluntary for
local governments; however, program participation is strongly encouraged by FEMA as a
first step for implementing and sustaining an effective hazard mitigation program. It is
53
therefore used as part of this assessment as a key indicator for measuring local capability.
Community Rating System: An additional indicator of floodplain management capability
is the active participation of local jurisdictions in the Community Rating System (CRS). The
CRS is an incentive -based program that encourages counties and municipalities to undertake
defined flood mitigation activities that go beyond the minimum requirements of the NFIP by
adding extra local measures to provide protection from flooding. All of the 18 creditable CRS
mitigation activities are assigned a range of point values. As points are accumulated and reach
identified thresholds, communities can apply for an improved CRS class rating. Class ratings,
which range from 10 to 1. As class rating improves (the lower the number the better), the
percent reduction in flood insurance premiums for NFIP policyholders in that community
increases.
Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance: A flood damage prevention ordinance establishes
minimum building standards in the floodplain with the intent to minimize public and private
losses due to flood conditions.
Floodplain Management Plan: A Floodplain Management Plan (FMP, or flood mitigation
plan) provides a framework for action regarding corrective and preventative measures to
reduce flood- related impacts.
Appendix F provides a summary of the capability assessment results for Brazos County and
participating entities, regarding relevant codes and ordinances. See Appendix F — for
additional information.
Administrative and Technical Capabilities
The ability of a local government to develop and implement mitigation projects, policies, and
programs is directly tied to its ability to direct staff time and resources for that purpose.
Administrative capability can be evaluated by determining how mitigation -related activities
are assigned to local departments and if there are adequate personnel resources to complete
these activities. The degree of intergovernmental coordination among departments will also
affect administrative capability for the implementation and success of proposed mitigation
activities. Technical capability can generally be evaluated by assessing the level of knowledge
and technical expertise of local government employees, such as personnel skilled in using
GIS to analyze and assess community hazard vulnerability. The Capability Assessment was
used to capture information on administrative and technical capability through the
identification of available staff and personnel resources. Appendix F provides a summary of
the capability assessment results for Brazos County and participating entities, regarding
relevant staff and personnel capabilities.
Financial Capabilities
The ability of a local government to act is often closely associated with the amount of money
available to implement policies and projects. This may take the form of outside grant funding
awards or locally based revenue and financing. The costs associated with mitigation policy and
54
project implementation vary widely. In some cases, policies are tied primarily to staff time or
administrative costs associated with the creation and monitoring of a given program. In other
cases, direct expenses are linked to an actual project, such as the acquisition of flood -prone
homes, which can require a substantial commitment from local, state, and federal funding
sources. Appendix F provides a summary of the financial assessment results for Brazos County
and participating entities, regarding relevant financial capabilities.
Outreach and Education Capabilities
One of the most difficult capabilities to evaluate involves the outreach/education of a
jurisdiction to enact meaningful outreach and education designed to reduce the impact of
future hazard events. Hazard mitigation may not be a local priority or may conflict with or be
seen as an impediment to other goals of the community, such as growth and economic
development. Therefore, the local outreach/education climate must be considered in
designing mitigation strategies as it could be the most difficult hurdle to overcome in
accomplishing their adoption and implementation. Appendix F provides a summary of the
outreach/educational assessment results for Brazos County and participating entities,
regarding relevant outreach and education capabilities.
Expanding and Improving Capabilities
The purpose of the Capability Assessment is to assist Brazos County and the participating
entities in identifying gaps in planning, staff, and resourcing and examine the potential to expand
and improve capabilities. Options for improving capabilities include the following:
• Engaging planning team members with the authority to monitor the HMAP and identify
grant funding opportunities for expanding staff.
• Identifying opportunities for cross -training or increasing the technical expertise of staff
by attending free training available through FEMA and the Texas Division of Emergency
Management (TDEM) via preparingtexas.org.
• Reviewing current floodplain ordinances for opportunities to increase resiliency such as
modifying permitting or building codes.
• Identifying partnerships where communities may form Mutual Aid Agreements or
Memorandums of Understanding to aid and bolster existing resources and solicit
assistance from national sources such as Flood Smartt and state sources such as the Texas
Association of Counties.
The participating entities used the Capability Assessment as part of the basis for the Mitigation
Actions that are identified in Appendix F; therefore, each entity addresses their ability to expand
on and improve their existing capabilities through the identification of their Mitigation Actions.
The conclusions of the Risk Assessment and Capability Assessment serve as the foundation for
the development of a meaningful hazard mitigation strategy. During the process of identifying
specific mitigation actions to pursue, as well as existing capabilities to minimize or eliminate a
risk.
55
References — Section 4
1. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httvs://bcdem.orQ/emerQencv/plans
2. Flood Smart. The National Flood Insurance Program. httns://www.floodsmart.Qov/
56
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57
Section 5 — Risk Overview
Hazard Identification
The first phase of the risk assessment is providing background information for the hazard
identification process and descriptions for the hazards identified. The risk assessment continues
with Sections 5 through 15, which include hazard descriptions and vulnerability assessments.
Upon review of the full range of natural hazards suggested under the FEMA planning guidance,
participating entities within Brazos County identified ten (10) hazards that are addressed in the
Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Of the hazards identified, eight (8) were natural hazards, one (1) a quasi -technological hazard
(dam failure), and one (1) infectious disease were identified as significant.
The hazards were identified through input from planning team members and a review of the
current 2023 Texas State Hazard Mitigation Plan. Additionally, readily available online
information from reputable sources such as federal and state agencies were also evaluated and
utilized to supplement information as needed.
In general, there are three main categories of hazards: atmospheric, hydrologic, and
technological.
> Atmospheric hazards are events or incidents associated with weather generated
phenomenon. Atmospheric hazards that have been identified as significant for the
planning area include extreme heat, hail, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and severe winter
storms.
> Hydrologic hazards are events or incidents associated with water related damage and
account for over 75 percent of federal disaster declarations in the United States.
Hydrologic hazards identified as significant for the planning area include flooding and
drought.
> Technological hazards refer to the origins of incidents that can arise from human
activities, such as the construction and maintenance of dams. They are distinct from
natural hazards primarily because they originate from human activity. The risks presented
by natural hazards may be increased or decreased because of human activity, however
they are not inherently human -induced. Therefore, dam failure is classified as a quasi -
technological hazard and referred to as "technological". Other causes of dam failure can
be the shrinking and swelling of the clay -like soil within the planning area.
For the risk assessment, wildfire hazard is considered "other," since wildfires are not considered
atmospheric, hydrologic, nor technological.
Also, for risk assessment, infectious diseases are considered "other" since infectious diseases are
not considered atmospheric, hydrologic, or technological.
Property and crop damages were estimated by gathering data from the National Centers for
Environmental Information (NCEI) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
58
(NOAA)1. The assessment also examined the impact of various hazards on the built environment,
including general building stock, critical facilities, lifelines, and infrastructure.
The resulting risk assessment profiled hazard events provided information on locations, previous
occurrences, estimated probability of future events, and potential damages and losses and an
assessment of the impact for each hazard on the people and property of Brazos County.
Climate Vulnerability
While climate change will impact the whole Brazos County and participating entities
communities, there are certain communities that are particularly vulnerable to climate change
and will experience disproportionate impacts. These populations include:
• Communities of color.
• Low-income communities.
• Older adults.
• People with disabilities.
While these populations have strong communities who support them in withstanding disasters,
barriers created by marginalization and historic disinvestment may make it more difficult for
these populations to prepare for, recover quickly, or reduce the potential impacts of disasters.
Social vulnerability refers to the potential negative effects on communities caused by external
stresses on human health. Such stresses include natural or human -caused disasters, or disease
outbreaks.
These communities possess multiple risk factors
that qualify them as more vulnerable to the
planning area's changing climate2. Some common
risk factors across these vulnerable population
groups are identified in Figure: 5.1.
Increased
vulnerability to
heat -related,
respiratory, or
vector -borne
illnesses
Lack of
representation in
local government
High exposure to
greenhouse gas
emission sources
and
environmental
pollution
Lack of
financial means
to respond to
environmental
and economic
stresses
Reduced mobility
due to flooding,
severe weather,
extreme heat, and
impacts on
infrastructure
Figure: 5.1 — Common Risk Factors of Populations Vulnerable to Climate Change
Source: CDC'
59
Climate Change and Natural Hazards
Climate change is defined as a long-term hazard which can increase or decrease the risk of other
weather hazards. It directly endangers property due to sea level rise and biological organisms due
to habitat destruction. More information on how climate change is affecting each state can be
found at the website State Climate Summaries3 but is subject to change; there are also other
websites for climate change information.
Global climate change is expected to exacerbate the risks of certain types of natural hazards
impacted through rising sea levels, warmer ocean temperatures, higher humidity, the increased
frequency of stronger storms, and an increase in wind and flood damages due to storm surges.
More information on the global impact can be found at the NASA website4 but is subject to
change; there are also other websites for climate change information.
While sea level rise is a natural phenomenon and has been occurring for several thousand years,
the general scientific consensus is that the rate has increased in the past 200 years, from 0.5
millimeters per year to 2 millimeters per year. More information about the projection of the
rising of the sea levels can be found at the website for the National Oceanic Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA)5 but is subject to change; there are also other websites for climate
change information.
Texas is considered one of the more vulnerable states in the U.S. to both abrupt climate changes
and to the impact of gradual climate changes to the natural and built environments. Mega -
droughts can trigger abrupt changes to regional ecosystems and the water cycle, drastically
increase extreme summer temperature and fire risk, and reduce availability of water resources, as
Texas experienced during 2011-20156. More information on understanding what climate change
can mean for Texas and the planning area can be found through the United States Environmental
Protection Agency on their website7 but is subject to change; there are also other websites for
climate change information.
Paleoclimate records also show that the climate over Texas had large changes between periods of
frequent mega -droughts and the periods of mild droughts that Texas experienced throughout
2023. While the cause of these fluctuations is unclear, it would be wise to anticipate that such
changes could occur again and may even be occurring now6.
Climate change in and of itself is not necessarily a hazard, but it may increase the frequency
and/or intensity of identified hazards over time. Climate change could affect communities in a
variety of ways, but it is currently unclear what extent the impacts will have on the planning
area. It is anticipated that hazard -causing events will fluctuate due to climate change over time.
As new information and new models are developed, a climate change risk assessment may be
enhanced to measure and assess these impacts more accurately.
Climate Change and Infectious Diseases
Increasing global temperatures due to climate change is contributing to the spread of infectious
diseases. Climate change can directly impact infectious disease emergence and reemergence
through effects on pathogen survival, vector survival and reproduction, and their animal
60
reservoirs (i.e., hosts). Milder winters, warmer summers, and fewer days of frost make it easier
for infectious diseases to expand to new geographic areas and infect more people. Additionally,
climate change -related extreme weather events create circumstances where infectious
microorganisms flourish and novel infections emerge8.
Climate change has forced some animal species into new habitats as their natural habitat
disappears, increasing opportunities for contact between humans and animals that can potentially
spread zoonotic diseases (e.g., wildlife carrying the rabies virus, spread of deadly diseases, such
as Ebola, Lassa, Rift Valley fever, and monkeypox)8.
Hazard Analysis
Each of the hazard profiles includes a description of a general vulnerability assessment.
Vulnerability is the total of assets that are subject to damage from a hazard, based on historic
recorded damages.
To better understand how future growth and development in the Brazos County region might
affect hazard vulnerability, it is useful to consider population growth, occupied and vacant land,
the potential for future development in hazard areas, and current planning and growth
management efforts. Hazard vulnerability for all participating entities within Brazos County was
reviewed based on recent development changes that have occurred throughout the planning area.
Focus on Critical Infrastructure
This hazard mitigation plan focuses on critical infrastructure as this is the most cost-effective
way to mitigate effects on assets identified as most important to the community. This
infrastructure includes, but is not limited to, facilities critical to emergency operations, facilities
with government functions, facilities for vulnerable populations, and locations of economic or
cultural value.
For most hazards addressed in this plan, the highest potential for significant damage exists at
critical facilities located in flood -prone areas. Critical facilities in the path of a tornado or nearby
pipelines may also sustain considerable damage.
Priority Risk Index Definitions
The Priority Risk Index is increasingly used as a methodology for quantifying jurisdictional risk
for hazard mitigation action planning purposes, and it can evolve to meet specific community
needs. The index incorporates probability, impact, spatial extent, warning time, and duration
when assessing each hazard, but it does not explicitly integrate a vulnerability and consequence
analysis into its final scoring9.
The definitions on the table below (Table: 5.1) were developed by the Brazos County Hazard
Mitigation Team. Table 5.2 shows the planning entities and their priority risk index.
61
PRI Category
Degree of Risk
Assigned
Weighting
Factor
Level
Criteria
Index
Value
Probability
Unlikely
Less than 1% annual probability
1
30%
Possible
Between 1 and 10% annual probability
1
Likely
Between 10 and 100% annual probability
2
Highly Likely
100% annual probability
3
Impact
(Impact is subdivided
into 3 categories: social
impact, property
impact, and CIKR
impact)
Minor
Very few injuries, if any. Only minor property
damage and minimal disruption to quality of life.
Temporary shutdown of critical facilities.
4
30%
Limited
Minor injuries only. More than 10% of property in
affected area damaged or destroyed. Complete
shutdown of cntical facilities for more than one day.
1
Critical
Multiple deaths/injuries possible. More than 25% of
property in affected areas was damaged or
destroyed. Complete shutdown of critical facilities
for more than one week.
2
Catastrophic
High number of deaths/injuries possible. More than
50% of property in affected area damaged or
destroyed. Complete shutdown of critical facilities
for 30 days or more
3
Spatial extent
Negligible
Less than 1% of area affected
1
20%
Small
Between 1 and 10% of area affected
2
Moderate
Between 10 and 50% of area affected
3
Large
Between 50 and 100% of area affected
4
Warning Time
More hours than 24
Self-explanatory
1
10%
12 to 24 hours
Self-explanatory
2
6 to 24 hours
Self-explanatory
3
Less than 6 hours
Self-explanatory
4
Duration
Less than 6 hours
Self-explanatory
1
10%
Less than 24
hours
Self-explanatory
2
Less than one
week
Self-explanatory
3
More weekthan one
Self-explanatory
4
Table: 5.1 — Priority Risk Index Definitions
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)10
62
Weights
Brazos County
Flood
Drought
Urban and Wildland Fires
Winter Storms
Tornados
Hail
Thunderstorms
Darn Failure
Excessive Heat
Infectious Diseases
City of Bryon
Flood
Drought
Urban and Wildland Fires
Winter Storms
Tornados
Hail
Thunderstorms
Dam Failure
Excessive Heat
Infectious Diseases
City of College Station
Flood
Drought
Urban and Wildland Fires
Winter Storms
Tornados
Hail
Thunderstorms
Dam Failure
Excessive Heat
Infectious Diseases
City of Kurten
Flood
Drought
Urban and Wildland Fires
Winter Storms
Tornados
Hail
Thunderstorms
Dam Failure
Excessive Heat
Infectious Diseases
City of Wixon Valley
Flood
Drought
Urban and Wildland Fires
Winter Storms
Tornados
Hail
Thunderstorms
Dam Failure
Excessive Heat
Infectious Diseases
TAMU
Flood
Drought
Urban and Wildland Fires
Winter Storms
Tornados
Hail
Thunderstorms
Dam Failure
Excessive Heat
Infectious Diseases
PROBABILITY
Probability
0.3
EXTENT
Social Impact
IMPACT
Property
Impact CIKR Impact
Spatial Histoncal Possible Extent of
Extent Human Human Damage
0.2
Duration of
Shutdown
Average
Impact
0.3
P1: Prob 51: Extent HI. Extent H2. Number Pr1: Extent CI1: Shutdown Severity
3 3 2 4 4 2 3.00
3 4 1 1 2 1 1.25
4 1 1 1 2 1 1.25
1 4 2 1 1 1 1.25
1 2 1 3 3 3 250
3 2 1 1 2 1 1.25
4 3 1 1 2 1 125
1 2 1 4 4 4 325
1 4 2 2 1 1 150
1 4 3 3 1 3 300
PI: Prob 151: Extent I HI. Extent H2. Number Pr1: Extent C11: Shutdown ‘3eventy
3 3 2 4 4 2 3.00
3 4 1 1 2 1 125
4 1 1 1 2 1 1.25
1 4 2 1 1 1 1.25
1 2 1 3 3 3 2.50
3 2 1 2 1 1.25
4 3 1 1 2 1 125
1 2 1 4 4 4 325
1 4 2 2 1 1 150
1 4 3 3 1 3 300
P1: Prob 151: Extent I H1. Extent H2. Number Pr1: Extent C11: Shutdown ‘3eventy
3 3 2 4 4 2 300
3 4 1 1 2 1 125
4 1 1 1 2 1 1.25
1 4 2 1 1 1 125
1 2 1 3 3 3 250
3 2 1 1 2 1 125
4 3 1 1 2 1 125
1 2 1 4 4 4 325
1 4 2 2 1 1 150
1 4 3 3 1 3 300
P1: Prob 151: Extent I H1. Extent H2. Number Pr1: Extent C11: Shutdown Severity
3 3 2 4 4 2 3.00
3 4 1 2 1 1.25
4 1 1 2 1 1.25
1 4 2 1 1 1.25
1 2 1 3 3 3 250
3 2 1 1 2 1 1.25
4 3 1 1 2 1 125
0 0 0 0 0 0 000
1 4 2 2 1 1 150
1 4 3 3 1 3 300
P1• Prob 151• Extent I HP Extent H2• Number Pr1. Extent CIF Shutdown Seventy
3 3 2 4 4 2 3.00
3 4 1 1 2 1 1.25
4 1 1 1 2 1 125
1 4 2 1 1 1 1.25
1 2 1 3 3 3 2.50
3 2 1 1 2 125
4 3 1 1 2 1 125
0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00
1 4 2 2 1 1 1.50
1 4 3 3 1 3 3.00
P1: Prob 151: Extent I H1. Extent H2. Number Pr1: Extent C11: Shutdown Severity
3 1 1 4 4 4 325
1 4 1 1 1 1 100
2 1 1 1 1 1 1.00
1 4 1 1 1 1 100
1 3 1 3 3 3 2 50
2 3 1 1 1 1 100
3 4 1 1 1 1 100
1 1 1 4 4 4 325
1 4 1 1 1 1 1.00
1 4 3 3 1 3 3.00
Table: 5.2 - Priority Risk Index by Planning Index
DURATION
Incident
Exposure
Duration of
Exposure
0.1
WARNING
TIME
Warning
Time
0.1
D1. Duration W1. Warning
3
4
1
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
3
1
4
3
4
4
3
3
1
1
D1. Duration I WI. Warning
3
4
1
2
2
3
4
4
3
1
4
3
4
4
3
3
1
1
D1. Duration I WI. Warning
3
4
1
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
3
1
4
3
4
4
3
3
1
1
D1. Duration I WI. Warning
3
4
1
2
1
1
2
0
4
4
3
1
4
3
4
4
3
0
1
1
D1. Duration I W1. Warning
3
4
1
2
1
1
2
0
4
4
3
1
4
3
4
4
3
0
1
1
D1. Duration I WI. Warning
PRI
Priority
Risk
Index
PRI
3
2 575
2 275
1975
195
2 175
2 675
2 275
2 05
2 575
PRI
3
2 575
2 275
1975
195
2 175
2 675
2 275
2 05
2 575
PRI
3
2 575
2 275
1975
195
2 175
2 675
2 275
2 05
2 575
PRI
3
2 575
2 275
1975
195
2 175
2 675
0
2 05
2 575
PRI
3
2 575
2 275
1975
195
2 175
2 675
0
2 05
2 575
PRI
2
4
2
2
1
1
1
4
4
2
1
1
1
4
3
3
1
1
1
2 475
19
13
17
2 25
19
24
1 675
19
2 575
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)10
63
All Values of Infectious Disease Risk Categories are standard amongst Brazos County, City of
Bryan, City of College Station, City of Kurten, City of Wixon Valley, and TAMU.
**Due to the mechanisms, and nature of Infectious Diseases**
Justification — Probability (1)
According to the Brazos County Health District's epidemiology team Dr. Yao Akpalu,
Dr. Ed Davila, the probability of infectious disease outbreak is "1". This suggests that there is a
possibility of an outbreak of infectious disease within the area. Due to climate change, favorable
survival conditions for infectious diseases have increased the odds of their spread13. This
statement underscores the importance of public health surveillance, effective interventions,
vaccination programs, and community awareness13
Justification — Spatial Extent (4)
According to the Brazos County Health District's epidemiology team, the spatial extent
of an infectious disease outbreak is "4". In a study published by the CDC, Smith, and Mennis
(2020) argue that the spread of infectious disease is a spatial process. Since an infectious disease
is not tied down to one physical location, it can become widespread15
Justification — Historical Human/Possible Human (3)
The social impact of an infectious disease, rated as "3" by the Brazos County Health
District's epidemiology team, indicates a significant level of disruption. Both the historical
human and possible human impact is rated at a "3". In a study published by the CDC, Sharma et
al. (2020) highlights the social effects of COVID-1914. According to Sharma et al. (2020),
COVID-19 not only caused physical harm to many individuals, it also further destabilized
individuals who were already struggling with the economic crisis that the infectious disease had
caused14. Unemployment significantly increased, 11.5 million individuals within the first months
of lockdown due to the infectious disease14. Additionally, Sharma et al. (2020) noted a
significant decrease in food insecurity during the pandemic14. These findings highlight the
profound effects of infectious disease on social determinants of health14
Justification — Property Impact (1)/ CIKR Impact (3)
According to the Brazos County Health District's epidemiology team, the property
impact of an infectious disease is "1". This suggests a limited risk of damage to property.
However, the major risk with infectious diseases lies within critical infrastructure. Brazos
County Health District's epidemiology team rated the CIKR (Critical Infrastructure and Key
Resources) impact of an infectious disease as "3". Using COVID-19 as a recent example of a
widespread infectious disease, it is evident that there was a heavy burden on critical
infrastructure. In a study published by the CDC, French (2021), explored the impacts on critical
infrastructure12. French (2021) highlighted that surge in COVID-19 cases resulted in stressed
hospital systems, negatively affected public health and health care, and degraded national critical
systems12. French (2021) explored the effects on ICU care wards, noting that across the nation
ICU wards had exceeded 75% critical capacity12. This burden critically strained the health care
system and disrupted many individuals from receiving care from other conditions12.
Justification — Duration (4) / Warning (1)
64
According to Brazos County Health District's epidemiology team, the duration of an
infectious disease is rated at "4". According to U.S. Department of Defense (2023), the incidence
of exposure lasted far more than a week16. The Brazos County Health District's epidemiology
team designated the warning to be "1". According to AJMC Staff (2021) there was a significant
warning period where the WHO (World Health Organization) declared the appearance of the
infectious disease and the subsequent emergence of cases within the United States".
65
References - Section 5
1. National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA). Data. httvs://www.ncei.noaa.zov/
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Populations and Vulnerabilities.
httvs: //www cdc. zov/nceh/tracking/tonics/Populations Vulnerabilities. htm
3. NCICS. State Climate Summaries. httvs://statesummaries.ncics.orr/
4. NASA. Understanding Our Planet. Global Climate Change. httvs://climate.nasa.zov/
5. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Sea Level Rising. httvs://oceanservice.noaa.gov/
6. Water Data for Texas. Texas Reservoirs. httvs://www.waterdatafortexas.org/reservoirs/statewide
7. US Environmental Protection Agency. Regulations. httvs://www.eva.zov/
8. World Health Organization. Climate Change. httvs://wwwwho.int/health-tonics/climate-chanze#tab=tab 1
9. Harris, J., Bartlett, G., Joyner, T.., Hart, M, & Tollefson, W. (2021). Modification of the Priority Risk Index: Adapting
to Emergency Management Accreditation Program standards for institutes of higher learning hazard mitigation plans.
Journal of emergency management (Weston, Mass.), 19(2), 165-171. httvs://doi.orr/10.5055/iem.0568
10. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httvs://bcdem.orz/emerzencv/vlans
11. AJMC Staff. (2021, January 1). A Timeline of COVID-19 Developments in 2020. Retrieved from AJMC website:
httvs: //www aimc. com/view/a-timeline-of-covid 19-develovments-in-2020.
12. French, G. (2021). Impact of Hospital Strain on Excess Deaths During the COVID-19 Pandemic - United States, July
2020-July 2021. MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 70(46). https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwrmm7046a5
13. Healthy People 2030. (2020). Social determinants of health. Retrieved from Healthy People 2030 website:
httvs: //health. zov/healthvveovle/vriori tv-areas/social-determinants-health.
14. Sharma, S. V, Chuang, R.-J., Rushing, M., Naylor, B., Ranjit, N., Pomeroy, M., & Markham, C. (2020). Social
Determinants of Health -Related Needs During GOVID-19 Among Low -Income Households with Children. Preventing
Chronic Disease, 17(17). httvs://doi.or2/10.5888/vcd17.200322.
15. Smith, C. D., & Mennis, J (2020). Incorporating Geographic Information Science and Technology in Response to the
COVID-19 Pandemic. Preventing Chronic Disease, 17(Volume 17). https://doi.org/10.5888/pcd17.200246
16. U.S. Department of Defense. (2023, April 19). Coronavirus: Timeline. Retrieved from U.S. Department of Defense
website: httvs://www.defense.zov/Svotlights/Coronavirus-DOD-Resvonse/Timelinet
66
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67
Section 6 — Flood
Hazard Description
Brazos County is in a state particularly vulnerable to flooding due to
several factors: miles of the Gulf of Mexico coastline; the proximity to
the Pacific Ocean off the west coast of Mexico; the geographical
location near the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and Arizona; the high -
altitude jet stream; and the nearness to the unique West Texas "dry
line", a shifting invisible atmospheric separation of dry desert air from
the moist Gulf airs.
These factors create a breeding ground for the big storms of spring and
fall that spawn tornadoes and suck up Gulf or Pacific moisture that
feed the heavy rains that cause flash flooding. All these geographic
factors can cause Texas to experience extensive storms. Flooding takes
many forms in the planning areal.
Flooding occurs in seasonal patterns when warm, moist air collides
with cool, dry air. The most common time for flooding is in the spring
(April through June) and the fall (October through December). Flash,
ravine, and urban flooding events can cause substantial impacts to the
planning area including loss of life, injuries, temporary or permanent
loss of critical infrastructure, and personal property damage.
Types of Flooding
Flash Flooding
Flash flooding is caused by slow -moving thunderstorms, repeated
storms in one area, or heavy rains caused by tornados or hurricanes.
Flooding can occur within minutes to hours of excessive rainfall. Often
there are no warnings for flash floods2.
Riverine Flooding
Riverine flooding is a natural occurrence. It is the overbank flooding of
rivers, streams, and creeks; typically occurring when large scale
weather systems generate prolonged rainfall. Some riverine flooding
occurs because of winter and spring runoff, and the river, creek, and
stream basins fill too quickly2.
Urban Flooding
Urban flooding occurs in areas that were once fields or woodlands that are now converted into
roadways, housing developments, parking lots, and buildings. These conversions force the
natural hydraulic systems within a basin to fail, allowing runoff two to six times more than
QUICK FACTS
FEMA Repetitive Loss List
Brazos County: 4
Bryan: 37
College Station: 3
Wixon Valley: 0
Kurten: 0
FEMA Severe Repetitive Loss
List
Brazos County: 0
Bryan: 3
College Station: 0
Wixon Valley: 0
Kurten: 0
Critical Facilities and
Infrastructure at Risk in Brazos
County
Total: 298
Inside 100-year flood plain: 129
Susceptible to flooding: 43.29%
Deadliest Flooding Event in
Brazos County:
October 17, 1998 — 1 death
Costliest Flooding Events in
Brazos County:
Aug. 2017: $15m
Oct. 1994: $5m
Oct. 1998: $2.5m
May 2004: $250k
May 2007: $130k
Feb. 2012: $100k
May 2016: $100k
Source: Brazos County
CEOC 12
68
natural terrain. Urban flooding can cause roadways to become swift moving rivers and
underground parking garages and underpasses to become inundated and filled with water2.
Hazardous Areas
Areas most prone to flooding are determined through analysis of the following:
• Analysis of river flow, storm tide, and rainfall records.
• Floodplain, stream, and river topography and physiography.
• Hydrologic and hydraulic analysis.
FEMA maintains Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)3 which identify hazardous areas including
Special Flood Hazard Areas (areas within the 100-year flood plain) and Moderate Flood Hazard
Areas (areas within the 500-year flood plain)3. The location of flood hazard areas for Brazos
County and participating entities are shown in Figure: 6.1. The following map identifies flood
zones throughout the planning area with potential for loss of life and/or property damage.
Areas along the Brazos River on the west side of the county and along the Navasota River on the
east side of the county are the most vulnerable to riverine flooding events3.
A property's vulnerability to a flood depends on its location and proximity to the floodplain3.
Structures that lie along banks of a waterway are the most vulnerable and are often repetitive loss
structures. The County and all participating entities encourage development outside of the
floodplain, and the impact for flood for the entire planning area is limited as facilities and
services would be shut down for 24 hours or less, depending on the scale of the storm.
69
Brazos County FEMA _t_
Flood Hazard Designations
Figure: 6.1 — Flooding Potential for Planning Area
Source: FEMA3
70
Flood Zones
(1% Chance)
Brazos 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
2ft-3ft
3ft-oft
�4ft-5ft
> 5.ft
Navasota 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
1ft - 2ft
2ft - 3ft
3ft-4ft
�4ft-5ft
> 5ft
Creek
Roads
TAMU
Jurisdictions
Q Bryan
Q College Station
Q Kurten
Q Wixon Valley
County
Figure 6.2- Brazos County 1% Flood Zones to include the cities of Bryan, College Station and TAMU Source:
FEMA
71
Flood Zones
(1% Chance)
Brazos 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
2ft-3ft
3ft-oft
�4ft-5ft
> 5.ft
Navasota 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
2ft - 3ft
3ft-4ft
�4ft-5ft
> 5ft
Creek
Roads
Jurisdictions
Q Bryan
Q Kurten
Q Wixon Valley
County
I 1
Figure 6.3 — Brazos County 1% Flood Zones to include the cities of Kurten and Wixon Valley Source: FEMA
72
Figure 6.4- Brazos County 1% Flood Zones to include College Station
Flood Zones
(1% Chance)
Brazos 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
2ft - 3ft
3ft - 4ft
4ft - 5ft
> 5.ft
Navasota 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
Olft -2ft
I J 2ft - 3ft
I J3ft -4ft
I 4ft-5ft
> 5ft
- Creek
- Roads
0 TAMU
Jurisdictions
Q Bryan
0 College Station
County
I I
I I
I I
Source: FEMA
73
Figure 6.5- Brazos County 1% Flood Zones Sothern Brazos County
Flood Zones
(1% Chance)
Brazos 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
2ft - 3ft
3ft - 4ft
4ft - 5ft
> 5.ft
Navasota 1PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
Olft -2ft
I J 2ft - 3ft
I J 3ft - 4ft
I 4ft-5ft
> 5ft
- Creek
- Roads
0 TAMU
Jurisdictions
Q College Station
0 County
I I
I I
Source: FEMA
74
Flood Zones
(0.2% Chance)
Brazos 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= 1ft
lft - 2ft
I I2ft -3ft
3ft - 4ft
4ft - 5ft
IM > 5ft
Navasota 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft-2ft
2ft - 3ft
3ft - 4ft
4ft - 5ft
> 5ft
- Creek
- Roads
TAMU
Jurisdictions
Q Bryan
0 College Station
Q Kurten
Q Wixon Valley
0 County
Figure 6.6- Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones to include the cities of Bryan, College Station and TAMU
Source: FEMA
75
Flood Zones
(0.2% Chance)
Brazos 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
I 12ft -3ft
3ft-oft
= 4ft - 5ft
> 5ft
Navasota 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
2ft - 3ft
3ft-4ft
= 4ft - 5ft
> 5ft
Creek
Roads
Jurisdictions
Q Bryan
Q Kurten
Q Wixon Valley
County
1 1
Figure 6.7 — Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones to include the cities of Kurten and Wixon Valley Source: FEMA
76
Figure 6.8- Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones to include College Station
Flood Zones
(0.2% Chance)
Brazos 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<=1ft
lft - 2ft
I I2ft -aft
3ft-4ft
4ft - 5ft
> 5ft
Navasota 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
I J 2ft - 3ft
I J3ft-4ft
I 4ft-5ft
> 5ft
- Creek
- Roads
0 TAMU
Jurisdictions
Q Bryan
0 College Station
County
I I
I I
I I
Source: FEMA
77
Flood Zones
(0.2% Chance)
Brazos 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<=1ft
lft - 2ft
1 12ft -3ft
3ft-4ft
4ft - 5ft
> 5ft
Navasota 0_2PCT Depth
Band 1 (Gray)
<= lft
lft - 2ft
1 J 2ft - 3ft
I J 3ft - 4ft
I 4ft-5ft
> 5ft
- Creek
- Roads
0 TAMU
Jurisdictions
Q College Station
0 County
I I
I I
Figure 6.9- Brazos County 0.2% Flood Zones Sothern Brazos County
Source: FEMA
Major flooding and flash flooding events can have a substantial severity of impact to Brazos
County and the participating entities. They can cause multiple deaths, shut down facilities for
thirty days or more, and cause more than fifty percent of affected properties to be destroyed or
suffer major damage3. The frequency of occurrence of flooding in the planning area is likely.
Brazos County and participating entities have infrastructure and critical facilities that are
vulnerable to floods. There are also residential structures that are vulnerable to flooding, and
mitigation actions regarding those structures are addressed in Section 16 of this plan.
78
Previous Occurrences
From January 1, 1994, through 2017, Brazos County has experienced more than 40 flooding
incidents including flash flooding. A complete list of these events, as sourced from the National
Weather Service4, is in Table: 6.1.
Type
Flash flooding
Flash flooding/
flood
Location
Date
Brazos 10/16/1994
Brazos
Flash flood Bryan/ College
Station
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flooding, riverine
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flooding, riverine
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Flash flood
Countywide
North Portion
College Station
College Station
County
College Station
Countywide
County
Countywide
Countywide
Countywide
Countywide
Countywide
Bryan
Countywide
Countywide
Bryan
College Station
12/15/1994
09/21/1995
02/20/1997
10/13/1997
01/06/1998
10/17/1998
10/17/1998
10/18/1998
10/18/1998
11/12/1998
11/02/2000
11/03/2000
11/03/2000
11/03/2000
09/09/2001
07/14/2002
11/04/2002
02/20/2003
05/13/2004
06/15/2004
Bryan 06/30/2004
Countywide 11/22/2004
Deaths
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0 0
Property Damage
($)
$5.0M
50K
5K 0
5K 0
5K 0
5K 0
5K 0
0 0
2K 0
15K 0
0 0
1.0M 0
25K 0
25K 0
1.0M 0
50K 0
20K 0
95K 0
8K 0
250K 0
55K 0
15K 0
0 0
Crop Damage
($)
$50K
5K
79
Flash flood
Bryan
05/01/2007
0
0
130K
0
Flash flood
Countywide
12/15/2007
0
0
5K
0
Flash flood
Bryan
04/25/2009
0
0
1K
0
Flash flood
Bryan
06/09/2010
0
0
1K
0
Flash flood
College Station
06/09/2010
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
College Station
06/09/2010
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
College Station
06/09/2010
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
College Station
06/09/2010
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
College Station
02/03/2012
0
0
100K
0
Flash flood
Bryan (Edge)
02/03/2012
0
0
2K
2K
Flash flood
Bryan
05/09/2013
0
0
10K
0
Flash flood
College Station
09/28/2013
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
Bryan
06/25/2014
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
College Station
07/17/2014
0
0
50K
0
Flash flood
Bryan
09/12/2014
0
0
3K
0
Flash flood
Bryan
05/25/2015
0
0
5K
0
Flash flood
Bryan
10/24/2015
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
College Station
12/27/2015
0
0
0
0
Flash flood
County Wide
05/26/2016
0
0
100K
0
Flood
County Wide
08/24/2017-
08/28/2017
0
0
TBD
0
Table 6.1 — Flooding Incidents in Brazos County
Source: National Weather Service4
Future Probability
Texas consistently outranks other states in deaths and damage from floods with more than 200
flood -related deaths between 2010 and 2022. From 2012 to 2022, Texas experienced over 500
flash floods as well as three 100-year floods4.
Based on recorded historical occurrences and extent within the Brazos County planning area,
including all participating entities, flooding is highly likely, and an incident will likely occur
within the next year. According to Risk Factor, 4,981 properties in Brazos County are likely to be
severely affected by flooding over the next 30 years'.
Climate Change
Projections for two long-term climate scenarios were calculated using Climate Explorer data6 for
number of days with greater than 3 inches of precipitation. One scenario describes a future in
which humans stop increasing harmful emissions by 2040 and then continue to reduce emissions
80
through the end of the century (Lower Emissions)7. The second scenario describes a future in
which harmful emissions continue to increase through the end of the century (Higher
Emissions)7. Another source was examined to determine the impacts of climate change on river
flooding. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)8 developed an interactive map that
examines the historical magnitude and frequency of river flooding in the U.S. since 1965 and
climate change indicators during the same time. The data is consistent with the Climate Explorer
data in that it shows little to no change in magnitude and frequency for river flooding8.
However, climate change could influence some or all the factors that contribute to erosion.
Several hazards were examined for effects of climate change in other hazard chapters. These
hazards each play a unique role in the riverine erosion process. For example, extended periods of
drought can cause vegetation root density to decrease and trees to die off during a dry season
making the soil more susceptible to erosion and the trees more vulnerable to falling in the stream
and creating logjams when a flood eventually comes. With multiple factors influencing riverine
erosion to consider, climate change could increase risks of riverine erosion for the Planning Area
for the next 80 years'.
Infectious Disease and Risk
Floodwater contains many things that may harm health. We don't know exactly what is in
floodwater at any given point in time10. Floodwater can contain:
• Downed power lines.
• Human and livestock waste.
• Household, medical, and industrial hazardous waste (chemical, biological, and
radiological).
• Coal ash waste that can contain carcinogenic compounds such as arsenic, chromium, and
mercury.
• Other germs and contaminants that can lead to illness.
• Physical objects such as lumber, vehicles, and debris.
• Wild or stray animals such as rodents and snakes can be forced into non -flooded areas.
Exposure to contaminated floodwater can cause:
• Wound infections
• Skin rash
• Gastrointestinal illness
• Tetanus
• Leptospirosis
• Melioidosis (along the Gulf Coast)
It is important to protect yourself from exposure to floodwater regardless of the source of
contamination. The best way to protect yourself is to stay out of the water10
If you come in contact with floodwater:
81
• Wash the area with soap and clean water as soon as possible. If you don't have soap or
water, use alcohol -based wipes or sanitizer.
• Take care of wounds and seek medical attention if necessary.
• Wash clothes contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent before
reusing them.
If you must enter floodwater, wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles'°
Other hazards that can be introduced during flooding and the receding of floodwater are:
• Unsafe food —Floodwaters contain disease -causing bacteria, dirt, oil, human and animal
waste, and farm and industrial chemicals. Their contact with food items, including food
crops in agricultural lands, can make that food unsafe to eat. Refrigerated and frozen
foods are affected during power outages caused by flooding. Foods in cardboard, plastic
bags, jars, bottles, and paper packaging may be unhygienic with mold contamination10
• Contaminated drinking and washing water and poor sanitation —Flooding impairs clean
water sources with pollutants. The pollutants also saturate into the groundwater. Flooded
wastewater treatment plants can be overloaded, resulting in backflows of raw sewage.
Private wells can be contaminated by floodwater. Private sewage disposal systems can
become a cause of infection if they overflow10
• Mosquitoes and animals —Floods provide new breeding grounds for mosquitoes in wet
areas and stagnant pools. The public should dispose of dead animals that can carry
viruses and diseases only in accordance with guidelines issued by local animal control
authorities. Leptospirosis—a bacterial disease associated predominantly with rats (but
can be often found in standing water) —often accompanies floods in every country,
although the risk is low in industrialized regions unless cuts or wounds have direct
contact with disease -contaminated flood waters or animals10
• Mental stress and fatigue —People who live through a devastating flood can experience
long-term psychological impact. The expense and effort required to repair flood -damaged
homes places severe financial and psychological burdens on the people affected. Post -
flood recovery can cause anxiety, anger, depression, lethargy, hyperactivity, and
sleeplessness. There is also a long-term concern among the affected that their homes
could be flooded again in the future10
Current loss estimation models such as Hazus are not equipped to measure public health impacts
such as these. Hazus is a nationally standardized risk modeling methodology.14 Hazus identifies
areas with high risk for natural hazards and estimates physical, economic, and social impacts of
earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and tsunamis.14 The Hazus Program is managed by FEMA.14
The best preparation for these effects includes awareness that they can occur, education of the
public on prevention, and planning to deal with them during responses to flood events10
• Poor hygiene.
• Overcrowding in shelters.
82
Possible Disease Outbreaks
Waterborne diseases:
Norovirus
Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Anyone can get infected
and sick with norovirus. Norovirus is sometimes called the "stomach flu" or "stomach bug".
However, norovirus illness is not related to the flu, which is caused by influenza virus10
Rotavirus
Rotavirus is a contagious gastrointestinal (GI) infection that causes inflammation of the stomach
and intestines (gastroenteritis). This can lead to severe diarrhea and vomiting, especially in
young children. Kids tend to get rotavirus during the winter and spring. It spreads when they
come in contact with the poop (stool) of someone who has it and then touch their own mouth10
Hepatitis A and E
Hepatitis A accounts for 20 percent to 25 percent of hepatitis cases in developed countries.
Hepatitis A is usually transmitted through the fecal -oral route, meaning a person somehow
ingests contaminated feces from an infected person. If an infected person did not wash his or her
hands properly after using the bathroom, the disease may spread from the person's hands. The
incubation period is two to six weeks, during which the infected individual is contagious.
Another cause of hepatitis A is eating shellfish harvested from contaminated water10
Hepatitis E, also called enteric hepatitis (enteric means related to the intestines), is similar to
hepatitis A, and more prevalent in Asia and Africa. It is also transmitted through the fecal -oral
route. It is generally not fatal, though it is more serious in women during pregnancy and can
cause fetal complications. Most patients with hepatitis E recover completely'°
The prognosis for hepatitis A patients is excellent with self-limiting courses, and recovery is
complete. About 85 percent of people with hepatitis A recover within three months, and almost
all recover within six months10
When hearing about hepatitis A, many people think about contaminated food and water.
However, in the United States, hepatitis A is more commonly spread from person to person15
Since March 2017, CDC's Division of Viral Hepatitis (DVH) has been assisting multiple state
and local health departments with hepatitis A outbreaks, spread through person -to -person
contact15. The following groups are at highest risk for acquiring HAV infection or developing
serious complications from HAV infection in these outbreaks and should be offered the hepatitis
A vaccine in order to prevent or control an outbreak15:
• People who use drugs (injection or non -injection).
• People experiencing unstable housing or homelessness.
83
• Men who have sex with men (MSM).
• People who are currently or were recently incarcerated.
• People with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C.
Cholera
Cholera is an acute, diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the toxigenic
bacterium Vibrio cholerae. An estimated 1.3 to 4 million people around the world get cholera
each year and 21,000 to 143,000 people die from it. People who get cholera often have mild
symptoms or no symptoms, but cholera can be severe. Approximately 1 in 10 people who get
sick with cholera will develop severe symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, and leg
cramps. In these people, rapid loss of body fluids leads to dehydration and shock. Without
treatment, death can occur within hours10
Cholera bacterium is usually found in water or in foods that have been contaminated by feces
(poop) from a person infected with cholera bacteria. Cholera is most likely to occur and spread in
places with inadequate water treatment, poor sanitation, and inadequate hygiene10
Cholera bacteria can also live in the environment in brackish rivers and coastal waters. Shellfish
eaten raw have been a source of infection. Rarely, people in the U.S. have contracted cholera
after eating raw or undercooked shellfish from the Gulf of Mexicolo
Typhoid
Typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever are similar diseases caused by bacteria. Salmonella Typhi
bacteria causes typhoid fever. Salmonella Paratyphi bacteria causes paratyphoid fever'°
People infected with these bacteria can spread them to others. This typically happens when an
infected person uses the bathroom and does not wash their hands. The bacteria can stay in their
hands and contaminate everything that the person touches, including food and drinkslo
Typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever cause similar symptoms. People with these diseases usually
have a fever that can be as high as 103 to 104°F (39 to 40°C). They also may have weakness,
stomach pain, headache, diarrhea or constipation, cough, and loss of appetite. Some people have
a rash of flat, rose-colored spots. Internal bleeding and death can occur but are rare10
Choose food and drinks carefully1o:
• Only eat foods that are cooked and served hot.
• Avoid food that has been sitting on a buffet.
• Eat raw fruits and vegetables only if you have washed them in clean water or peeled
them.
• Only drink beverages from factory -sealed containers.
• Avoid ice because it may have been made from unsafe water.
• Only drink pasteurized milk.
84
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after using the
bathroom and before eating.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol -based hand sanitizer with at
least 60% alcohol.
• Keep your hands away from your face and mouth.
Vector -borne diseases:
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is an epidemic -prone mosquito -borne vaccine preventable disease that is
transmitted to humans by the bites of infected mosquitoes. Yellow fever is caused by an
arbovirus (a virus transmitted by vectors such mosquitoes, ticks, or other arthropods) transmitted
to humans by the bites of infected Aedes and Haemagogus mosquitoes9.
These day -biting mosquitoes breed around houses (domestic), in forests or jungles (sylvatic), or
in both habitats (semi -domestic). Yellow fever is a high -impact high -threat disease, with risk of
international spread, which represents a potential threat to global health security9.
The incubation period for yellow fever is 3 to 6 days. Many people do not experience symptoms.
Common symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headache, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting.
In most cases, symptoms disappear after 3 to 4 days9.
A small percentage of patients enter a second, more toxic phase within 24 hours of recovering
from initial symptoms. High fever returns and several body systems are affected, usually the
liver and the kidneys. In this phase, people are likely to develop jaundice (yellowing of the skin
and eyes, hence the name yellow fever), dark urine, and abdominal pain with vomiting. Bleeding
can occur from the mouth, nose, eyes, or stomach. Half of the patients who enter the toxic phase
die within 7-10 days9.
Climate change has long been seen to increase the burden of mosquito -borne diseases such as
dengue and malaria. Warmer, wetter weather provides mosquitoes with larger habitats, and
enables them to infest places they were previously unable to thrive in. There is already strong
evidence that climate change will alter the habitat and global spread of Aedes aegypti, which will
inevitably affect the way it transmits the yellow fever virus16
West Nile Fever
West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito -borne disease in the continental United
States. It is most spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases of WNV occur
during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. There are no
vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Fortunately, most people infected
with WNV do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other
symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. You
can reduce your risk of WNV by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long
pants to prevent mosquito bites10
85
No symptoms in most people. Most people (8 out of 10) infected with West Nile virus do not
develop any symptoms. Febrile illness (fever) in some people. About 1 in 5 people who are
infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains,
vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with febrile illness due to West Nile virus recover
completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. Serious symptoms in a few
people. About 1 in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness affecting the central
nervous system such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of
the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord). Symptoms of severe illness include high
fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle
weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis'°
Severe illness can occur in people of any age; however, people over 60 years of age are at greater
risk for severe illness if they are infected (1 in 50 people). People with certain medical
conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and people who have received
organ transplants, are also at greater risk. Recovery from severe illness might take several weeks
or months. Some effects to the central nervous system might be permanent. About 1 out of 10
people who develop severe illness affecting the central nervous system diem.
Dengue
Dengue viruses are spread to people through the bite of an infected Aedes species (Ae. aegypti or
Ae. albopictus) mosquito Almost half of the world's population, about 4 billion people, live in
areas with a risk of dengue. Dengue is often a leading cause of illness in areas with risk10
About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. For people who get sick with
dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe. Severe dengue can be life -threatening within a few
hours and often requires care at a hospital. The most common symptom of dengue is fever with
any of the following: Nausea, Vomiting, Rash, Aches, and pains (eye pain, typically behind the
eyes, muscle, joint, or bone pain). Symptoms of dengue typically last 2-7 days. Most people will
recover after about a weeklo
Respiratory diseases:
Influenza
Associated risks between flooding and increased influenza diagnoses were geographically
specific, with the greatest risk in the most densely populated areas. Flu is a contagious
respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the
lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Influenza (flu) can cause
mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly.
People who have flu often feel some or all these symptoms1o:
• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills.
• Cough.
• Sore throat.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Muscle or body aches.
86
• Headaches.
• Fatigue (tiredness).
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children
than adults.
*It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild,
cold -like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Infants and
older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization'°
People infected with RSV usually show symptoms within 4 to 6 days after getting infected.
Symptoms of RSV infection usually include:
• Runny nose.
• Decrease in appetite.
• Coughing.
• Sneezing.
• Fever.
• Wheezing.
**These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once. In very young infants with RSV,
the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties'°
COVID-19
COVID-19, also called coronavirus disease 2019, is a sickness caused by a virus called severe
acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV 2). This virus is a coronavirus.
Coronavirus is a family of viruses that can cause illnesses such as the common cold, severe acute
respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Many people with
COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms and can recover on their own. But COVID-19 can
serious illness and lead to death in some people. People at higher risk include older adults, and
the risk increases with age. Also at higher risk for serious illness are people with existing medical
conditions. Symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may appear 2 to 14 days after
exposure. This time after exposure and before having symptoms is called the incubation period.
You can still spread COVID-19 before you have symptoms. This is called presymptomatic
transmission. Common symptoms can includelo:
• Fever.
• Cough.
• Tiredness.
• Early symptoms of COVID-19 may include a loss of taste or smell.
87
Other symptoms may include i o:
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
• Muscle aches.
• Chills.
• Sore throat.
• Runny nose.
• Headache.
• Chest pain.
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis).
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Rash.
**This list isn't complete. Children have similar symptoms to adults and generally have mild
illness. The severity of COVID-19 symptoms can range from very mild to severe. Some people
may have only a few symptoms. Some people may have no symptoms at all but can still spread
it. This is called asymptomatic transmission10
Other Diseases:
Tetanus
Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria called Clostridium tetani. When these bacteria enter
the body, they produce a toxin that causes painful muscle contractions. Another name for tetanus
is "lockjaw". It often causes a person's neck and jaw muscles to lock, making it hard to open the
mouth or swallow10
The spores can get into someone's body through broken skin, usually through injuries. Tetanus
bacteria are more likely to infect certain breaks in the skin. These includeto:
• Wounds contaminated with dirt, feces (poop), or saliva (spit).
• Puncture wounds (wounds caused by an object, like a nail or needle, breaking the skin).
• Burns.
• Crush injuries (injury to a body part due to pressure from another object or being
squeezed between two heavy objects).
• Injuries with dead tissue.
• Insect bites.
Public Health Response Activities Before, During, and After Floods":
• Vector control programs in flood prone areas.
• Vaccination programs for preventable diseases in areas susceptible to and other natural
disasters
88
• Rapid risk assessment and data collection to identify interventions needed.
• Designation of evacuation sites for healthcare facilities and Long -Term Care Facilities
affected by flooding.
• Provision of shelters, nutrition, water, hygiene, and sanitation facilities.
• Provision of disease prevention and control measures including insecticide sprays and
repellents, masks, hand sanitizers.
• Protective clothing against insect bites.
Water -borne and respiratory infections
Acute
0-7 days
Rodent -borne
Mid-term
1-4 weeks
Vector -borne
long-term
>4weeks
Figure: 6.2 — Incubation Periods for Waterborne, Respiratory, Rodent, and Vector borne Illnesses Source: WHO9
Risk of Disease Outbreaks in Flood Disasters.
For flooding, BCHD has access to supplies of mosquito larvicide dunks that can be placed
throughout the community by BCHD that can help control the population of mosquitoes"
In the days leading up to a hurricane, tornado, or flood, BCHD can do a landing rate count and
then after the event do the same study". The Landing Rate Count (LRC) is a measurement of the
density of adult mosquitoes attempting to land on a person over a short period of time (i.e., 1
minute)". This is a way to quantify the effect of the flood on the mosquito population and to
decide if treatment is needed. This is all accomplished through grants as well as state and federal
funds, as they become available after a disaster"
Potential Damages and Losses
Potential annualized losses and damages are estimated by multiplying the exposed values by the
probability of a 100-year flood event. The following Table: 6.2, currently shows the potential
impacts of riverine flooding on critical facilities and infrastructure within the planning area.
Entity Total Exposure
Annualized
Loss
(Residential)
Annualized Annualized Total
Loss Loss Annualized
(Commercial) (Industrial) Loss*
89
Brazos County $376,450 $1,395,480 $172,623 $26,231 $1,625,501
Bryan $922,068 $1,522,547 $2,211,071 $216,362 $3,981,457
College Station $1,308,451 $3,693,291 $1,830,204 $125,288 $5,649,848
Wixon Valley $1,017 $3,671 $0 $0 $4,392
Kurten $4,555 $19,402 $0 $0 $19,667
Table: 6.2 - Probability of 100-Year Flood Cost *Rounded to the nearest dollar* Source: Brazos County HMAP
(2019-2024)12
The following Table: 6.3 shows the potential wet exposure in the event of a 100-year riverine
flood:
Bryan College Station
Wixon
Valley
Brazos
Kurten County
Total*
Residential Parcels 1858 692 0 18 3,484
Residential Value $441,289 $274,347 0 $4,329 $1.49m
Rental Parcels 113 77 0 0 192
Rental Value $101,544 $754,779 0 0 $858,886
Commercial Parcels 287 191 0 0 508
Commercial Value $631,620 $601,215 0 0 $1.3m
Industrial Parcels 16 2 0 0 24
Industrial Value $58,165 $34,217 0 0 $104,041
Table: 6.3 -100-Year Riverine Flood Cost *Includes Navasota and unincorporated areas* Source: Brazos County HMAP
(2019-2024)12
Extent
The severity of a flood event is determined by a combination of several factors including stream
and river basin topography and physiography; precipitation and weather patterns; recent soil
moisture conditions; and degree of vegetative clearing and a dense surface. Typically, floods are
long-term events that may last for several days3.
Determining the intensity and magnitude of a flood event is dependent upon the flood zone and
location of the flood hazard area in addition to depths of flood waters. The extent of flood
damage can be expected to be more damaging in the areas that will spread across a base flood.
FEMA categorizes areas on the terrain according to how the area will spread flood water. Flood
zones are the categories that are mapped on Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Table 6.4 provides a
description of FEMA flood zones and the flood impact in terms of severity or potential harm.
Flood Zones A, AE and X are the only hazard areas mapped in the region. Figures 6.1 through
90
Intensity
Zone
Description
HIGH
ZONE A
Areas with a one percent annual chance of flooding and a 26 percent chance of flooding
over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Because detailed analyses are not performed for such
areas, no depths or base flood elevations are shown within these zones.
ZONE Al- 30
These are known as numbered A Zones (e.g., A7 or A14). This is the base floodplain
where it shows a Base Flood Elevation (BFE) (old format).
ZONE AE
The base floodplain where base flood elevations are provided. AE Zones are now used on
the new format FIRMs instead ofAl-A30 Zones.
ZONE AO
River or stream flood hazard areas and areas with a one percent or greater chance of
shallow flooding each year, usually in the form of sheet flow, with an average depth
ranging from one to three feet. These areas have a 26 percent chance of flooding over the
life of a 30-year mortgage. Average flood depths derived from detailed analyses are
shown within these zones.
ZONE Allderived
Areas with a one percent annual chance of shallow flooding, usually in the form of a
pond, with an average depth ranging from one to three feet. These areas have a 26
percent chance of flooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Base flood elevations
from detailed analyses are shown at selected intervals within these zones.
ZONE A99
Areas with a one percent annual chance of flooding will be protected by a federal flood
control system where construction has reached specified legal requirements. No depths or
base flood elevations are shown within these zones.
ZONE AR
Areas with a temporarily increased flood risk due to the building or restoration of a flood
control system (such as a levee or a dam). Mandatory flood insurance purchase
requirements will apply, but rates will not exceed the rates for unnumbered A zones if the
structure is built or restored in compliance with Zone AR floodplain management
regulations.
HIGH
COASTAL
ZONE VE, V1-30
Coastal areas with a 1% or greater chance of flooding and an additional hazard associated
with storm waves. These areas have a 26 percent chance of flooding over the life of a 30-
year mortgage. No base flood elevations are shown within these zones.
MODERATE
TO LOW
ZONE X 500
An area inundated by 500-year flooding; an area inundated by 100-year flooding with
average depths of less than one foot or with drainage areas less than one square mile; or
an area protected by levees from 100-year flooding.
6.4 should be read in conjunction with the extent for flooding to determine the intensity of a
potential flood event3.
Flood maps show how likely it is for an area to flood. Any place with a 1% chance or higher
chance of experiencing a flood each year is considered to have a high risk. Those areas have at
least a one -in -four chance of flooding during a 30-year period3.
Table: 6.4 - Flood Zone Designators - FEMA flood zones and the flood impact'.
91
Zone A is interchangeably referred to as the 100-year flood, the one percent -annual chance flood,
the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), or more commonly, the base flood. This is the area that
will convey the base flood and constitutes a threat to the planning area. The impact from a flood
event can be more damaging in areas that will spread across a base flood.
Structures built in the SFHA are subject to damage by rising waters and floating debris. Moving
flood water exerts pressure on everything in its path and causes erosion of soil and solid objects.
Utility systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, fuel, electrical systems, sewage
maintenance systems and water systems, if not elevated above base flood elevation, may also be
damaged.
The intensity and magnitude of a flood event is also determined by the depth of flood water.
This year (2024) 9.99% of properties in Brazos County have a risk of flooding. In 30 years,
9.98% of properties in Brazos County will have flooding5. Figure: 6.3 below shows a
comparison for the USA, Texas, Port Arthur, and Brazos County. In addition to property damage,
flooding can also cut off access to utilities, emergency services, transportation, and may impact
the overall economic well-being of an area. Overall, Brazos County has a minor -moderate risk of
flooding over the next 30 years, which means flooding is likely to impact day-to-day life within
the community. This is based on the level of risk the properties face rather than the proportion of
properties with risks.
Percent of properties at risk from flooding
I20%
99_6%
I00%
80%
99-5% 99.6%
t Port Arthur
60% + Texas
t USA
40% -r Brazos County
2 S_8% 25.8% 2 5.8%
20% r — a
9.9% 9.8% 9.8%
0%
This year In 15 years In 30 years
Figure: 6.3 — Extent for current and future flooding events in Brazos County 5.
A flood exposure analysis was performed to guide the Lower Brazos Regional Flood Plan by
establishing a consistent measure of flood hazard within the basin. The analysis considered
vulnerability, land use, estimated precipitation data, and constructed drainage -related
infrastructure18. Datasets of hydrologic and hydraulic modeling and flood risk mapping from
various sources were collected and compiled together to create a comprehensive, continuous set
of the best available existing flood risk data for the Lower Brazos Planning Region. The
compiled mapping included both the 1 percent and 0.2 percent annual chance event (ACE)
storms. The sources of the flood risk datasets included the United States Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE), United States Geological Survey (USGS), Federal Emergency Management
92
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. 1
s 1 foot
> 1 to 2 feet
Agency (FEMA), and the Texas Water Development Board
(TWDB). These different datasets were prioritized based on the
quality and coverage extents to determine which information to
use when the datasets were overlapping18. The extent of the
flood hazard areas is estimated to increase by 10 percent in the
Lower Brazos Planning Region in the next 30 years if no action
is taken. As with existing conditions, additional studies are
4 to 5 feet needed to develop comprehensive, consistent, and up-to-date
future flood risk data across the region18. Figure 6.4 shows the
Z to 3 feet> 5 feet flood depth for FEMA Region 6, specifically Brazos County
and its participating entities19. This is the estimated water depths above land surface during a 1%
annual chance storm event19. There are no areas of costal influence19
3 to 4 feet
Figure: 6.4 — FEMA Region 6 Flood Depth Map (Estimated Base Flood Elevation).
(Topographical and Base Map are shown) Legend shows the estimated water depths above land
surface that can occur during a calendar year.
For more information please visit: https://webapps.usgs.gov/infrm/estbfe/
Assessment of Impacts
Flooding is the deadliest natural disaster that occurs in the U.S. each year, and it poses a constant
and significant threat to the health and safety of the people in the Brazos County planning area.
Impacts to the planning area can include:
➢ Flood -related rescues may be necessary at swift and low water crossings or in
flooded neighborhoods where roads have become impassable, placing first
responders in harm's way.
➢ Evacuations may be required for entire neighborhoods because of rising
floodwaters, further taxing limited response capabilities and increasing
sheltering needs for displaced residents.
➢ Health risks and threats to residents are elevated after the flood waters have
receded due to contaminated flood waters (untreated sewage and hazardous
chemicals) and mold growth typical in flooded buildings and homes.
➢ Significant flood events often result in widespread power outages increasing the
risk to more vulnerable portions of the population who rely on power for health
and/or life safety.
➢ Extended power outage can result in an increase in structure fires and/or carbon
monoxide poisoning as individuals attempt to cook or heat their home with
alternate, unsafe cooking or heating devices, such as grills or the misuse of
generators.
➢ Floods can destroy or make residential structures uninhabitable, requiring
shelter or relocation of residents in the aftermath of the event.
➢ First responders are exposed to downed power lines, contaminated and
potentially unstable debris, hazardous materials, and generally unsafe
conditions, elevating the risk of injury to first responders and potentially
diminishing emergency response capabilities.
➢ Emergency operations and services may be significantly impacted due to
damaged facilities.
➢ Significant flooding can result in the inability of emergency response vehicles
to access areas of the community.
➢ Critical staff may suffer personal losses or otherwise be impacted by a flood
event and unable to report for duty, limiting response capabilities.
➢ City or county departments may be flooded, delaying response and recovery
efforts for the entire community.
➢ Private sector entities that the jurisdiction and its residents rely on, such as
utility providers, financial institutions, medical care providers (including
dialysis and long-term care facilities) may not be fully operational and may
require assistance from neighboring communities until full services can be
restored.
➢ Damage to infrastructure may slow economic recovery since repairs may be
extensive and lengthy.
94
➢ Some businesses not directly damaged by the flood may be negatively impacted
while utilities are being restored or water recedes, further slowing economic
recovery.
➢ When the community is affected by significant property damage it is anticipated
that funding would be required for infrastructure repair and restoration,
temporary services and facilities, overtime pay for responders, and normal day-
to-day operating expenses.
➢ Displaced residents may not be able to immediately return to work, further
slowing the economic recovery.
➢ Residential structures substantially damaged by a flood may not be rebuilt for
years and uninsured or underinsured residential structures may never be rebuilt,
reducing the tax base for the community.
➢ Large floods may result in a dramatic population fluctuation, as people are
unable to return to their homes or jobs and must seek shelter and/or work
outside of the affected area.
➢ Businesses that are uninsured or underinsured may have difficulty reopening,
which results in a net loss of jobs for the community and a potential increase in
the unemployment rate.
➢ Flooding may cause significant disruptions of clean water and sewer services,
elevating health risks and delaying recovery efforts.
➢ The psycho -social effects on flood victims and their families can traumatize
them for long periods of time, creating long term increases in medical treatment
and services.
➢ Extensive or repetitive flooding can lead to decreases in property value for the
affected community.
➢ Flood poses a potential catastrophic risk to annual and perennial crop
production and overall crop quality leading to higher food costs.
➢ Flood related declines in production may lead to an increase in unemployment.
➢ Large floods may result in loss of livestock, potential increased livestock
mortality due to stress and water borne disease, and increased cost for feed.
The overall extent of damage caused by floods is dependent on the extent, depth and duration of
flooding, and the velocities of flows in the flooded areas.
The effects of the growing population increase the risk of and exposure to floods due to
increased development and impervious surfaces. Such development changes water flow patterns
increasing the size of the flood prone areas. Additionally, populations that previously had not
experienced flooding in the past may be at risk for future flooding.
95
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning done by government, businesses, and citizens
will contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of a flood event.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Participation
According to FEMA13, jurisdictions participate in the NFIP by adopting and enforcing floodplain
management ordinances to reduce future flood damage. In exchange, the NFIP makes federally
backed flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in these
communities. Community participation in the NFIP is voluntary13
Brazos County and the cities of Bryan, College Station, and Wixon Valley currently participate in
the NFIP and have adopted NFIP minimum floodplain management criteria via local regulation.
Brazos County and the cities of Bryan and College Station have adopted the latest effective
Flood Insurance Rate Map. It should be noted that Wixon Valley participates in the NFIP but has
no floodplain within the city limits. The City of Kurten does not currently participate in NFIP
because there is no identified floodplain in its city limits.
The cities of Bryan and College Station also participate in the NFIP's Community Rating System
(CRS). This voluntary program provides policy holder discounts for community floodplain
management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements13
The designees or agencies implementing the commitments and requirements of NFIP are:
• Brazos County- Road and Bridge
• City of Bryan- Engineering
• City of College Station- Planning and Development
• City of Wixon Valley- Office of the Mayor
These jurisdictions maintain their NFIP compliance by:
• Requiring all new development in the identified flood hazard area to be permitted.
• Requiring revisions to existing structures in the identified flood hazard area to be
permitted.
• Requiring elevation certificates to be submitted as part of the permitting process.
• Persons looking to purchase flood prone property are being advised of the flood hazard
area through credited hazard disclosure measures.
• Continued preservation of open space in the floodplain.
• Acquisition of existing structures from the floodplain.
• Tracking building improvements and repairs to structures located in the identified flood
hazard area.
• Continued enforcement of stream dumping regulations.
96
Further, the NFIP program for all the participating entities promotes sound development in
floodplain areas and includes provisions designed to13:
➢ Protect human life and health.
➢ Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects.
➢ Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and
generally undertaken at the expense of the public.
➢ Minimize prolonged business interruptions.
➢ Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains,
electric, telephone and sewer lines, streets, and bridges located in floodplains.
➢ Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development
of flood -prone areas in such a manner as to minimize future flood areas.
➢ Ensure that potential buyers are notified that property is in a flood area.
➢ Implement actions identified in their floodplain management plans following an
event that causes substantial damage.
The following table (6.5) shows participation in the NFIP by jurisdiction as well as the historical
losses and payouts.
Location Policies In Effect Total Coverage Historical Dollars
Total Losses
(In Thousands) Paid
Brazos County 236 $68,635 34 $1,155,567
City of Bryan 503 $143,245.20 307 $4,406,382
City of College Station 641 $202,581 185 $1,082,188
Table: 6.5 - NFIP Participation in Planning Area (2021)
Source: FEMA13
On an annual basis, each participating entity will review the list of NFIP insured structures that
have been repetitively damaged by floods, to review mitigation actions that have been taken or
could be taken; to minimize or prevent future damages.
97
References — Section 6
1. Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan (2012-2017). Brazos Valley Council of Government.
httvs: //www.bvcog.ore/Portals/0/Brazos-Co-Mitigation-Plan-2012.vdf
2. NOAA. Severe Floods 101. httvs://wwwnssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/floods/tvves/
3. FEMA. Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). httvs://www.fema.gov/glossarv/flood-insurance-rate-mav-firm
4. National Weather Service. Weather. httvs://wwwweather.gov/
5. Climate Change. What will Climate Change Cost You?
httvs: //riskfactor. com/
6. National Environmental Monitoring Conference. Environmental Measurement. httvs://www.nemc.us/
7. US Climate Change Resilience Toolkit. Climate Explorer. httvs://toolkit.climate.gov/tool/climate-explorer-0
8. US Environmental Protection Agency. Enviro-Atlas Interactive Map. https://wwwepa.gov/enviroatlas/enviroatlas-
interactive-map
9. World Health Organization. Floods: How to protect your health. httvs://www.who.int/news-room/auestions-and-
answers/item/how-do-i-vrotect-mv-health-in-a-flood
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Water, Sanitation, & Hygiene (WASH) -related Emergencies and
Outbreaks. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/extreme-weather/floods-standingwaterhtml
11. Brazos County Health District. Main Page. httvs://www.brazoscountvtx.gov/161/Health-District
12. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httvs://bcdem.org
13. FEMA. National Flood Insurance Program. httvs://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance
14. FEMA. HAZUS Product. httvs://www.fema.gov/flood-mays/tools-resources/flood-mav-vroducts/hazus/about
15. Hepatitis in America. Person to Person Outbreaks. httvs://wwwcdc.gov/hevatitis/outbreaks/2017March-HevatitisA.htm
16. Yellow Fever. More people could be put at risk from yellow fever because of climate change.
httvs://wwwgavi.org/vaccineswork/climate-change-could-vut-thousands-more-risk-vellow-fever
17. Landing Rate Count. Mosquito Landing Rate. httvs://evi.dnh.ncdhhs.gov/cd/vector/guidance/3-Hurricane-Florence-
Landing-Rate-Instructions. docx
18. Wade, B. (2022). Region 8 — lower Brazos regional flood planning group. Texas Water Development Board. December
2022.
19. FEMA. Flood Depth. Brazos County.
httvs://webavvs.usgs.gov/infrm/estbfe/
98
Section 7 - Drought
Hazard Description
Drought is a period without substantial rainfall that persists from one year to
the next. Drought is a normal part of virtually all climatic regions, including
areas with high and low average rainfall. Drought is the consequence of
anticipated natural precipitation reduction over an extended period, usually a
season or more in length. Droughts can be classified as meteorological,
hydrologic, agricultural, and socioeconomic.
Keetch-Byram Drought Index2 and Palmer Drought Index6
Brazos County uses the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI)2 and the
Palmer Drought Index6 to measure droughts. The Palmer Drought Index3 is
used to measure the extent of drought by measuring the duration and
intensity of long-term drought -inducing circulation patterns. The Keetch-
Byram Drought Index (KBDI)2, Table: 7.1, is an index used to determine
forest fire potential. The drought index is based on a daily water balance,
where a drought factor is balanced with precipitation and soil moisture
(assumed to have a maximum storage capacity of 8-inches) and is expressed
in hundredths of an inch of soil moisture depletion.
Long-term drought is cumulative, with the intensity of drought during the
current month dependent upon the current weather patterns plus the
cumulative patterns of previous months. The hydrological impacts of
drought (e.g., reservoir levels, groundwater levels, etc.) take longer to
develop. Table: 7.2 (Palmer Drought Index)6 depicts magnitude of drought,
while Table: 7.3 (Palmer Drought Index)6 describes the classification
descriptions.
Drought is monitored nationwide by the National Drought Mitigation Center
(NDMC)4 and the U.S. Drought Monitor3. Indicators are used to describe
broad scale drought conditions across the United States and correspond to
the intensity of drought. The U.S. Drought Monitor3 is one of the factors that
is used to make decisions for the county, such as instituting a burn ban. The
drought severity categories are defined as follows:
QUICK FACTS
Types of Droughts
Meteorological Drought:
The degree of dryness or
departure of action participation
from an expected average or
normal amount based on
monthly, seasonal, or annual
time scales.
Hydrologic Drought:
The effects of precipitation
shortfalls on stream flows and
reservoir, lake, and groundwater
levels.
Agricultural Drought:
Soil moisture deficiencies
relative to water demands of
plant life (usually crops).
Socioeconomic Drought:
The effect of demands for water
exceeding the supply because of
a weather -related shortfall.
History
Two Costliest Droughts in
Brazos County:
• August 1998 -
$190.9m in crop and
property damages
• September 2000 —
$102.3m in crop
damages
Source: The National Weather
Service'
99
KBDI
Values
0 - 200
200 - 400
400 - 600
600 - 800
Drought and Fire Potential Information
Soil and fuel moisture is high. Most fuels will not contribute much to wildfire intensity. This is often seen in
spring after winter precipitation.
Fuels are beginning to dry and contribute to wildfire intensity. Heavier fuels will still not readily ignite and
burn. This is often seen in late spring.
Wildfire intensity begins to increase significantly. Wildfires will readily burn, and larger fuels could burn or
smolder for several days. This is often seen in late summer and early fall.
Wildfires will show extreme intensity. Deep -burning, intense wildfires with significant spotting can be
expected. This is often associated with severe drought.
Table: 7.1 - Keetch-Byram Drought Index Source: Texas A&M Forest Service'
Drought Index
Z Index
Meteorological
Hydrological
Drought Condition Classifications
Extreme Severe Moderate Normal
Moderately
Moist
- 2.75 -2.00 to -1.25 to -1.24 to
and below -2.74 -1.99 +.99 +1.00 to +2.49
- 4.00 -3.00 to -2.00 to
and below -3.99 -2.99
-4.00
and below
Very
Moist
+2.50 to
+3.49
-1.99 to +2.00 to +3.00 to
+1.99 +2.99 +3.99
-3.00 to -2.00 to -1.99 to +2.00 to +3.00 to
-3.99 -2.99 +1.99 +2.99 +3.99
Extremely
Moist
n/a
+4.00 and above
+4.00 and above
Table: 7.2 - Drought Classification - Palmer Index
Source: National Drought Mitigation Center4
1
Category Description
DO Abnormally Dry
D1 Moderate Drought
D2 Severe Drought
D3 Extreme Drought
D4 Exceptional Drought
Possible Impacts
Going into drought: short-term dryness slowing planting, growth
of crops or pastures; fire risk above average. Coming out of
drought: some lingering water deficits; pastures or crops not fully
recovered.
Some damage to crops, pastures; fire risk high; streams, reservoirs,
or wells low, some water shortages developing, or imminent,
voluntary water use restrictions requested.
Crop or pasture losses likely; fire risk very high; water shortages
common; water restrictions imposed.
Major crop/pasture losses; extreme fire danger; widespread water
shortages or restrictions.
Exceptional and widespread crop/pasture losses; exceptional fire
risk; shortages of water in reservoirs, streams, and wells, creating
water emergencies.
Palmer
Drought
Index
-1.O to
-1.9
-2.0 to
-2.9
-3.O to
-3.9
-4.0 to
-4.9
-5.0 or less
Table: 7.3 - Drought Classification Descriptions Source: National Drought Mitigation Center4
100
Hazardous Areas
Droughts occur regularly throughout Texas and the Brazos County planning area and are a
normal condition. However, they can vary greatly in their intensity and duration. The planning
area has experienced abnormally dry to exceptional drought conditions numerous times
throughout the years.
There is no distinct geographic boundary for drought; therefore, it can occur throughout the
Brazos County planning area, including all participating entities. Figure: 7.1 currently shows the
areas that are prone to drought within the planning area.
Figure: 7.1 — Drought Map within Planning Area
Previous Occurrences
Intensity
None
DO (Abnormally Dry)
D1 (Moderate Drought)
D2 (Severe Drought)
03 (Extreme Drought)
D4 (Exceptional Drought)
j No Data
Authors
United States and Puerto Rico Author(s):
Brad Pugh, NOAAICPC
Pacific Islands and Virgin Islands Author(s):
Anthony Artusa, NOAAINWSINCEPICPC
Source: US Drought Monitor'
From January 1996 through July 2023, Brazos County experienced 13 drought events as seen on
as seen on table 7.4, sourced through the National Drought Mitigation Center4 from 1996-2022.
101
Texas Percent Area in U.S. Drought Monitor Categories
j . ry) D1 (Moderate Droughty MI D2 (xe ere Drought) D3 (Extreme Drought) El De (Exceptional Drought)
Table: 7.4 - Drought Incidents, 1996-2023
Future Probability
Source: National Drought Mitigation Center4
Droughts occur regularly in Texas but can vary greatly in their intensity and duration. On
average, a year -long drought takes place somewhere in Texas every three years, and a multi -year
major drought occurs in the state every 20 years].
Based on available records of historic events, there have been thirteen extended time periods of
drought (ranging in length from approximately 30 days to over 1,100 days) within a 26-year
reporting period, which provides a probability of one event every two to three years. This
frequency supports a likely probability of future events for the entire Brazos County planning
area. Figure: 7.2 shows the ranges of abnormally dry to exceptionally dry conditions for Texas
from the US Drought Monitoring Website located at USDrought.gov5, currently.
Location
Countywide
Countywide
Countywide
Countywide
Countywide
Countywide
Date(s)
04/01/1996 —
06/01 /1996
05/01/1998-
08/01/1998
08/01/2000 —
09/01 /2000
07/01/2011-
08/01 /2011
06/14/2022 —
07/19/2022
2023
(undetermined)
Deaths
0
0
0
0
0
0
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
Property Damage
0
$23m
0
0
0
0
Crop Damage
0
$167.9m
$102.3m
0
0
0
Totals 0 0 23m 270.20m
Table: 7.5 - Percentage of Texas under drought conditions Source: US Drought Monitors
Climate Change
Climate change may increase the frequency or intensity of hazards over time8. Projections for
two long term climate scenarios were calculated for dry days. Dry days are defined as the
102
number of days in a year that receive less than 0.01 inch of rain. From 1961 to 1990, the average
number of dry days per year was 243. For these projections, two harmful emissions scenarios are
assessed. One scenario describes a future in which humans stop increasing harmful emissions by
2040 and then continue to reduce emissions through the end of the century (Lower Emissions)8.
The second scenario describes a future in which harmful emissions continue to increase through
the end of the century. (Higher Emissions)8 The trend for the number of dry days per year is
generally consistent over time and the two emission scenarios have only a slight impact on dry
days in Brazos County and participating entities, over the next 80 years8.
Infectious Disease and Risk
The increases in global temperatures expand the geographical range of vector borne pathogens.
All the current information on drought, infectious diseases, and risk (pages 68-71) was taken
from the website: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/drought/implications.htmll. (This website may
become disabled as new information becomes available).
Drought poses many far-reaching health implications. Some drought -related health effects occur
in the short-term and can be directly observed and measured. But the slow rise or chronic nature
of drought also can result in longer term, indirect health implications that are not always easy to
anticipate or monitor"
Drought can also cause long-term public health problems, including":
• Shortages of drinking water and poor -quality drinking water
• Impacts on air quality, sanitation and hygiene, and food and nutrition.
• More diseases, such as West Nile Virus carried by mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water.
Water"
Reduced stream and river flows can increase the concentration of pollutants in water and cause
stagnation. Higher water temperatures in lakes and reservoirs lead to reduced oxygen levels.
These levels can affect fish and other aquatic life and water quality".
Runoff from drought -related wildfires can carry extra sediment, ash, charcoal, and woody debris
to surface waters, killing fish and other aquatic life by decreasing oxygen levels in the water.
Many parts of the United States depend on groundwater as a primary source of water. Over time,
reduced precipitation and increased evaporation of surface water mean that groundwater supplies
are not replenished at a typical rate".
Food and Nutrition"
Drought can limit the growing season and create conditions that encourage insect and disease
infestation in certain crops. Low crop yields can result in rising food prices and shortages,
potentially leading to malnutrition. Drought can also affect the health of livestock raised for
food. During drought, livestock can become malnourished, diseased, and die"
103
Air Quality"
The dusty, dry conditions and wildfires that often accompany drought can harm health. Fire and
dry soil and vegetation increase the number of particulates that are suspended in the air, such as
pollen, smoke, and fluorocarbons. These substances can irritate the bronchial passages and lungs,
making chronic respiratory illnesses like asthma worse. This can also increase the risk for acute
respiratory infections like bronchitis and bacterial pneumonia"
Other drought -related factors affect air quality, including the presence of airborne toxins
originating from freshwater blooms of cyanobacteria. These toxins can become airborne and
have been associated with lung irritation, which can lead to adverse health effects in certain
populations"
Sanitation and Hygiene"
Having water available for cleaning, sanitation, and hygiene reduces or controls many diseases.
Drought conditions create the need to conserve water, but these conservation efforts should not
get in the way of proper sanitation and hygiene"
Personal hygiene, cleaning, hand washing, and washing of fruits and vegetables can be done in a
way that conserves water and reduces health risks. Installing low -flow faucet aerators in
businesses and homes is one example of how to reduce water consumption while maintaining
hand washing and other healthy hygienic behaviors"
Recreational Risks"
People who engage in water -related recreational activities during drought may be at increased
risk for waterborne disease caused by bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants such as
chemicals and heavy metals. Exposure can occur through accidentally or intentionally
swallowing water, direct contact of contaminants with mucous membranes, or breathing in
contaminants""
Untreated surface water can be a health threat in drought conditions. In untreated surface waters,
some pathogens, such as a type of amoeba (Naegleria fowleri), are more common during drought
because low water levels may create warmer water temperatures that encourage their growth"
As the levels of surface waters used for boating, swimming, and fishing drop, the likelihood of
injury increases. Low water levels in lakes can put people at risk of life -threatening injuries
resulting from diving into shallow waters or striking objects that may not be immediately visible
while boating. Low surface water levels can also expose potentially dangerous debris from the
bottom of lakes, rivers, and ponds"
Infectious Disease"
Increases in infectious disease can be a direct consequence of drought.
104
Viruses, protozoa, and bacteria can pollute both groundwater and surface water when rainfall
decreases. People who get their drinking water from private wells may be at higher risk for
drought -related infectious disease. Other groups also at increased risk include those who have
underlying chronic conditions"
Acute respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses are more easily spread from person to person
when hand washing is compromised by a perceived or real lack of available water. During water
shortages, the risk for infectious disease increases when hygiene is not maintained"
E. coli and Salmonella are examples of bacteria that during drought can more readily
contaminate food and cause infectious disease. Food can serve as a vehicle for disease
transmission during a drought because water shortages can cause farmers to use recycled water
to irrigate their fields and process the food they grow. When used to grow crops, improperly
treated water can cause a host of infectious diseases (such as those caused by toxin -producing E.
coli and Salmonella), which can be life -threatening for people in high -risk groups. In addition,
the likelihood of surface runoff, which can occur when rain fails to penetrate the dry and
compacted soil that often accompanies drought, can cause the inadvertent contamination of
crops"
Other infectious disease threats arise when drought leads to the contamination of surface waters
and other types of water that are used for recreational purposes. When temperatures rise and
rainfall declines, people are more likely to participate in water -related recreation. Persons
exposed to contaminated recreational waters are more likely to become infected with pathogens
that thrive in the shallow warm waters that exist during drought conditions"
Chronic Disease"
Conditions associated with drought may negatively impact people who have certain chronic
health conditions such as asthma and some immune disorders"
Drought-related changes in air quality, such as increased concentrations of air particulates and
airborne toxins resulting from freshwater algal blooms, can irritate the eyes, lungs, and
respiratory systems of persons with chronic respiratory conditions"
Changes in water quality, such as increased concentrations of contaminants, can threaten persons
whose immune systems are compromised"
Diseases Transmitted by Insects and Animals"
In periods of limited rainfall, both human and animal behavior can change in ways that increase
the likelihood of other vector borne diseases. For instance, during dry periods, wild animals are
more likely to seek water in areas where humans live. These behaviors increase the likelihood of
human contact with wildlife, the insects they host, and the diseases they carry"
Drought reduces the size of water bodies and causes them to become stagnant. This provides
additional breeding grounds for certain types of mosquitoes (for example, Culex pipiens).
105
Outbreaks of West Nile virus, which is transmitted to humans via mosquitoes, have occurred
under such conditions. Inadequate water supply can cause people to collect rainwater. This can
lead to collections of stagnant water that can become manmade mosquito breeding areas11
Potential Damages and Losses
Drought impacts large areas and crosses jurisdictional boundaries. All existing and future
buildings, facilities, and populations are exposed to this hazard and could potentially be
impacted. However, drought impacts are mostly experienced in water shortages and
crop/livestock losses on agricultural lands, infrastructure and may be affected by
shifting/shrinking soil, within the area.
In terms of vulnerability, population, agriculture, property, socioeconomics, and environment are
all vulnerable to drought in the Brazos County planning area. Typical demand can deplete water
resources during extreme drought conditions. As resources are depleted, potable water is in short
supply and overall water quality can suffer, elevating health concerns for all residents but
especially vulnerable populations — typically children, the elderly, and the ill. In addition, potable
water is used for drinking, sanitation, patient care, sterilization, equipment, heating and cooling
systems, and many other essential functions in medical facilities.
The average person will survive only a few days without potable water, and this timeframe can
be drastically shortened for those people with more fragile health — typically children, the
elderly, and the ill. During summer drought, or hot and dry conditions, elderly persons, small
children, infants and the chronically ill, who do not have adequate cooling units in their homes,
may become more vulnerable to injury and/or death10
The economic impact of droughts can be significant as they produce a complex web of impacts
that spans many sectors of the economy and reach well beyond the area experiencing physical
drought. This complexity exists because water is integral to our ability to produce goods and
provide services. If droughts extend over several years, the direct and indirect economic impact
could be significant.
Habitat damage is a vulnerability of the environment during periods of drought for both aquatic
and terrestrial species. The environment also becomes vulnerable during periods of extreme or
prolonged drought due to severe erosion and land degradation10
Potential annualized losses and damages are estimated by analyzing 100 years of statistical data
compiled by the University of Nebraska -Lincoln. A drought frequency estimate was developed
to determine the effects of and potential losses from a drought on non -irrigated agriculture
products. Based on these calculations, the estimated annualized loss for agricultural products in
the planning area is $107,507,900.
106
Extent
Droughts are one of the most complex of all natural hazards as it is difficult to determine their
precise beginning or end. In addition, droughts can lead to other hazards such as extreme heat
and wildfires.
Over time, drought can cause substantial harm to multiple crops, livestock, water supplies,
wildlife, and tourism. Dying and dead vegetation provides a fuel source for wildfires and is one
of the factors that leads to an increase in the possibility of wildfires.
Meteorological Drought
The degree of dryness or departure of actual precipitation from an expected average
or normal amount based on monthly, seasonal, or annual time scales.
Hydrologic Drought
The effects of precipitation shortfalls on stream flows and reservoir, lake, and
groundwater levels.
Agricultural
Drought
Soil moisture deficiencies relative to water demands of plant life,
usually crops.
Socioeconomic Drought
The effect of demands for water exceeding the supply because of a weather -related
supply shortfall.
Table: 7.6 — Classification Definitions
Based on the historical occurrences (Page 87) for drought and the location of the Brazos County
and participating entities' planning area, the area can anticipate a range of drought from
abnormally dry to exceptional, or D0 to D4, based on the Palmer Drought Category, Table: 7.3.
The entire planning area has experienced exceptional drought conditions. This is the most
extreme drought conditions the area can anticipate in the future.
Assessment of Impacts
The Drought Impact Reporter12 was developed in 2005 by the University of Nebraska -Lincoln to
provide a national database of drought impacts. Droughts can have an impact on agriculture,
business, and industry; energy; fire; plants and wildlife; relief, response, and restrictions on water
usage; society and public health; tourism and recreation; and water supply and quality12. The
reports are submitted to individuals from Federal, State, and local agencies, as well as the public.
Drought does have the potential to impact people in the Brazos County planning area. While it is
rare that drought, in and of itself, leads to a direct risk to the health and safety of people in the
U.S., severe water shortages could result in inadequate supply for human needs. Drought also is
frequently associated with a variety of impacts, including:
> The number of health -related low -flow issues (e.g., diminished sewage flows,
increased pollution concentrations, reduced firefighting capacity, and cross -
connection contamination) will increase as the drought intensifies.
➢ Public safety from forest/range/wildfires will increase as water availability
and/or pressure decreases.
➢ Respiratory ailments may increase as the air quality decreases.
> There may be an increase in disease due to wildlife concentrations (e.g., rabies,
Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease).
107
D. Jurisdictions and residents may disagree over water use/water rights, creating
conflict.
D. Political conflicts may increase between municipalities, counties, states, and
regions.
D. Water management conflicts may arise between competing interests.
> Increased code enforcement activities may be required to enforce water
restrictions.
D. Severe water shortages could result in inadequate supply for human needs as
well as lower quality of water for consumption.
➢ Firefighters may have limited water resources to aid in firefighting and
suppression activities, increasing risk to lives and property.
➢ During drought there is an increased risk for wildfires and dust storms.
D. The community may need increased operational costs to enforce water
restriction or rationing.
D. Prolonged drought can lead to increases in illness and disease related to
drought.
D. Utility providers can see decreases in revenue as water supplies diminish.
➢ Utility providers may cut back energy generation and service to their customers
to prioritize critical service needs.
➢ Hydroelectric power generation facilities and infrastructure would have
significantly diminished generation capability. Dams simply cannot produce as
much electricity from low water levels as they can from high water levels.
D. Fish and wildlife food and habitat will be reduced or degraded over time during
a drought and disease will increase, especially for aquatic life.
➢ Wildlife will move to more sustainable locations creating higher concentrations
of wildlife in smaller areas, increasing vulnerability, and further depleting
limited natural resources.
➢ Severe and prolonged drought can result in the reduction of a species or cause
the extinction of a species altogether.
> Plant life will suffer from long-term drought. Wind and erosion will also pose a
threat to plant life as soil quality will decline.
> Dry and dead vegetation will increase the risk of wildfire.
D. Drought poses a significant risk to annual and perennial crop production and
overall crop quality leading to higher food costs.
D. Drought -related declines in production may lead to an increase in
unemployment.
➢ Drought may limit livestock grazing resulting in decreased livestock weight,
potential increased livestock mortality, and increased cost for feed.
D. Negatively impacted water suppliers may face increased costs resulting from
the transport water or developing supplemental water resources.
D. Long term drought may negatively impact future economic development.
The overall extent of damage caused by periods of drought is dependent on its extent and
duration.
108
The water demand increases during drought due to its scarcity. The growing population further
amplifies the effects of drought due to the increased water demand.
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning done by government, businesses, and citizens
will contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of a drought
event.
109
References — Section 7
1. The National Weather Service. Drought Monitoring. httvs://wwwweather.Qov/ilm/drought
2. Texas A&M Forest Service. Fire Danger & Drought. httvs://tfsweb.tamu.edu/DroughtStudv/
3. US Drought Monitor. Current & Long-term Indicators.
httvs: //droughtmonitor. unl.edu/Condi tionsOutlooks/CurrentConditions. asvx
4. National Drought Mitigation Center. Main Page. httvs://drought.unl.edu/
5. US Drought Monitor. Texas. httvs://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/currentmav/statedroughtmonitor.asvx?TX
6. Palmer Drought Index. Climate Guide Data. httvs://climatedataguide.ucar.edu/climate-data/valmer-drought-severitv-
index-vdsi
7. Texas Water Development. httvs://www.twdb.texas.gov/
8. National Environmental Monitoring Conference. Environmental Measurement. httvs://www.nemc.us/
9. US Climate Change Resilience Toolkit. Climate Explorer. httvs://toolkit.climate.gov/tool/climate-explorer-0
10. World Health Organization. Drought. httvs://wwwwho.int/health-topics/drouaht#tab=tab 1
11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health Implication of Drought.
httvs://www.cdc.gov/nceh/drought/imvlications.htm
12. National Integrated Drought Integration Center (NDMC). Drought Impact Reporter. httvs://www.drought.gov/data-
maps-tools/drought-impact-revorter-dir
110
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111
Section 8 — Wildland Fires
Hazard Description
A wildland fire is any fire occurring on grassland, forest, or prairie
regardless of ignition source, damages, or benefits. These fires can occur at
any time of the year, but climatic conditions such as severe freezes or
droughts can increase the likelihood and intensity of wildland fire eventsl.
A wildfire event can rapidly spread out of control and occurs most often in
the summer when the brush is dry, and flames can move unchecked through
a highly vegetative area. Usually, dense smoke is the first indication of a
wildfires.
A wildfire event often begins unnoticed and spreads quickly, lighting brush,
trees, and homes on fire. For example, a wildfire may be started by a
campfire that was not doused properly, a tossed cigarette, burning debris,
arson, lightning, or downed power lines'.
Texas has seen an increase in the number of wildfires in the past 30 years,
which included wildland, and urban/wildland fires. Wildland fires are
fueled almost exclusively by natural vegetation, while urban/wildland
interface or intermix fires are fires in which vegetation and the built
environment provide the fuel.
Prevalent in the Brazos County area, surface fires and ground fires are the
majority, while crown fires can occur anywhere, they are unlikely to occur
in the planning area.
Hazardous Areas
Fires can affect any part of the planning area, causing temporary or
permanent closure of critical infrastructure and facilities and threatening
human life, property, and the environment.
A wildfire event can be a potentially damaging consequence of drought.
Wildland fire risk can vary considerably by month.
OUICK FACTS
Tunes of Wildfires:
Urban/Wildland Interface:
Areas with housing and low -
density vegetation within fire's
reach (1.5 miles) of a large,
contiguous block of wildland
vegetation.
3 Classes of Wildfires
Surface Fire:
Most common; bums along the
floor of a forest.
Ground Fire:
Usually started by lightning; bums
on or below the forest floor down
to the mineral soil.
Crown Fire:
Spread by wind; moves quickly
along tops of trees.
Source: National Wildfire
Coordinating Group'
Wildfires can vary greatly in terms of size, location, intensity, and duration. While wildfires are
not confined to any specific geographic location, they are most likely to occur in open
grasslands. The threat to people and property from a wildfire event is greater in the fringe areas
where developed areas meet open grass land2. The following Figure: 8.1 identifies wildfire
observed dangers in Texas on 17 October 2023, including Brazos County:
112
Observed Fire Danger
Au ill
•
•
•
r
•
•
inohlta Falls
Link
Abilene
a
Sim Angelo
0
kill
Fire Ganger Rating
LOW
Moderale
High
_ Very HO
_ Extreme
I
• Weather Stations
e Chies
Lerena
0
Fuel Model: G
Observed on
10/17/2023
Austln
°San Antonia
Victor! ■ c
Texarkan■
Tier Longview
r cs
Houstn
Beaumont
0
100 Miles
Tr OAs A&M
AGRI L1 FE
RESEARCH
Produced by TAMU Spaliel Sciences Laboratory
in partnership with Texas ARM Forest Service
TEXAS A&M
FORES I SERVICE
Figure: 8.1 — Sample of Observed Fire Danger
Source: Texas A & M Forest Service'
Figure: 8.1, as shown above, is a current visual that was created by the Texas A & M Forest
Service2 to maintain a continual assessment of wildfire risk at the state, regional and local level,
Texas A&M Forest Service2 continually analyzes current and predicted weather conditions,
wildfire occurrence and the presence and availability of vegetative fuels throughout the year.
Using this information, agency staff develop daily and seasonal forecasts to assist state and local
governmental entities in preparing for and responding to periods of elevated fire danger or fire
seasons. The program produces information and products that are used at the national, state, and
local level by firefighters, elected officials, and public administrators. Their key services include:
• Determining current and predicted weather conditions.
• Monitoring the condition of vegetation and other potential hazards.
• Calculating current and predicted fire behavior.
• Identifying high wildfire risk areas and values threatened.
• Tracking wildfire occurrence and ignition sources.
• Disseminating assessment information to stakeholders and the public.
113
Wildfire ignition densities in Brazos County are low, moderate, high, and very high and were
determined based on the following criteria:
• Risks associated with fuel complexes.
• Risk associated with population.
• Weighted factors of population growth.
Previous Occurrences
The Texas A & M Forest Service2 reported statewide, 218,351 wildfire incidents between 2005
and 2021, burning approximately 11,803,382 acres during this period, 86% of all the wildfires
were within 2-miles of a community2 (See Figure: 8.2).
The historical data reflects wildfire response for Texas A&M Forest Service2 and local fire
departments. Prior to 2005, official wildfire data was not captured using current reporting
methods. There is no official data prior to 2005. The map below shows approximate locations of
wildfires, which can be grass or brushfires of any size.
In 2022, Texas experienced 12,411 wildfires with a combined loss of 650,712 acres. These
figures outpace California's statistics by almost two times3. Table: 8.1, shows a sample of the
previous types and locations of wildland fires within the area.
_ Wildfires that ignited within 2 Miles of a Community
Between Jan. 1, 2005, and Dec. 31, 2021,
218,351 wildfires burned 11,803,382 acres
across the state of Texas. During this time,
86% of all wildfires burned within 2 miles of a
community.
200
Nip
*TEXAS A&M
FOREST SFRVICF
Figure: 8.2 — Historical Wildfire Data Map
u
Source: Texas A&M Fire Service2
114
Type
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Wildfire
Primary
Fire Department
Brazos County Pct. 4 VFD
Brazos County Pct. 4 VFD
Brazos County Dist. 2 VFD
Brazos County Dist. 2 VFD
Brazos County Dist. 2 VFD
Brazos County Dist. 2 VFD
Brazos County Dist. 2 VFD
Brazos County Pct. 3 VFD
South Brazos County FD
Brazos County Pct. 3 VFD
Brazos County Pct. 3 VFD
Brazos County Pct. 3 VFD
Brazos County Pct. 3 VFD
Brazos County Pct. 3 VFD
Brazos County Dist. 2 VFD
Brazos County Dist. 2 VFD
Date(S)
10/06/2005
12/03/2005
12/24/2005
01/03/2006
01/07/2006
02/27/2006
03/31/2006
09/02/2006
07/11/2008
11/05/2008
12/07/2008
01/07/2009
01 /21 /2009
01 /31 /2009
05/09/2011
11/04/2017
Cause
Burning debris
Equipment use
Miscellaneous
Incendiary
Incendiary
Burning debris
Burning debris
Miscellaneous
Burning debris
Burning debris
Burning debris
Burning debris
Burning debris
Burning debris
Unknown
Burning debris
Acres Agencies
Affected Responding
320 8
375 6
300 5
500 7
300 7
70 2
30 3
148 3
75 5
25 6
50 3
35 3
40 4
145 3
100 8
40 5
Table: 8.1 - Sample of Previous Wildland Fires
Future Probability
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)4
Wildfires can occur at any time of the year. As the entities within the county move into
undeveloped areas, the potential area of occurrence of wildfire increases. With 230,762 incidents
in a 17-year period, in Texas, an event within Brazos County, including all participating entities,
is highly likely, meaning an event is probable within the next year.
Climatic conditions such as severe freezes and drought can significantly increase the intensity of
wildfires since these conditions kill vegetation, creating a prime fuel source for wildfires. The
intensity and rate at which wildfires spread are directly related to wind speed, temperature, and
relative humidity5.
The severity of impact from major wildfire events can be substantial. Such events can cause
multiple deaths, shut down facilities for 30 days or more, and cause more than 50 percent of
affected properties to be destroyed or suffer major damage. Severity of impact is gauged by
acreage burned, homes and structures lost, and the number of resulting injuries and fatalities5.
The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI)6 is one of the parameters used to determine forest fire
potential. The drought index is based on a daily water balance and upper soil layers, where a
drought factor is balanced with precipitation and soil moisture (assumed to have a maximum
storage capacity of 8-inches) and is expressed in hundredths of an inch of soil moisture
depletion.
The drought index ranges from 0 to 800, where a drought index of 0 represents no moisture
depletion, and an index of 800 represents absolutely dry conditions. Presently, this index is
derived from ground -based estimates of temperature and precipitation derived from weather
stations and interpolated manually by experts at Texas A&M Forest Service2 for counties across
the state.
Researchers at Texas A&M University are working with Texas A&M Forest Service2 to derive
this index from the Advanced Very High -Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) satellite2 data and the
115
Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) radar2 rainfall within a GIS. Figure: 8.2, shows the
predictive capabilities of the KBDI6. The measurements used are located on Table: 8.3.
KBDI
Values
0 — 200
200 - 400
400 - 600
600 - 800
Drought and Fire Potential Information
Soil and fuel moisture is high. Most fuels will not contribute much to wildfire intensity. This is often seen in
spring after winter precipitation.
Fuels are beginning to dry and contribute to wildfire intensity. Heavier fuels will still not readily ignite and
burn. This is often seen in late spring.
Wildfire intensity begins to increase significantly. Wildfires will readily burn, and larger fuels could burn or
smolder for several days. This is often seen in late summer and early fall.
Wildfires will show extreme intensity. Deep -burning, intense wildfires with significant spotting can be
expected. This is often associated with severe drought.
Table: 8.2 - Keetch-Byram Drought Index
Source: Texas A&M Forest Service2
Keetch-Byram Drought Index
(4 km x 4 km resolution)
Estimated for
10/17/2023
KROE Value
▪ 200
200- 200 - 300
-�7 300 - 400
400 - 500
- 500 - 600
- 600 - 700
- 700 - 800
itun, AMA
AGRILIFE
RESEARCH
Produced by TAMU Spatial Sciences Le., : .•
In partnership wilt Texas ASM Forest Service
TEXAS A&M
FOREST SERVICE
Figure: 8.3 — Sample of Keetch-Byram Drought Index
Source: Texas A&M Forest Service (TFS)2
116
The KBDI6 can also be a good measure of the readiness of fuels for a wildfire incident. It should
be referenced as the area experiences changes in precipitation and soil moisture, while caution
should be exercised in dryer, hotter conditions.
The range of intensity for the Brazos County planning area in a wildfire incident is within an
average of 400 to 6034. But it is not uncommon to have a wildfire outside of these ranges. The
average extent to be mitigated for the Brazos County planning area, including all participating
entities, is a KBDI6 of 400, including other factors. At this level fires more readily burn and will
carry across an area with no gaps. According to RiskFactor.com7, there are currently 62,610
properties in Brazos County that have some risk of being in a wildfire within the next 30 years7.
Other parameters used to determine fire potential include humidity levels, increased wind speeds,
vegetation moisture levels, and fire loads.
Climate Change
Climatic cycles have occurred naturally over hundreds of thousands of years. These cyclical
fluctuations happen on varying time scales lasting from a couple of years to decades to centuries
to millennia. Natural climate cycles can help determine what climate patterns are expected and
how the recent increase in greenhouse gas emissions is causing deviations from these patterns8.
Interannual to Decadal climate cycles involve the relationship between the ocean and the
atmosphere which affect the cycles on a year to decade basis. El Nifo9 (or its opposite La Nina9)
occurs every 3 to 7 years and delivers a variety of weather conditions around the world. There is
some evidence that global warming may be intensifying El Nino/La Nina9 (See Section 9),
regarding information on El Nino/La Nina) events. La Nina is the weather phenomenon that is
responsible for the drier climate, including drought, in the Southern U.S9. According to the
EPA10: "Most of [Texas] has warmed between one-half and one degree (F) in the past century. In
the Eastern two-thirds of the state, average annual rainfall is increasing, yet the soil is becoming
drier.... In the coming decades, storms are likely to become more severe, deserts may expand,
and summers are likely to become increasingly hot and dry, creating problems for agriculture and
possibly human health.... Higher temperatures and drought are likely to increase the severity,
frequency, and extent of wildfires, which could harm property, livelihoods, and human health."10
Research shows the fluctuations in climate have created warmer, more arid conditions that can
cause a prolonged, more active fire season.
Potential Damages and Losses
Potential annualized losses and damages are estimated by using the statistical risk assessment
methodology to compile local and national data, remove duplication, identify patterns in
frequency and vulnerability, extrapolate statistical patterns, and produce meaningful results.
Table: 8.3 currently shows the critical infrastructure located within the reporting area, that has
the potential to become affected. Based on these calculations, the estimated annualized losses to
fire in the planning area amount to $1,553,605 (Table: 8.4).
117
Type
Brazos
County
Bryan
College
Station
Texas
A&M
University
Wixon
Valley
Kurten
Airports
1
1
Animal Shelter
1
1
Bus Lines
2
1
City Halls
1
1
1
Communication Stations
6
1
1
Community Centers
2
4
8
Courthouses
1
1
2
Dialysis Clinics
3
2
A
Electric Power Facilities
2
1
5
Emergency Operations Centers
1
1
Environmental Services
1
1
Fire Stations
12
5
6
Highways
5
2
Major Employment Centers
4
1
1
1
Medical Centers
14
15
1
Nuclear Science
1
Assisted Living Facilities
10
4
Places of Worship
108
144
Law Enforcement Stations
1
3
1
1
Post Offices
1
1
1
1
1
Public Works Services
1
1
Railway Bridges
Schools and Administration
33
18
Public Works Operations Centers
1
Wastewater Facilities
6
21
2
Table: 8.3 — Critical Infrastructure within the Planning Area
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)4
County
Annualized Expected Property Losses ($)
Brazos
$1,553,605
Table: 8.4 - Annualized Expected Property Loss
Extent
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)4
Risk for a wildfire event is measured in terms of magnitude and intensity using the Keetch
Byram Drought Index (KBDI), a mathematical system for relating current and recent weather
conditions to potential or expected fire behavior6. The KBDI determines fire potential based on a
daily water balance, derived by balancing a drought factor, which is the measurement of
precipitation and soil moisture (assumed to have a maximum storage capacity of eight inches),
and is expressed in hundredths of an inch of soil moisture depletion. This information is derived
from the use of ground -based temperatures and the level of precipitation in the areal. The extent
of the wildfire or the rate of spread is highly dependent on several factors to include wind speed
and direction, temperature, relative humidity, and fuel moisture. One of the other factors that
determines extent is the topography of the land as wildfire burns faster uphill than they do
downhill.
118
The extent of urban/wildland interface fires in Brazos County and participating entities is a major
concern; fires can completely shut down small businesses and residents for at least two weeks
and cause more than 25 percent of affected properties to be destroyed or incur damages. The
frequency of occurrence of urban/wildland interface fire events in Brazos County is likely, with
an event probable in the next three years.
Winter is the peak period for major urban/wildland interface fires and fire deaths. The
urban/wildland interface fire risk varies considerably by month. Warning time for
urban/wildland interface fire events is minimal to none.
The maps below (Figures 8.4, 8.5, and 8.6) show the wildfire exposure score for Brazos County.
The wildfire exposure score combines two important wildfire factors related to structure
exposure: the chance of wildfire (Burn Probability) and the potential damage to homes from
wildfire (Damage Potential). These maps were produced by the Texas Wildfire Risk Explorer
iator
!,-- I i
/ /
I '\
i
// t
ti / N
I 1
r \
ri
i
I<-\
1
1f10
Figure 8.4 North Brazos County to include the Cities of Wixon Valley and Kurten
Source: Texas Wildfire Risk Explorer
119
Figure 8.5 Central Brazos County to include Cities of Bryan and College Station to also include Texas A&M
University Main Campus
Source: Texas Wildfire Risk Explorer
120
Figure 8.6 South Brazos County to include the communities of Millican, Cawthon, and Allen Farms.
Source: Texas Wildfire Risk Explorer
There are 62,610 properties in Brazos County that have some risk of being affected by wildfire
over the next 30 years. This represents 88% of all properties in Brazos County. In addition to
damaging properties, wildfire can also cut off access to utilities, emergency services, impact
evacuation routes, and may impact the overall economic well-being of an area. Overall, Brazos
County has a moderate risk of wildfire.
Assessment of Impacts
A wildfire incident poses a potentially significant risk to public health and safety, particularly if
the wildfire is initially unnoticed and spreads quickly. The impacts associated with a wildfire are
not limited to direct damage. Potential impacts for the planning area include:
> Persons in the area at the time of the fire are at risk for injury or death from
burns and/or smoke inhalation.
> First responders are at greater risk of physical injury since they are near the
hazard while extinguishing flames, protecting property, or evacuating residents
in the area.
➢ First responders can experience heart disease, respiratory problems, and other
long term related illnesses from prolonged exposure to smoke, chemicals, and
heat.
121
> Emergency services may be disrupted during a wildfire if facilities are
impacted, roadways are inaccessible, or personnel are unable to report for duty.
> Critical city and/or county departments may not be able to function and provide
necessary services depending on the location of the fire and the structures or
personnel impacted.
➢ Non -critical businesses may be directly damaged, suffer loss of utility services,
or be otherwise inaccessible, delaying normal operations and slowing the
recovery process.
> Displaced residents may not be able to immediately return to work, furthering
economic recovery.
> Roadways in or near the area of impact could be damaged or closed due to
smoke and limited visibility.
> Some high -density neighborhoods feature small lots with structures close
together, increasing the potential for fire to spread rapidly.
> Air pollution from smoke may exacerbate respiratory problems of vulnerable
residents.
> Charred ground after a wildfire cannot easily absorb rainwater, increasing the
risk of flooding.
> Wildfires can cause erosion, degrading stream water quality.
➢ Wildlife may be displaced or destroyed.
> Historical or cultural resources may be damaged or destroyed.
➢ Tourism can be significantly disrupted, further delaying economic recovery for
the area.
➢ Economic disruption negatively impacts the programs and services provided by
the community due to short- and long-term loss in revenue.
➢ Residential structures lost in a wildfire may not be rebuilt for years, reducing
the tax base for the community.
➢ At locations like the Brazos River and area lakes such as Lake Bryan, recreation
and tourism can be unappealing for years following a large wildfire, devastating
directly related businesses.
> Direct impacts to municipal water supply may occur through contamination of
ash and debris during the fire, destruction of aboveground delivery lines, and
soil erosion or debris deposits into waterways after the fire.
The effects of changes in population increases the exposure to wildfires. As the population
continues to grow, the wildland urban interface expands as people build structures and living
occupancies in areas that were once pasture lands.
The economic and financial impacts of a wildfire incident on local government will depend on
the scale of the event, what is damaged, costs of repair or replacement, lost business days in
impacted areas, and how quickly repairs to critical components of the economy can be
implemented.
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning done by government, businesses, and citizens
will contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of a wildfire
incident.
122
References — Section 8
1. National Wildfire Coordinating Group. Mitigation in the Wildland Urban Interface.
httvs: //www nwce. Qov/sites/default/files/publications/vms052. vdf
2. Texas A & m Forest Service. Main Page. httvs://tfsweb.tamu.edu/
3. Forbes. Top Stated with the Most Homes at Risk for Wildfires.
httvs: //www forties. com/sites/brendarichardson/2019/09/12/tov-states-with-the-most-homes-at-risk-of-wildfire-
damaze/?sh= 46b8aa234c50
4. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httvs://bcdem.or2/emereencv/vlans
5. Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. Wildfires and Climate Change. httvs://www.c2es.ore/content/wildfires-and-
climate-chanze/
6. Keetch — Byram Drought Index. Texas Weather Connection. httvs://twc.tamu.edu/kbdi
7. Risk Factor. What will Climate Cost You? httvs://riskfactor.com/
8. United State Department of Agriculture. Climate Change Resource Center. Natural Climate Cycles.
httvs: //www.fs. usda. zov/ccrc/education/climate-vrimer/natural-climate-cycles
9. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. El Nino and La Nina. httvs://wwwnoaa.zov/education/resource-
collections/weather-atmosvhere/el-nino
10. US Environmental Protection Agency. What Climate Change Means for Texas.
httvs: //www epa.zov/sites/default/files/2016-09/documents/climate-chanze-tx. pdf
123
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124
Section 9 — Severe Winter Weather
Hazard Description
A severe winter storm incident is identified as a storm with snow, ice,
or freezing rain. This type of storm can cause significant problems for
area residents2.
Winter storms are associated with freezing or frozen precipitation such
as freezing rain, sleet, frost, snow, a blizzard, and the combined effects
of winter precipitation and strong winds'.
Wind chill is a function of temperature and wind. Low wind chill is a
product of high winds and freezing temperatures'.
Winter storms that threaten Brazos County planning area usually begin
as powerful cold fronts that push south from central Canada. Although
the county is at risk of ice hazards, extremely cold temperatures, and
snow, the effects and frequencies of winter storm events are generally
mild and short-lived'.
The Brazos County planning area, including all participating entities,
typically experience approximately 18-24 extreme cold days a year,
meaning up to 24 days are at or around freezing temperatures.
During times of ice and snow accumulation, response times increase
until public works road crews can make major roads passable.
Table: 9.1 below, displays the types of winter storms and the weather
patterns that are associated with them.
QUICK FACTS
Winter Weather
Announced for snow, blowing,
or drifting snow, freezing drizzle,
freezing rain, or a combination.
Hazard Definitions
Freezing Rain/Drizzle
Rain or drizzle is likely to freeze
on impact and may cause ice
accumulation.
Sleet
Small particles of ice usually
mixed with rain that can make
travel hazardous.
Frost/Freeze Warning
Below freezing temperatures will
cause damage to plants and
crops.
Blizzard
Sustained winds of 35 mph or
more along with considerable
snow.
Wind Chill
A strong wind combined with
temperatures below freezing.
Source: National Oceanic &
Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA)1
125
Type of Winter Stor
Winter Weather Advisory
Description
This alert may be issued for a variety of severe conditions. Weather
advisories may be announced for snow, blowing or drifting snow, freezingdrizzle,
freezing rain, or a combination of weather events.
Winter Storm Watch Severe winterweather conditions mayaffectyour area (freezing rain, sleet, or heavy
snow may occur separately or in combination).
Winter Storm Warning
Freezing Rain or Drizzle
Sleet
Blizzard Warning
Frost or Freeze Warning
Wind Chill
Severe winter weather conditions are imminent.
Rain or drizzle is likely to freeze upon impact, resulting in a coating of iceglaze on
roads and all other exposed objects.
Small particles of ice usually mixed with rain. If enough sleet accumulates on the
ground, it makes travel hazardous.
Sustained wind speeds of at least 35 mph are accompanied by
considerable falling or bowing snow_ This alert is the most perilous winterstorm
with visibility dangerously restricted.
Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause significant damage
to plants, crops, and fruit trees.
A strong wind combined with a temperature slightly below freezing can have the
same chilling effect as a temperature nearly 50 degrees lower in a calm
atmosphere. The combined cooling power of the wind and temperature on
exposed flesh is called the wind-chill factor.
Table: 9.1 — Winter Storm Descriptions Source: National Weather Service3
Hazardous Areas
Winter storm events are not confined to specific geographic boundaries. Therefore, all existing
and future buildings, facilities, and populations in the Brazos County planning area, including all
participating entities, are exposed to a winter storm hazard, and could potentially be impacted3.
The extent or magnitude of a severe winter storm is measured in intensity based on the
temperature and level of accumulations as shown in Table: 9.2. Table: 9.3 should be read in
conjunction with the wind-chill factor described in Figure: to determine the intensity of a winter
storm. The chart is not applicable when temperatures are over 50°F or winds are calm. This is an
index developed by the National Weather Service3.
126
INTENSITY
TEMPERATURE RANGE
(Fahrenheit)
EXTENT DESCRIPTIO
Winds less than 10 mph and freezing rain orlight
Mild 40-50 snow falling for short durations with little or no
accumulations.
Moderate
30 - 40
Winds 10 - 15 mph and sleet and/or snow upto 4
inches.
Significant
Intense snow showers accompanied with strong
25 - 30 gusty winds between 15 and 20 mph with
significant accumulation.
Extreme
Severe
Wind driven snow that reduces visibility, heavy
20 - 25 winds (between 20 to 30 mph), and sleet or ice up to
5 millimeters in diameter.
Below 20
Table: 9.2 — Magnitude of Severe Winter Storms
Winds of 35 mph or more and snow and sleet
greater than4 inches.
Source: NOAA4
Temperature (°F)
Catm 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 -5 -10 -15 -20 -25 -30 -35 -40 -45
5 2 -28 -34 -40 -46 -52 -57 -63
10 -22 -28 -35 -41 -47 -53 -59 -66 -72
15 19 -26 -32 -39 -45 -51 -58 -64 -71 -77
20 -22 -29 -35 -42 -48 -55 -61 -68 -74 -81
t 25 -24 -31 -37 -44 -51 -58 -64 -71 -78 -84
E 30 19 -26 -33 -39 -46 -53 -60 -67 -73 -80 -87
Ts 35 -21 -27 -34 -41 -48 -55 -62 •69 -76 -82 -89
40 -22 -29 -36 -43 -50 -57 -64 -71 -78 -84 -91
45 -23 -30 -37 -44 -51 -58 -65 -72 -79 -86 -93
50 -24 -31 -38 -45 -52 -60 -67 -74 -81 -88 -95
55 -25 -32 -39 -46 -54 -61 -68 -75 -82 -89 -97
60 -26 -33 -40 -48 -55 -62 -69 -76 -84 -91 -98
36 31
34 27
32 25
30 24
29 23
28 22
28 21
27 20
26 19
26 19
25 18
25 17
25 19 13 7 1
21 15 9 3 -4
19 13 6 0 -7
17 11 4 -2 -9
16 9 3 -4 -11
15 8 1 -5 -12
14 7 0 -7 -14
13 6 -1 -8 -15
12 5 -2 -9 -16
12 4 -3 -10 -17
11 4 -3 -11
10 3 -4 -11
Frostbite Times
18
-19
-5
-10
-13
-15
-17
-11
-16
-16
30 minulrs 10 minut,„ S minutes
Wind Chill (°F) = 35.74 + 0.6215T - 35.75(V°116) + 0.4275T(V°.16)
Where,T= Air Temperature (-F) V= Wind Speed (mph) Effective 11/01/01
Table: 9.3 — Wind Chill Factor Chart
Source: NOAA4
Wind chill temperature is a measure of how cold the wind makes real air temperature feel to the
human body. Since wind can dramatically accelerate heat loss from the body, a blustery 30° F
Day would feel just as cold as a calm day with 0° F temperatures4. The Brazos County planning
area, including all participating entities, has never experienced a blizzard. Based on nineteen (19)
previous occurrences recorded from 1997 through 2023, it has been subject to winter storm
watches, warnings, freezing rain, sleet, snow, and wind chill, including the winter storm Uri.
The average number of cold days is similar for the entire planning area, including all
participating entities. Therefore, the intensity or extent of a winter storm incident to be mitigated
127
for the area ranges from mild to extreme according to the definitions in Table: 8.2. The entire
Brazos County planning area can expect anywhere between 0.1 to 4.0 inches of ice and snow
during a winter storm event and temperatures between 20 and 50 degrees with winds ranging
from 0 to 20 mph3.
Previous Occurrences
The Great Texas Freeze of February 2021 killed far more people in the Lone Star State than
Hurricane Harvey did in 2017. According to the final report from the Texas Department of State
Health Services5, released in December 2021, 246 deaths were attributed to the Great Texas
Freeze (Winter Storm Uri), spread out across seventy-seven (77) of the state's counties5.
Among the 244 that had state residency information available, 229 of the deceased were Texas
residents and fifteen (15) lived in other states or countries but were in Texas when they were
killed. Hurricane Harvey killed eighty-nine (89) people, that means the Great Texas Freeze killed
nearly three times more people than Harvey, the nation's second -costliest weather disaster behind
only Hurricane Katrina in 20054.
NOAA4 estimated the historic cold snap in 2021 was a $25.6 billion disaster, more than doubling
the inflation -adjusted cost of the "Storm of the Century" in March 1993. Figure: 9.1, shows the
weather across the nation.
From January 1997 through February 2022, Brazos County experienced 19 winter storm events.
A complete list of winter storm events, as sourced from the Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)6
in Table: 9.4.
—••••••1117
Lowest Temperature in February 2021 (Feb 1-17)
Lowest Temp
1♦ Under-40°F
i� -30°F to -40°F
;= -20'F to -30°F
-10°F to -20'F
MMI 0°F to -10°F
0°Fto+10'F
;.� +10°F to +20°F
C-i +20'F to +32°F
—1 Over+32°F
0i
Source' RpS.
Map by Brian arenscnn&der ; 2021• 5.555 Slotions
Figure: 9.1 — Historic Severe Winter Weather
Source: NOAA4
128
T e
YP
Location
Date(S)
Deaths
Injuries
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
General, Ice
Countywide
01/12/1997
0
0
0
0
General
Countywide
12/23/1998
0
0
$75k
0
General, Ice
Countywide
12/13/2000
0
0
$1m
0
Ice Storm
Countywide
12/07/2005
1
2
$70k
0
Ice Storm
Countywide
01/16/2007
0
0
$lk
0
Ice Storm
Countywide
02/04/2011
0
0
0
0
General, Ice
Countywide
12/07/2013
0
0
0
0
General, Ice
Countywide
01/28/2014
0
0
0
0
General, Ice
Countywide
02/06/2014
0
0
$50k
0
General, Ice
Countywide
3/2-3/2014
0
0
0
0
Snow
Countywide
12/07/2017
0
0
0
0
General
Countywide
01/10/2021
0
0
0
0
General
Countywide
02/13/2021
0
0
0
0
Cold, Wind
Countywide
02/15/2021
0
0
$108k
0
Ice
Countywide
02/17/2021
0
0
0
0
Ice
Countywide
02/03/2022
0
0
0
0
Table: 9.4 — Severe Winter Weather Events
Future Probability
Source: Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024)6
Winter weather impacts continue to increase in severity with climate change as warmer global air
temperatures generate conditions more favorable for extreme precipitation events and destabilize
the polar vortex pattern3.
The expected El Nino has emerged and should gradually strengthen into the winter. El Nino is a
natural climate phenomenon marked by warmer -than -average sea surface temperatures in the
Pacific Ocean. Typically, El Nino conditions result in wetter -than -average conditions from
southern California to along the Gulf Coast and drier -than -average conditions in the Pacific
Northwest, (see Figure: 9.2). We also expect a warm Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO)
and cool Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). Also important are the equatorial stratospheric
winds involved in the Quasi -Biennial Oscillation, or QBO7.
El Nifio is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific. El
Nifio is an oscillation of the ocean -atmosphere system in the tropical Pacific having important
consequences for weather around the globe.
El Nifio events also disrupt global atmospheric circulation. Global atmospheric circulation is the
large-scale movement of air that helps distribute thermal energy (heat) across the surface of
Earth. The eastward movement of oceanic and atmospheric heat sources causes unusually severe
winter weather at the higher latitudes of North and South America.
Among these consequences are increased rainfall across the southern tier of the U.S. and in Peru,
which has caused destructive flooding and drought. Figure: 9.2 shows the extent of the effects of
El Nino on Texas and surrounding areas.
129
Under certain combinations of meteorological conditions, the polar vortex can be displaced from
the North Pole, which could open the door for cold blasts to hit southern Canada and the central
and eastern United States during this upcoming winter.
In the U.S., winter temperatures are warmer than normal in the Southeast, and cooler than
normal in the Northwest'. Global climate La Nina' impacts tend to be opposite those of El Nino'
impacts. In the tropics, ocean temperature variations in La Nina tend to be opposite those of El
Nino. At higher latitudes, El Nino" and La Nina" are among a few factors that influence climate.
However, the impacts of El Nino and La Nina at these latitudes are most clearly seen in
wintertime. In the continental U.S., during El Nino years, temperatures in the winter are warmer
than normal in the North Central States, and cooler than normal in the Southeast and the
Southwest. During a La Nina" year, (see Figure: 9.3), winter temperatures are warmer than
normal in the Southeast and cooler than normal in the Northwest.
L
low pressure
•'a
extended
Pacific Jet Stream,
amplified storm
track
Figure 9.2 - El Nino Weather Patterns
Source: NOAA7
130
Typical Wintertime Pattern
La Nina
Pacific Jet Stream
NWS/NCEP
Climate Prediction Center
Figure: 9.3 — La Nina Weather Patterns
Climate Change
Source: NOAA7
Temperatures are "warming" during all seasons. In many regions, winters are warming faster
than any other season. Climate Central8 reports that winters across the contiguous United States
have warmed by an average of nearly 3°F over the last half of the century8. Extreme precipitation
events appear to be increasing in frequency in Texas, and more broadly across other parts of the
U.S. Consequently, the increasing temperatures that lead to increase evaporation and thus
increased precipitation, can also be expected to lead to increased snowfall as well." Additionally,
research suggests that with increases in average global temperatures and average arctic
temperatures, the jet stream may also change, slowing down and growing wavers8. Changes in
the jet stream may allow extremely cold arctic air to advance farther south than usual in the
winter months and may affect areas that are not accustomed to low temperatures for longer
periods of time10. Though on average winters are predicted to be shorter and warmer, many areas
are predicted to continue to experience significant cold weather over time9.
Potential Damages and Losses
During periods of extreme cold and freezing temperatures, water pipes can freeze and crack, and
ice can build up on power lines, causing them to break under the weight or causing tree limbs to
fall on the lines. These events can disrupt electric service for long periods.
An economic impact may occur due to increased consumption of heating fuel and utilities, which
can lead to energy shortages and higher prices. House fires and resulting deaths tend to occur
more frequently from increased and improper use of alternate heating sources. Fires during
131
winter storms also present a greater danger because water supplies may freeze and impede
firefighting efforts.
All populations, buildings, critical facilities, infrastructure, and equipment in the entire Brazos
County planning area, including all participating entities, are vulnerable to severe winter events;
for example, which may freeze and impede potential firefighting efforts and affect medical
capabilities, such as dialysis.
Extreme winter weather can cause significant problems in the planning area including, but not
limited to, the following:
• Ice accumulation on trees and power lines.
• Hazardous road conditions.
• Dangerous ambient and wind chill temperatures.
People and animals are subject to health risks from extended exposure to cold air. Elderly people
are at greater risk of death from hypothermia during these events, especially in the rural areas of
the county where populations are sparse, icy roads may impede travel, and there are fewer
neighbors to check in on the elderly12.
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control10, every year hypothermia kills about 600
Americans, half of whom are 65 years of age or older. In addition, populations living below the
poverty level may not be able to afford to run heat on a regular basis10. According to the Census
Bureaull, Brazos County currently has 10.3% of the population over 65 and 22.6% living in
poverty. Poverty is defined as not having enough money to meet basic needs including food,
clothing, and shelter11
The annualized expected property losses due to extreme winter weather in Brazos County were
calculated using the statistical risk assessment methodology. According to the data from this
assessment, potential annualized losses in the planning area are $4,428.50.
Extent
The location of winter storms in Brazos County and the participating entities can impact the
entire planning area. The extent of winter storms in Brazos County and the participating entities
can extend from something as minor as winter weather advisory's or as major as freezing
temperatures with sleet, snow, and wind chill. The maximum extent of winter storms for Brazos
County and the participating entities includes low temperatures below 32 degrees, freezing rain
and sleet, and/or snow amounts up to 6-10 inches6.
The frequency of occurrence of winter storms in Brazos County and the participating entities is
unlikely, with an event probable in the next ten years. The severity of impact of winter storms is
generally minor6. Winter storms can cause injuries and completely shut down facilities for more
than one week and cause more than ten percent of affected properties to be destroyed or suffer
major damage6. A heavy accumulation of ice can topple power and telephone lines, television
towers, and trees. Highways become impossible to travel on, and even stepping outdoors can be
132
an extremely risky undertaking. Utility disruptions from winter storms can severely impact the
delivery of services. Water pipes can freeze and crack in sub -freezing temperatures. These events
can disrupt electric service for long periods. Warning time for winter storms is generally 6 to 12
hours6.
Assessment of Impacts
The greatest risk from a winter storm hazard is to public health and safety. Potential impacts for
the planning area may include:
D. Vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, infants, and the homeless, can
face serious or life -threatening health problems from exposure to extreme cold
including hypothermia and frostbite.
D. Loss of electric power or other heat source can result in increased potential for
fire injuries or hazardous gas inhalation because residents burn candles for light
or use fires or generators to stay warm.
➢ Response personnel, including utility workers, public works personnel, debris
removal staff, tow truck operators, and other first responders, are subject to
injury or illness resulting from exposure to extreme cold temperatures.
➢ Response personnel would be required to travel in potentially hazardous
conditions, elevating the life safety risk due to accidents and potential contact
with downed power lines.
D. Operations or service delivery may experience impacts from electricity
blackouts or rolling brown outs, due to winter storms.
D. Power outages are possible throughout the planning area due to downed trees
and power lines and/or rolling blackouts.
D. Critical facilities without emergency backup power may not be operational
during power outages.
D. Emergency response and service operations may be impacted by limitations on
access and mobility if roadways are closed, unsafe, or obstructed.
D. Hazardous road conditions will likely lead to increases in automobile accidents,
further straining emergency response capabilities.
D. Depending on the severity and scale of damage caused by ice and snow events,
damage to power transmission and distribution infrastructure can require days
or weeks to repair.
➢ A winter storm event could lead to tree, shrub, and plant damage or death.
➢ Severe cold and ice could significantly damage agricultural crops.
➢ Schools may be forced to shut early due to treacherous driving conditions.
➢ Exposed water pipes may be damaged by severe or late season winter storms at
both residential and commercial structures, causing significant damages.
The impact of severe winter weather increases as the population grows. More people may be
exposed to extreme cold temperatures, experience power outages, etc.
133
The economic and financial impacts of winter weather on the community will depend on the
scale of the event, what is damaged, and how quickly repairs to critical components of the
economy can be implemented.
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning done by businesses and citizens will also
contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of a winter storm
event.
134
References — Section 9
1. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Severe Winter Weather
httvs://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/winter/tvnes/
2. Brazos Valley Council of Governments. Main Page. httvs://wwwbvcog.org/
3. National Weather Service. Winter Weather Terminology. httns://wwwweather.gov/bgm/WinterTerms
4. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Winter Storm Severity Index.
httvs://www.wvc.nceanoaa.gov/wwd/wssi/wssi.vhv
5. Texas Department of State Health Services. Health and Human Services. httvs://www.dshs.texas.gov/
6. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httvs://bcdem.org/emergencv/vlans
7. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. El Nino and La Nina. httvs://wwwnoaa.gov/education/resource-
collections/weather-atmosphere/el-nino
8. Climate Central. The Case of the Shifting Snow. httvs://wwwclimatecentral.org/report/report-the-case-of-the-shifting-
snow
9. The Climate Reality Project. Winter Weather and the Climate Crisis: Explained.
https://www climaterealitvproiect.org/blog/winter-weather-and-climate-crisis-exvlained
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevent Hypothermia and Frostbite.
httvs://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/staysafe/hvvothermia.html
11. US Census Bureau. Poverty. httvs://www.census.gov/tonics/income-poverty/novertv.html
135
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136
Section 10 — Tornado
Hazardous Description
Tornadoes are among the most violent storms on the planet. A tornado is
a rapidly rotating column of air extending between, and in contact with,
a cloud and the surface of the earth. The most violent tornadoes are
capable of tremendous destruction and have wind speeds of 250 miles
per hour or more. In extreme cases, winds may approach 300 miles per
hour. Damage paths can be more than one mile wide and 50 miles long2.
The most powerful tornadoes are produced by "Supercell
Thunderstorms." These thunderstorms are created when horizontal wind
shears (winds moving in different directions at different altitudes) begin
to rotate the storm. This horizontal rotation can be tilted vertically by
violent updrafts, and the rotation radius can shrink, forming a vertical
column of very quickly swirling air. This rotating air can eventually
reach the ground, forming a tornado2.
Hazardous Areas
Tornado season in Texas falls during the April, May, and June months,
though it's not unheard of to see twisters make landfall throughout the
entire year2.
Tornadoes do not have any specific geographic boundary and can occur
throughout the Brazos County planning area uniformly. It is assumed
that the entire Brazos County planning area, including all participating
entities are uniformly exposed to tornado activity. The entire Brazos
County planning area is in Wind Zone III3 (Figure: 10.1), where tornado
winds can be as high as 250 mph.
QUICK FACTS
Enhanced Fuiita Scale
EF-0 (Gale)
Winds 65-85 mph
Damage to trees and signs.
EF-1 (Moderate)
Winds 86-110 mph
Damage to roofs; mobile homes
pushed off foundations; cars pushed off
roads.
EF-2 (Significant)
Winds 111-135 mph
Considerable damage; roofs torn off;
mobile homes and large trees
destroyed; boxcars pushed over;
projectiles generated.
EF-3 (Severe)
Winds 136-165 mph
Roofs and walls torn off homes; trains
overturned; trees uprooted.
EF-4 (Devastating)
Winds 166-200 mph
Homes leveled; structures and cars
thrown distances.
EF-5 (Incredible)
Winds over 200 mph
Homes disintegrated; large projectiles
generated; steel -reinforced concrete
badly damaged.
Source: National Oceanic &
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)1
137
wrnaw SASO& PUERTO
RCO, V14011,4 15Iu405-
MONI[ IS)
WIND ZONES IN THE UNITED STATES
WINO ZONES
ZONE
ZONE II
ZONE 111
ZONE IV
Figure: 10.1 — Wind Zone Designations in The US
OTHER
CONSIDERATION'S
room 0-°rc.•
Source: FEMA3
The destruction caused by tornadoes ranges from light to inconceivable, depending on the
intensity, size, and duration of the storm. Typically, tornadoes cause the greatest damage to
structures of light construction, such as residential homes (particularly manufactured and mobile
homes).
The Enhanced Fujita Tornado Scale (EF Scale)4
The Enhanced Fujita Scale or EF Scale4, (see Table: 10.1), which became operational on
February 1, 2007, is used to assign a tornado a 'rating' based on estimated wind speeds and
related damage. When tornado -related damage is surveyed, it is compared to a list of Damage
Indicators (DIs) and Degrees of Damage (DoD) (see Table: 10.2) which helps estimate better the
range of wind speeds the tornado likely produced. From that, a rating (from EFO to EF5) is
assigned.
Once the indicator is selected, the team will then assign a degree of damage to the structure or
object. The tornado evaluator will then make a judgement of the wind speeds that could have
caused that specific damage, which will decide the official EF rating of the tornado4.
The EF Scale was revised from the original Fujita Scale to reflect better examinations of tornado
damage surveys so as to align wind speeds more closely with associated storm damage4.
Tornado magnitudes prior to 2005 were determined using the traditional version of the Fujita
Scale. Since February 2007, the Fujita Scale has been replaced by the Enhanced Fujita Scale4
(Table: 10.1), which retains the same basic design and six strength categories as the previous
scale. The newer scale reflects more refined assessments of tornado damage surveys,
standardization, and damage consideration to a wider range of structures.
138
Scale
Wind speed Relative
mph km h hequency
Potentlat darruge
EF1
66-8S 106-137 53.5%
hence damage.
Peels s1+face off some roofs; some damage to goners or siding; branches broken off trees;
shadow -rooted trees pushed over.
Confirmed tornadoes wen no reported damage (I.e., those that remain n open fields) are always
rated EFO.
Moderate Damage.
86-410 138-178 31 .6% Roofs severely stripped mobile homes overturned 0r badly damaged; boss of axle Ea doors;
windows and other glass broken.
Consided,ie damage.
EFt 111-1 175-218 10 7% Roofs torn all we*.consiruded houses. foundations of frame homes shifted; mobie homes
1F3
eemPIetely destroyed forge trees snapped or uprootec>; fight -doled missies generated cars fled
oft graYd.
Severe damage.
1 36-t65 219-266 3 4% &bee stories of weft -constructed houses destroyed; severe damage to large buildings such as
shopping meld trEns Overturned trees debarked heavy cars fled off the grozrd and throwrX
structures with weak lorrldalions brown envoy same distance.
Extreme damage to freer -total destruction.
EF4 166-200 267-3 2 0.7% +Nell -constructed houses and whole frame houses completely leveled Cars thrown and sma#
missiles generated.
>N0 >322 •13.1%
Massive Damage.
Strong frame houses beveled off foundations and swept away; steel -reinforced concrete atruclrees •
c 1 oHy damaged fdgh.rise bukcings have severe structural deterrnetipn. racredfible phenomena will
occw.
Table: 10.1 - Enhanced Fujita Scale
NUMBER
(Details Linked)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
S
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
Enhanced F Scale Damage Indicators
Source: NWS4
DAMAGE I ABBREVIATION I
Small barns, farm outbuildings SBo
One- or two-family residences FR12
Sin -wide mobile home (MHSW) MHSW
Double -vide mobile home MHDW
Apt. condo. townhouse (3 stories or less) ACT
Motel M
Masonry apt. or motel MAM
Small retail bldg (fast food) SRB
Small professional (doctor office. branch bank) SPB
Strip mall SM
Large shoppin\mall LSM
Large. isolated (-big box ) retail bldg LIRE
Automobile showroom ASR
Automotive service building ASB
School - 1-story elementary (interior or exterior balls) ES
School - jr. or sr. high school JHSH
Low-rise (1-4 story) bldg LRB
Mid -rise {5-20 story) bldg. MRB
High-rise (over 20 stories) HRB
Institutional Bldg. (hospital. govt. or university) IB
Metal bui`d)ng system MBS
Service station canopy SSC
Warehouse (tilt -up walls or heavy timber) WHB
Transmission line tower TLT
Free-standing tower FST
Free standing pole (light flag. luminary) FSP
Tree - hardwood TH
Tree - softwood TS
Table: 10.2 — Enhanced Fujita Scale Damage Indicators Source: NWS4
Both the Fujita Scale and Enhanced Fujita Scale4 should be referenced in reviewing previous
occurrences since tornado events prior to 2007 will follow the original Fujita Scale. The largest
magnitude reported within the planning area is an F4 on the Fujita Scale, a "Devastating
139
Tornado." Based on the planning area's location in Wind Zone III3, the planning area could
experience anywhere from an EFO to EF5 depending on the wind speed.
The events in Brazos County have been between EFO and EF34. However, the range of intensity
that the Brazos County planning area, including all participating entities, would be expected to
mitigate is a tornado event that would be a low to incredible risk, an EFO to EF54.
Previous Occurrences
Only reported tornadoes were factored into the risk assessment. It is likely that a high number of
occurrences have gone unreported over the past 69 years.
The reported frequency of a tornado occurrence in the planning area is less than 1 % per year,
though one event may cause millions of dollars in damage'. Tornadoes can cause deaths, the
temporary or permanent loss of critical facilities, and the destruction of property.
From December 1953 through March 2022, Brazos County experienced twenty-nine (29)
tornadic events with the most severe tornado ranked F-3 in 1956. A complete list of tornado
events, as sourced from NOAA1, is in Table: 10.3.
***Note that, prior to 2007 and the establishment of the Enhanced Fujita Scale, the original Fujita Scale was used to
mark the magnitude of tornadoes.
Magnitude
Date
Time
Deaths
Injuries
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
F2
12/02/1953
1530
0
0
$25k
0
F2
04/30/1954
0730
0
0
0
0
F3
04/05/1956
1515
0
0
$250k
0
FO
03/31/1957
1610
0
0
$3k
0
FO
05/20/1960
0615
0
0
0
0
FO
05/17/1965
1456
0
0
0
0
F1
02/10/1981
0245
0
1
$25k
0
F2
11/19/1983
0910
0
0
$2.5m
0
FO
04/27/1990
1758
0
0
0
0
FO
05/13/1994
1525
0
0
0
0
FO
05/08/1995
0230
0
0
$60k
0
FO
01/21/1998
1644
0
0
$35k
0
F1
10/17/1998
1540
0
0
$20k
0
F1
10/12/2001
1150
0
0
$60k
0
FO
12/23/2002
1120
0
0
$5k
0
FO
06/13/2003
1500
0
0
$1k
0
F1
10/05/2003
1705
0
1
$750k
0
FO
10/05/2003
1730
0
0
$3k
0
FO
02/24/2004
2110
0
0
$25k
0
FO
03/17/2004
0040
0
0
$3k
0
F1
05/13/2004
0545
0
0
$515k
0
F1
12/29/2006
1523
0
3
$2.8m
0
EFO
04/28/2009
1441
0
0
0
0
EF1
05/26/2016
1130
0
0
$7m
0
EFO
08/26/2017
0705
0
0
0
0
EF2
04/24/2019
1548
0
0
$400k
0
EFO
05/08/2019
1321
0
0
0
0
EF1
03/21/2022
2005
0
0
$100k
0
Table: 10.3 — Tornadic Activity with Damage Assessments (1953-2022)
Source: NOAA1
140
Future Probability
Tornadic storms can occur at any time of year and at any time of day, but they are typically more
common in the spring months during the late afternoon and evening hours. A smaller, high
frequency period can emerge in the fall during the brief transition between the warm and cold
seasons.
According to historical records, Brazos County, including all participating entities, can
experience a tornado touchdown approximately once every two to three years. This frequency
supports a likely probability of future events for Brazos County, including all participating
entities.
In 2022, Texas ranked second in the number of tornadoes at 160 events, beat only by Louisiana's
number of incidents at 1845.
Due to climate change, rising concentrations of greenhouse gases tend to increase humidity, and
thus, atmospheric instability, which would encourage tornadoes. But wind shear is likely to
decrease, which would discourage tornado formations. Research is ongoing to learn whether
tornadoes will be frequent in the future6.
Climate Change
The Fourth National Climate Assessment' summarizes the complicated relationship between
tornados and climate change: "Some types of extreme weather (e.g., rainfall and extreme heat)
can be directly attributed to climate change. Other types of extreme weather, such as tornados,
are also exhibiting changes that may be linked to climate change, but scientific understanding
isn't detailed enough to project direction and magnitude of future change." In other words, we
still have a lot to learn about how climate change might affect tornados8. There is increasing
evidence linking global warming to changes in severe weather that give rise to tornados8.
Observational data indicate detectable increases in tornado risk over the past few decades. There
are several factors that contribute to tornados and tornado outbreaks in the last decade, which are
influenced by climate change8.
Potential Damages and Losses
Because tornadoes often cross jurisdictional boundaries, all existing and future buildings,
facilities, and populations in the entire Brazos County planning area, including all participating
entities, are exposed to this hazard, and could potentially be impacted. The damage caused by a
tornado is typically a result of high wind velocity, wind-blown debris, lightning, and large hail.
The average tornado moves from southwest to northeast, but tornadoes have been known to
move in any direction9. Consequently, the vulnerability of humans, animals, and property is
difficult to evaluate since tornadoes form at different strengths, in random locations, and create
relatively narrow paths of destruction. Although tornadoes strike at random, making all
buildings vulnerable, three types of structures are more likely to suffer damage9:
141
• Manufactured and mobile homes.
• Homes on peer and beam (more susceptible to lift).
• Buildings with large spans, such as shopping malls, gymnasiums, and factories.
Tornadoes can cause a significant threat to people as they could be struck by flying debris,
falling trees/branches, utility lines, and poles. Blocked roads could prevent first responders to
respond to calls. Tornadoes commonly cause power outages which could cause health and safety
risks to residents and visitors, as well as to patients in hospitals9.
The Brazos County planning area features multiple mobile or manufactured home parks
throughout the planning area, including all participation entities. These parks are typically more
vulnerable to tornado events than typical site -built structures. In addition, manufactured and
mobile homes are located sporadically throughout the planning area including all participating
entities and unincorporated areas of the county which would also be more vulnerable.
The portable buildings used at various locations would be more vulnerable to tornado events than
typical site -built structures and could potentially pose a greater risk for wind-blown debris. In
addition, some of the planning areas feature roof top air conditioning units that would be
vulnerable to high winds and flying debris.
The US Census10 data indicates a total of 5,910 manufactured and mobile homes located in the
Brazos County planning area, including all participating entities and unincorporated areas of the
county. These structures would typically be built to lower or less stringent construction standards
than newer construction and may be more susceptible to damage during significant tornado
events11
RV and RV Parks
The National Weather Service warns that RVs offer very little protection from tornadoes9. They
suggest that you abandon your RV and seek shelter underground, in a concrete structure, or in a
ditch9. Not only can the RV be damaged by flying debris but can flip and the occupants can
become trapped9.
The annualized expected property losses due to tornadoes in the planning area were calculated
using the statistical risk assessment methodology12. Table: 10.4 below identifies these losses by
planning entity:
Planning Entity
Potential Annualized Loss
Unincorporated*
$570,920
City of Bryan
$1,283,912
City of College Station
$1,879,980
City of Kurten
$6,331
Total
$3,741,143
Table: 10.4 — Annualized Expected Loss to Property
Source: Brazos County Tax Assessor's Office12
142
Extent
The destruction caused by tornadoes ranges from light to heavy damage. But the destruction
comes from flying debris, wind factors, water damage, and hail damage. We have added the
Beaufort Wind Scale, which measures the extent and magnitude of a thunderstorm/wind event
that precedes and often follows a tornado. Table: 10.5 describes the different intensities of wind
in terms of speed and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Classification of storm
effects, from calm to violent and destructive.
Beaufort Number Description Wind speed Wave height Sea conditions Land conditions
0
1
2
3
4
Calm
Light air
Light breeze
Gentle breeze
Moderate breeze
11.1
Fresh breezee
Strong bree
High wind
moderate
Lneas gale
Strong,`
ale gal
lent storm
'cane
2knot
1 mph
tskmh
1-3 knots
1-3 mph
2-5 km 'II
4-6 knots
4-7 mph
6— u km:h
7-10 knots I
8-12 mph
12-2gRauh
22-16 knots
13-18 mp♦Ii
sa-28
27-21 knots 1
19-24 mph
29-38 km h
27-27 knots.
25-31 mph
39-49 k nt
28-33 knots
3a-38 mph
so-61 km h.
34-40 kn
39-46�
62-74
41-47 kno
47-54
'1"M
LiM
Table: 10.5 — Beaufort Wind Scale
Assessment of Impacts
o Et
om
0-3 ft
o—a.3 m
2—aft
0.3-0.6 m
2-4 ft
0.6-1,2m
3.5-6 ft
6—rah Ili]
2-3 m
9-23 Ft ill
3-4m
4-5.5 0
4-5.5
58- SS-7.5 ni
L-32fte
—10 m
Sea like a mirror
Ripples
Small wavelets
Large wavelets
Small waves
1
LModerate waves
r".1
ISea heaps up I
aderatels high
waves
Pti-1
Cry high
waves, sea is
Smoke rises vertically
Direction shown by
smoke drift
Wind felt on fate
Leaves and small twigs
in constant motion
1
Raises dust and loose
paper
I Small trees and leafs
begin to sway
I Large branches in
motion
pt. trees in motion
iTwigs break off trees
Slight structural
damage
uproa
lderable struc
damage
Idd1Pt5ad
damaj
PP
oevastatioi
ff
•
41
�fk •
17-1.111111811
•
Source: NWS9
Tornadoes have the potential to pose a significant risk to the population and can create dangerous
situations. Often, providing and preserving public health and safety is difficult. Impacts to the
planning area can include:
143
> Individuals exposed to the storm can be struck by flying debris, falling limbs, or
downed trees causing serious injury or death.
> Structures can be damaged or crushed by falling trees, which can result in
physical harm to the occupants.
➢ Manufactured and mobile homes may suffer substantial damage as they would
be more vulnerable than typical site -built structures.
➢ Significant debris and downed trees can result in emergency response vehicles
being unable to access areas of the community.
> Downed power lines may result in roadways being unsafe for use, which may
prevent first responders from answering calls for assistance or rescue.
➢ Tornadoes often result in widespread power outages increasing the risk to more
vulnerable portions of the population who rely on power for health and/or life
safety.
➢ Extended power outages can result in an increase in structure fires and/or
carbon monoxide poisoning as individuals attempt to cook or heat their home
with alternate, unsafe cooking or heating devices, such as grills or incorrect use
of generators.
➢ Tornadoes can destroy or make residential structures uninhabitable, requiring
shelter or relocation of residents in the aftermath of the event.
> First responders must enter the damage area shortly after the tornado passes to
begin rescue operations and to organize cleanup and assessments efforts,
therefore they are exposed to downed power lines, unstable and unusual debris,
hazardous materials, and generally unsafe conditions, elevating the risk of
injury to first responders and potentially diminishing emergency response
capabilities.
➢ Emergency operations and services may be significantly impacted due to
damaged facilities, loss of communications, and damaged emergency vehicles
and equipment.
> City or county departments may be damaged or destroyed, delaying response
and recovery efforts for the entire community.
> Private sector entities that the city and its residents rely on, such as utility
providers, financial institutions, and medical care providers may not be fully
operational and may require assistance until full services can be restored.
➢ Economic disruption negatively impacts the programs and services provided by
the community due to short- and long-term loss in revenue.
> Damage to infrastructure may slow economic recovery since repairs may be
extensive and lengthy.
➢ Some businesses not directly damaged by the tornado may be negatively
impacted while roads and utilities are being restored, further slowing economic
recovery.
> When the community is affected by significant property damage, it is
anticipated that funding would be required for infrastructure repair and
restoration, temporary services and facilities, overtime pay for responders, and
normal day-to-day operating expenses.
144
> Displaced residents may not be able to immediately return to work, furthering
economic recovery.
> Residential structures destroyed by a tornado may not be rebuilt for years,
reducing the tax base for the community.
➢ Large or intense tornadoes may result in a dramatic population fluctuation, as
people are unable to return to their homes or jobs and must seek shelter and/or
work outside of the affected area.
➢ Businesses that are uninsured or underinsured may have difficulty reopening,
which results in a net loss of jobs for the community and a potential increase in
the unemployment rate.
➢ Recreation activities may be unavailable, and tourism can be unappealing for
years following a large tornado, devastating local businesses.
The growing population increases exposure to tornadoes. More development increases the
potential for more debris. Critical infrastructure increases with the growing population; therefore,
the tornado exposure for critical infrastructure increases.
The economic and financial impacts of a tornado event on the community will depend on the
scale of the event, what is damaged, costs of repair or replacement, lost business days in
impacted areas, and how quickly repairs to critical components of the economy can be
implemented.
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning done by government, businesses, and citizens
will contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of a tornado
event.
145
References — Section 10
1. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Tornadoes. https://wwwnoaa.Qov/education/resource-
collections/weather-atmosphere/tornadoes
2. National Weather Service. Tornado Definitions. https://wwwweather.Qov/phi/TornadoDefinition
3. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Understanding Hazards. https://wwwfema.gov/ndf/librarv/ism2 sl.ndf
4. National Weather Service. The Enhanced Fujita Scale. https://wwwweather.gov/oun/efscale
5. Policy Genius. Texas Home Insurance rates on The Rise. https://wwwpolicygenius.com/homeowners-insurance/why-
texas-home-insurance-rates-are-rising/
6. US Environmental Protection Agency. Climate. httns://www.ena.g ov/sites/default/files/2016-09/documents/climate-
chanze-tx.pdf
7. National Climate Assessment. Main Page. https://nca2014.2lobalchange.2ov/
8. Global Change. Fourth National Climate Assessment. https://nca2018.2lobalchange.gov/
9. National Weather Service. Weather -Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, Lightening. https://wwwweather..gov/media/owlie/ttl6-
10.pdf
10. US Census Bureau. Brazos County. https://www.census.zov/auickfacts/fact/table/brazoscountvtexas/PST045222
11. City Data. Brazos County. https://wwwcity-data.com/countv/Brazos Countv-TXhtml
12. Brazos County Tax Assessors Office. Main Page. https://www.brazoscountvtx.zov/138/Tax-Assessors-Office
146
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147
Section 11— Hail
Hazard Description
Hailstorm incidents are a potentially damaging outgrowth of severe
thunderstorms. During the developmental stages of a hailstorm, ice
crystals form within a low-pressure front due to the rapid rising of warm
air into the upper atmosphere, and the subsequent cooling of the air
mass2.
Frozen droplets gradually accumulate in the atmosphere into ice crystals
until they fall as precipitation that is round or irregularly shaped masses
of ice typically greater than 0.75 inches in diameter. The size of hailstones
is a direct result of the size and severity of the storm2.
High velocity updraft winds are required to keep hail in suspension in
thunderclouds. The strength of the updraft is a by-product of heating on
the Earth's surface. Higher temperature gradients above the Earth's
surface result in increased suspension time and hailstone size2.
Hazardous Areas
Hailstorms are an extension of severe thunderstorms that could potentially
cause severe damage. As a result, they are not confined to any specific
geographic location and can vary greatly in size, location, intensity, and
duration. Therefore, the Brazos County planning area, including all
participating entities, are equally at risk to the hazard of hail.
Most hailstorms occur during March, April, May, and September. Hail
causes damage to automobiles, windows, roofs, crops, and animals2.
The National Weather Service (NWS)3 classifies a storm as "severe" if
there is hail three-quarters of an inch in diameter (approximately the size
of a penny) or greater, based on radar intensity or as seen by observers3.
The intensity category of a hailstorm depends on hail size and the
potential damage it could cause, as depicted in the National Centers for
Environmental Information (NCEI) Intensity Scale in Table: 11.1.
OUICK FACTS
What is hail?
Hail is a form of precipitation
consisting of solid ice that forms
inside thunderstorm updrafts.
Hail can damage aircraft, homes,
businesses, and cars, and can be
deadly to livestock and people.
How does hail form?
Hailstones are formed when
raindrops are carried upward by
thunderstorm updrafts into
extremely cold areas of the
atmosphere and freeze.
Hailstones then grow by
colliding with liquid water drops
that freeze onto the hailstone's
surface.
How does hail fall to the
ground?
It falls to the ground when the
frozen water becomes too heavy
to stay in the clouds.
Where can I find data on
hailstorms?
The National Climatic Data
Center is the official archive for
all U.S. weather events.
Source: National Climatic Data
Center'
148
Size
Code
Intensity
Category
Size
(Diameter
Inches)
Descriptive
Term
Typical Damage
HO
Hard Hail
Up to 0.33
Pea
No damage.
HI
Potentially Damaging
0.33 — 0.60
Marble
Slight damage to plants
and crops.
H2
Potentially Damaging
0.60 — 0.80
Dime
Significant damage to plants
and crops.
H3
Severe
0.80 1.20
Nickel
Severe damage to plants and crops.
H4
Severe
1.2 1.6
Quarter
Widespread glass and auto damage.
H5
Destructive
1.6 — 2.0
Half Dollar
Widespread destruction of glass,
roofs, and the risk of injuries.
H6
Destructive
2.0 — 2.4
Ping Pong Ball
Aircraft bodywork dented and
brick walls pitted.
H7
Very Destructive
2.4 — 3.0
Golf Ball
Severe roof damage and risk of
serious injuries.
H8
Very Destructive
3.0 — 3.5
Hen Egg
Severe damage to all structures.
H9
Super Hailstorms
3.5 — 4.0
Tennis Ball
Extensive structural damage could
cause fatal injuries.
H I O
Super Hailstorms
4.0 +
Baseball
Extensive structural damage could
cause fatal injuries.
Table: 11.1 — Hail Intensity and Magnituw Scale
Source: NOAA4
The intensity scale4 in Table: 11.1, ranges from HO to H10, with increments of intensity or
damage potential in relation to hail size (distribution and maximum), texture, fall speed, speed of
storm translation, and strength of the accompanying wind4.
Based on available data regarding the previous occurrences for the area, the Brazos County
planning area, including all participating entities, could experience hailstorms ranging from an
HO to an H104.
149
Previous Occurrences
Historical evidence shown in Table: 11.2, demonstrates that the planning area is vulnerable to
hail events overall, which typically result from severe thunderstorm activity. Historical events
with reported damage, injuries, or fatalities are shown in Table: 11.2. A total of sixty-six (66)
reported historical hail events impacted the Brazos County planning area between 2005 through
2022 (summary Table: 11.2). Including a significant hail event(s) that occurred on 05/07/2020
and 04/08/2021. These events were reported to NCEI4 and NOAA1 databases and may not
represent all hail events to have occurred during the past 17 years. Only those events for the
Brazos County planning area with latitude and longitude available were plotted.
Future Probability
Based on available records for Brazos County, a probability of three to four events per year may
occur. According to NOAA1 and storm events data, this frequency supports a highly likely
probability of future incidents for the Brazos County planning area including all participating
entities. Figure: 11.1, shows that 46% of the time the County will experience hail.
Hurricanes (3%'
Snow Storms (4%)
Figure 11.1 — Distribution of Storm Incidents in Brazos County
Climate Change
Source: Augurisk.com5
Predictions about the effects of climate changes on hail, including event frequency, spatial
distribution, and intensity (e.g., hail size of kinetic energy) are limited and uncertain. Research
suggests that climate change is expected to result in conditions that increase the potential for
severe thunderstorms in the U.S., broadly. However, the resulting changes to specific storm -
related events are not well -understood. Some predictive models predict fewer hail events broadly
across the U.S., these predictive models also simultaneously predict an increase in the Brazos
County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2024. Proactive mitigation for a Disaster -Resilient Future 56 ( a
mitigation roadmap that provide practical advice and resources to those involved in disaster risk
reduction (DRR)) mean hail size, suggesting fewer small hail events but more frequent large hail
events6. However, regional conditions that may affect the likelihood of hail production vary and
regionally specific, precise predictions are not well-understood6. However, most predictions
150
appear to suggest that the most likely future trend is an increase in the proportion of hail events
consisting of large hail6. Large hail tends to produce greater and more significant economic
damage, suggesting that planning for a future environment in which hail events and hail damage
are likely to increase to some extent is reasonably well supported6.
Potential Damages and Losses
Damage from hail approaches 1 billion dollars in the U.S. each year. Most of the time, crops
sustain the most damage during an incident. Even relatively small hail can shred plants to
ribbons in a matter of minutes. Vehicles, roofs of buildings and homes, and landscaping are also
damaged by hail.
Utility systems on roofs at school districts and critical facilities are vulnerable and could be
damaged. Hail could cause a significant threat to people and animals as they could be struck by
hail and falling trees and branches. Outdoor student activities and events may elevate the risk to
students and faculty when a hailstorm strikes with little warning. Hail events during school hours
could elevate the risk to students and faculty due to broken windows and flying debris. Portable
buildings utilized by campuses within the school district would be more vulnerable to hail events
than the typical site -built structures. In addition, outdoor equipment would be more vulnerable
including air conditioning units, and athletic fields equipped with operational infrastructure.
Windows at all structures would be vulnerable and shattered glass may cause injury to students
and faculty.
The Brazos County planning area features manufactured and mobile home parks throughout the
planning area. These parks are typically more vulnerable to hail events than typical site -built
structures. In addition, manufactured and mobile homes are located sporadically throughout the
planning area including all participating entities, which would also be more vulnerable. The US
Census data indicates a total of 5,910 manufactured and mobile homes located in the Brazos
County planning area including all participating entities8.
Hail has been known to cause injury to humans and livestock and occasionally has been fatal.
Overall, approximate annual loss estimates of $38,953. Losses were adjusted to account for
inflation and calculated through a non -linear regression of historical data.
Based on historic loss and damages, the impact of hail damages on the Brazos County planning
area, including all participating entities can be considered "Limited" with the exception of 2020
and 2021, severity of impact meaning injuries and illness can be treated with first aid, county
area facilities are shut down for 24 hours or less, and less than ten percent of property destroyed
or with major damage.
Extent
Hailstorms are generally localized, and their impact is considered limited since the injuries they
cause are generally treatable with first aid, they shut down critical facilities and services for 24
hours or less, and less than ten percent of affected properties are destroyed or suffer major
151
damage9. The frequency of occurrence of hail in Brazos County and participating entities is
likely, with an event highly likely in the next three years9.
Warning time for a hailstorm is generally minimal or no warning. The National Weather Service
classifies a storm as severe if hail of 1 inch in diameter (approximately the size of a quarter) or
greater is imminent based on radar intensities or observed by a spotter or other people9.
The extent of hail in Brazos County and participating entities can range from 1/4 of an inch up to
4.5 inches, based on information from the National Weather Service.
Assessment of Impacts
Hail events have the potential to pose a significant risk to people and can create dangerous
situations. Impacts to the planning area can include:
➢ Hail may create hazardous road conditions during and immediately following an
event, delaying first responders from providing for or preserving public health
and safety.
➢ Individuals and first responders who are exposed to the storm may be struck by
hail, falling branches, or downed trees resulting in injuries or possible fatalities.
D. Large hail incidents will likely cause extensive roof damage to residential and
business structures along with siding damage and broken windows, creating a
spike in insurance claims and a rise in premiums.
D. Automobile damage may be extensive depending on the size of the hail and
length of the storm.
➢ Hail events can result in power outages over widespread areas increasing the risk
to more vulnerable portions of the population who rely on power for health and/or
life safety.
➢ Extended power outage can result in an increase in structure fires and/or carbon
monoxide poisoning, as individuals attempt to cook or heat their home with
alternate, unsafe cooking or heating devices, such as grills and the incorrect use
of generators.
➢ First responders are exposed to downed power lines, damaged structures,
hazardous spills, and debris that often accompany hail events, elevating the risk
of injury to first responders and potentially diminishing emergency response
capabilities.
➢ Downed power lines and large debris, such as downed tree limbs, can result in
the inability of emergency response vehicles to access areas of the community.
➢ Hazardous road conditions may prevent critical staff from reporting for duty,
limiting response capabilities.
➢ Economic disruption negatively impacts the programs and services provided by
the community due to short- and long-term loss in revenue.
➢ Some businesses not directly damaged by the hail event may be negatively
impacted while roads are cleared and utilities are being restored, further slowing
economic recovery.
152
➢ Businesses that are more reliant on utility infrastructure than others may suffer
greater damage without a backup power source.
D. Hazardous road conditions will likely lead to increases in automobile accidents,
further straining emergency response capabilities.
➢ Depending on the severity and scale of damage caused by large hail events,
damage to power transmission and distribution infrastructure can require days
or weeks to repair.
➢ A significant hail event could significantly damage agricultural crops, resulting
in extensive economic losses for the community and surrounding area.
➢ Hail events may injure or kill livestock and wildlife.
➢ A large hail event could impact the accessibility of recreational areas and parks
due to extended power outages or debris clogged access roads.
The growing population increases exposure to hail. More development increases the potential for
more debris. Critical infrastructure increases with the growing population; therefore, the hail
exposure for critical infrastructure increases.
The economic and financial impacts of hail will depend entirely on the scale of the event, what is
damaged, and how quickly repairs to critical components of the economy can be implemented.
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning conducted by the community, local businesses,
and citizens will contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of
any hail event.
153
References — Section 11
1. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Climate Data Online. httvs://www.ncei.noaa.Qov/cdo-web/
2. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Severe Storm — Hail.
httvs://www.nssl.noaa.2vv/education/svrwx101/hail/
3. National Weather Service. Storm Reports. httvs://www.weatherzov/hem/helvStormRevorts
4. National Centers for Environmental Information. Strom Data. httvs.•//www.ncdc.noaa.zov/stormevents/faa.isv
5. Augurisk. Brazos County. httvs://www.au2urisk.com/risk/state/texas/brazos-county/48041
6. Brimelow, J., Burrows, W., & Hanesiak, J. (2017). The changing hail threat over North America in response to
anthropogenic climate change. Nature Climate Change, 7(7), 516-522.
7. Archer County Hazard Mitigation Plan. 2019 Draft.
httvs: //www.co. archer. tx.us/unload/vaz e/1357/Draft%20Archer%20Countv%2 OHMAP%20June%202019.vdf
8. City Data. Brazos County. httvs://www.citv-data.com/countv/Brazos Countv-TXhtml
9. The Tornado and Storm Research Organization. The TORRO Hailstorm Intensity Scale. Hail Size and Diameter.
httvs://www.torro.orz.uk/research/hail/hscale.
154
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155
Section 12 — Thunderstorms and Wind
Hazard Descriptions
Thunderstorms create extreme wind events which includes straight line
winds. Wind is the horizontal motion of the air past a given point,
beginning with differences in air pressures. Pressure that is higher at one
place than another sets up a force pushing from the high toward the low
pressure: the greater the difference in pressures, the stronger the force. The
distance between the area of high pressure and the area of low pressure
also determines how fast the moving air accelerates'.
Thunderstorms are created when heat and moisture near the Earth's
surface are transported to the upper levels of the atmosphere. By-products
of this process are the clouds, precipitation, and wind that become the
thunderstorm'.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS)2, a thunderstorm
occurs when thunder accompanies rainfall. Radar observers use the
intensity of radar echoes to distinguish between rain showers and
thunderstorms2.
Straight line winds are responsible for most thunderstorm wind damages.
One type of straight-line wind, the downburst, is a small area of rapidly
descending air beneath a thunderstorm. A downburst can cause damage
equivalent to a strong tornado and make air travel extremely hazardous2.
Hazardous Areas
Thunderstorms and wind events can develop in any geographic location
and are considered a common occurrence in Texas.
Therefore, a thunderstorm wind event could occur at any location within
Brazos County's planning area, including all participating entities as these
storms develop randomly and are not confined to any geographic area
within the County. It is assumed that the entire Brazos County planning
area is uniformly exposed to the threat of thunderstorms winds.
The Beaufort Wind Scale3
OUICK FACTS
Anatomy of a Thunderstorm
Moisture — forms the clouds and
rain.
Unstable Air — warm air that
rises rapidly.
Lift — fronts, sea breezes and
elevations lift air to help form
the thunderstorm.
Thunderstorm
A thunderstorm, also known as
an electrical storm or a lightning
storm, is a storm characterized
by the presence of lightning and
its acoustic effect on the Earth's
atmosphere, known as thunder.
Relatively weak thunderstorms
are sometimes called thunder
showers.
The typical thunderstorm is 15
miles in diameter and lasts an
average of 30 minutes.
Lightening occurs in all
thunderstorms.
The number one killer in a
thunderstorm is flash flooding.
Straight line winds can exceed
100 mph and a downburst can
cause damage equivalent to a
tornado.
Source: National Weather
Service2
In the early 19th century, naval officers made regular weather observations, but there was no
standard scale, so they could be very subjective — one man's "stiff breeze" might be another's
"soft breeze". Beaufort succeeded in standardizing the scale3.
The Beaufort Scale3 is an empirical measure that relates wind speed to observed conditions at sea
or on land. The full name is the Beaufort Wind Scale3.
156
Table: 12.1, shows the Beaufort Scale3 with speeds in knots, miles per hour and kilometers per
hour. Please note that these are mean speeds, usually averaged over 10 minutes by convention,
and do not capture the speed of wind gusts3.
The wind speeds shown in the table below and that you hear quoted in weather or news reports
are always measured at 10 meters or 0.00321371 miles above the ground using meteorological
instruments. They do not reflect the wind speeds that you would feel on the ground. At 2 meters
or 0.00124274 miles, wind speed may be only 50-70% of these figures3.
Force
Speed
Description
Specifications for use at sea
Specifications for use on land
(mph)
(knots)
0
0-1
0-1
Calm
Sea like a mirror.
Calm; smoke rises vertically.
1
1-3
1-3
Light Air
Ripples with the appearance of scales are formed, but
without foam crests.
Direction of wind shown by smoke drift, but not by wind
vanes.
2
4-7
4-6
Light Breeze
Small wavelets, still short, but more pronounced. Crests have
a glassy appearance and do not break.
Wind felt on face; leaves rustle; ordinary vanes moved by
wind.
3
8-12
7-10
Gentle
Breeze
Large wavelets. Crests begin to break. Foam of glassy
appearance. Perhaps scattered white horses.
Leaves and small twigs in constant motion; wind extends
light flag.
4
13-18
11-16
Moderate
Breeze
Small waves, becoming larger; fairly frequent white horses.
Raises dust and loose paper; small branches are moved.
5
19-24
17-21
Fresh Breeze
Moderate waves, taking a more pronounced long form; many
white horses are formed.
Small trees in leaf begin to sway; crested wavelets form on
inland waters.
6
25-31
22-27
Strong
Breeze
Large waves begin to form; the white foam crests are more
extensive everywhere.
Large branches in motion; whistling heard in telegraph wires;
umbrellas used with difficulty.
7
32-38
28-33
Near Gale
Sea heaps up and white foam from breaking waves begins to
be blown in streaks along the direction of the wind.
Whole trees in motion; inconvenience felt when walking
against the wind.
8
39-46
34-40
Gale
Moderately high waves of greater length; edges of crests
begin to break into spindrift. The foam is blown in well -
marked streaks along the direction of the wind.
Breaks twigs off trees; generally impedes progress.
157
9 47-54 41-47 Severe Gale High waves. Dense streaks of foam along the direction of the
wind. Crests of waves begin to topple, tumble and roll over.
Spray may affect visibility
Slight structural damage occurs (chimney -pots and slates
removed)
10 55-63 48-55 Storm Very high waves with long overhanging crests. The resulting
foam, in great patches, is blown in dense white streaks along
the direction of the wind. On the whole the surface of the sea
takes on a white appearance. The tumbling of the sea
becomes heavy and shock -like. Visibility affected.
Seldom experienced inland; trees uprooted; considerable
structural damage occurs.
11 64-72 56-63 Violent Exceptionally high waves (small and medium -size ships
Storm might be for a time lost to view behind the waves). The sea is
completely covered with long white patches of foam lying
along the direction of the wind. Everywhere the edges of the
wave crests are blown into froth. Visibility affected.
Very rarely experienced; accompanied by wide -spread
damage.
12 72-83 64-71 Hurricane The air is filled with foam and spray. Sea completely white
with driving spray; visibility very seriously affected.
see Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale
Table: 12.1 — Beaufort Wind Scale Source: National Weather Service3
Previous Occurrences
There is no reliable, long-term record of severe thunderstorms or the severe weather they
produce: tornadoes, hail, and strong winds. Reporting methods and magnitude scales have
changed over time for tornadoes and hail events4. Maps of the historic distribution of tornadoes,
hail, and strong winds make it clear that no corner of the state is immune to severe
thunderstorms4. Not only is the climate data record for severe thunderstorms poor, but severe
thunderstorms are also too small to be simulated directly by present-day climate models4.
Therefore, when assessing trends in severe thunderstorms, it is necessary to consider indirect
indicators of severe thunderstorm frequency and intensity such as wind shear and convective
instability, both of which favor severe storms4. This results in an overall increase in the number
of days capable of producing severe thunderstorms4.
Regarding the specific hazards of thunderstorms, lightning occurs most often during the months
of May and June4, due to climate change these months may vary. Severe wind is most prevalent
during the summer months from disorganized storm systems. Warmer temperatures are likely to
lead to less hail overall, particularly during the summer, but increases in available thunderstorm
energy may lead to an increase of the risk of very large hail in springtime4.
From February 2009 through May 2017, Brazos County has experienced twenty (20) reported
thunderstorms and wind incidents listed on Table: 12.2.
158
Location
Date
Time
Wind Speed
Deaths
Injuries
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
BC
02/10/2009
2325
52 knots
0
0
$8k
0
K
03/31/2009
0445
50 knots
0
0
$3k
0
COB, K
05/03/2009
0454-0500
55 knots
0
0
$5k
0
COCS
07/19/2009
1800
56 knots
0
0
$5k
0
COB
02/01/2011
0440
52 knots
0
0
$1k
0
COB
05/12/2011
1030
58 knots
0
0
0
0
K
06/06/2011
1735
52 knots
0
0
$lk
0
COB
08/24/2011
1829
52 knots
0
0
0
0
COB
01/09/2012
0412
52 knots
0
0
$3k
0
COB, COCS
01/25/2012
0715-0724
55 knots
0
0
$21k
0
COB
02/03/2012
1938
65 knots
0
0
$5k
0
COB
08/07/2012
1645
50 knots
0
0
0
0
COCS
10/13/2013
0158
52 knots
0
0
$15k
0
COB
05/23/2015
2230
55 knots
0
0
0
0
COB, COCS
08/25/2015
1115-1128
59 knots
0
0
0
0
COB
04/27/2016
0136
60 knots
0
0
0
0
BC
01/02/2017
0635
52 knots
0
0
0
0
BC
03/27/2017
0120
51 knots
0
0
0
$lk
BC
05/21/2017
0008
60 knots
0
0
0
0
COB, BC
05/28/2017
1853
53 knots
0
0
0
0
Table 12.2 — Thunderstorm and Wind Incidents in Brazos County (2009-2017)
HMAP (2019-2024)5
*** The term "knot", in reference to currents, is defined as one nautical mile per hour and is used to measure speed. A
nautical mile is slightly more than a standard mile.
Future Probability
Source: Brazos County
As temperatures increase, the amount of energy available to fuel these storms will increase as
temperature and low-level moisture increase'. Even though shear will likely decrease as the
temperature gradient from the poles to the equator weakens, the increase in the Convective
Available Potential Energy (CAPE) outweighs any decrease in low level shear4.
Most thunderstorm winds occur during the months of March, April, May, and September4. Based
on available records of historic events, there are 143 recorded wind events in Brazos County6.
This frequency supports a probability of one to two events every year. Even though the intensity
of thunderstorm wind events is not always damaging for the Brazos County planning area, the
frequency of occurrence for a thunderstorm wind event is highly likely. This means that an event
is probable within the next year for the Brazos County planning area, including all participating
entities.
If an exceedingly rare windstorm (a 1-in-3,000-year storm event) occurred today, it could cause
wind gusts of up to 134 mph in Brazos County. A storm of this severity has a 1% chance of
occurring at least once over the next 30 years6. In 30 years, an event of this same likelihood
would show increased wind gusts of up to 145 mph due to a changing environment6.
Climate Change
Severe winds are associated with severe storm conditions. Predictions about trends in severe
storm likelihood and severity are typically made at broader spatial scales than the planning area,
or even the region. Broad predictive efforts indicate that severe storms are likely to increase in
159
severity globally and in the U.S. due to climate change. However, predictions also indicate that
frequency of strong storms may decrease. Some predictions indicate a shift in storm loci
(location of updrafts/downdrafts, strength of storm top divergence), such that strong storms that
affect the Central and South -Central U.S. may become less frequent as they become more
frequent in Eastern and North-Eastern North America. Other climate models consistently project
environmental changes that would predict an increase in the frequency and intensity of severe
thunderstorms (a category that combines tornados, hail, and winds), especially over regions that
are currently prone to these hazards such as the Southern and Eastern U.S8. However, the
confidence intervals and predictive power of many of these models are relatively low9.
Predictions specifically about wind are also varied. Some research points to a "global stilling,"
meaning a reduction in mean winds globally. Other research suggests evidence for trends of
increasing wind speeds globally10. While other research predicts decline in wind speed for many
regions as the climate warms, a shift in high wind regions moving poleward, increases winds and
wind speeds in specific locations, for example due to increases in hurricane severity in some
regions11. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)12 currently forecasts that on
average, worldwide annual wind speeds are expected to drop by up to 10%. Predictions of future
severe wind patterns largely rely on predictions of changes to, or increases in, thunderstorm
storm frequency or severity, and are thus saddled with the same uncertainty and limits to
predictive power. Given the varied and uncertain predictions regarding storm frequency, severity,
and resulting effects on severe wind event frequency and severity, planners should act with the
expectation that severe storm and wind conditions are likely to be similar, if slightly lower or
slightly higher, in frequency and severity in the future12. For the planning area, a reasonable
baseline for planning purposes would be approximately 3 to 6 significant thunderstorms per year,
several of which may be accompanied by significant wind conditions.
Also associated with thunderstorms and wind, is lightening, lightning is correlated with severe
storm conditions but ultimately is caused by hyper -local, transitory conditions, identifying
patterns, and generating predictions are difficult to conduct at a local scale. Broad predictive
efforts indicate that lightning strikes are likely to increase nationwide due to climate change13
Predictions of future lightning frequency largely rely on predictions of changes to, or increases
in, thunderstorm storm frequency and severity, as well as the trend that lightning is more likely to
occur in warmer conditions, on average. Areas with predicted increases in thunderstorm
frequency or severity, and/or where temperatures are predicted to increase, can reasonably expect
that lightning frequency will remain the same or increase14. Spatial and temporal changes to
lightning occurrence and severity may be expected to result in higher risk of sequelae such as
wildfires15. Research indicating recent, short-term changes to lightning strike density (i.e.,
comparing 2022 to the average rates for 2015 to 2021) nationwide show that during 2022, in
Texas, strike density was down compared to the prior 6-year average. In Vaisala 's annual
lightning report executive summary (Vagasky 2022)16, it was noted that: Texas remains the
United States lightning count leader: The Lone Star State continued its run as the number one
state for lightning with 27,696,688 total lightning events in 202216. While it secured the top spot,
its total count dropped significantly from the 41 million events recorded in 202116. Texas faced
its most severe drought since 2011, with more than a quarter of the state experiencing
exceptional drought conditions in mid-August16. Lightning strikes during droughts can lead to
wildland fires and dwelling fires. However, locally specific future predictions regarding changes
160
to lightning frequency or location are not well understood and limited data exist to make locally
specific predictions of such changes16
Potential Damages and Losses
Vulnerability is difficult to evaluate since thunderstorm wind events can occur at different
strength levels, in random locations, and can create relatively narrow paths of destruction. Due to
the randomness of these events, all existing and future structures and facilities in the Brazos
County planning area, including all participating entities, could potentially be impacted and
remain vulnerable to possible injury and property loss from strong winds.
Trees, power lines and poles, signage, manufactured and mobile housing, radio towers, concrete
block walls, storage barns, windows, garbage receptacles, brick facades, and vehicles, unless
reinforced, are vulnerable to thunderstorm wind events17. More severe damage involves
windborne debris; in some instances, patio furniture and other lawn items have been reported to
have been blown around by wind and, very commonly, debris from damaged structures in turn
have caused damage to other buildings not directly impacted by the event17. In numerous
instances roofs have been reported as having been torn from buildings. The portable buildings
used at various locations would be more vulnerable to thunderstorm wind events than typical
site -built structures and could potentially pose a greater risk for wind-blown debris17. In addition,
some structures feature roof top air conditioning units that would be vulnerable to high winds
flying debris17. These structures would also be more vulnerable. These units would also pose the
additional threat of contributing to flying debris, causing additional damage to structures17.
A thunderstorm wind incident can also result in traffic disruptions, injuries and in rare cases,
fatalities. An average forty-nine (49) deaths and hundreds more injuries occur around the U.S.
annually. An estimated 100,000 thunderstorms occur nationwide each year. The southeast Texas
area averages 50 to 60 days with thunderstorms per year. Brazos County had one fatality in
2021and numerous injuries reported from secondary causes related to thunderstorms and
wind19. Impact of thunderstorm wind events experienced in the entire Brazos County planning
area would be "Minor," and injuries and illnesses would be treatable with first aid, ten percent or
more of property damaged or destroyed, and facilities would be shut down for up to one week19
Overall, the average loss estimate (in 2019 dollars) is $3,107,325, having an approximate annual
loss estimate of $48,552.
Extent
The extent of thunderstorm types in Brazos County and participating entities can be classified as
a T 4 Heavy Thunderstorm2, as described in the Thunderstorm Criteria Scale below.
161
THUNDERSTORM
TYPES
T-1 - Ilcal: thunderstorms
or Thundershowers
Rainfall ALA7f
Ratelbr WIND
GUST
-03-.30 <25]IPH
Hair. PEAK
SIZE TORNADO
Possibilitc
None lone
LIGHTNING
FREQUENCY
(5 min Intervals)
On]_i a few Wk.
daring the storm.
Darkness Factor
Slightly Dark- Snalig ht ma}- be seen
under the storm.
STORM
LAIPACT
1 No damage.
2. Gusty %rinds at nines.
T-2-Itoitem te
Thandetstor ms-
-10"--2=' 225-40]IPH None Naoe
Occasional Moderately Dark-Hea.2-dowapours
1-10 n1a1'rause the need for or lights.
1- Heavy downpours.
2. Occasional lightning.
.. Gusty winds.
-1. Very little damage.
5. Small tree bra aches may break
a. Lawn furniture moved around
T-3-Hea52' Thunderstorms
1 Singular or lines of
storms.
.35"-.55"
40-57 MPH
1/4 " to 14"
EFO Occasional to
Frequeol
10.20
Dark Car lights used. I-isibilite toll
ill heart rains- Cars may pull off the
road.
1. Minor Damage.
1 Aoxapours that produce some
flooding on streets.
3. Frequent lightning could rause
house fires.
4- Hail occurs wil bin the do w opours.
5. Small branches are broken.
6. Shingles are blown off rook.
Poud,ug 1 HLd mu Lawn dP4tr
an tar, and ritst crop damage
U and damagt to ices% sad
T-5 - Extreme
1.25^ - 4" Over-0
O%-er 15"
Pitch Slack. Street Lights come on.
1. Severe Damage t0 Tree .3 i1.t
Thunderstorms
Mph
to d"
....... ___ __ House lights ma, be used
Property- Damage a +s int • w L ad
1 Supers ells of ith famtln of
tornadoes.
2. Flooding rains
3. Damaging hail.
1. D,•rerbo Ll indslorms
4- Damaging nutd gusts to frees and
buildings.
5. Tornadoes F.3F5 or bolds of
Io ruadoes can occur- 'forma d ue=-
... .. desastation
Table: 12.3 — Thunderstorm Criteria Scale
Source: National Weather Service
The extent of high winds in Brazos County and the participating entities can be classified as a
Beaufort Number 11, based on the Beaufort Wind Scale in Table 12.13, from historical data
(2009-2017).
Assessment of Impacts
Thunderstorm wind events have the potential to pose a significant risk to people and can create
dangerous and difficult situations for public health and safety officials. Impacts to the planning
area can include:
➢ Individuals exposed to the storm can be struck by flying debris, falling limbs, or
downed trees causing serious injury or death.
➢ Structures can be damaged or crushed by falling trees, which can result in
physical harm to the occupants.
➢ Significant debris and downed trees can result in emergency response vehicles
being unable to access areas of the community.
➢ Downed power lines may result in roadways being unsafe for use, which may
prevent first responders from answering calls for assistance or rescue.
➢ During exceptionally heavy wind events, first responders may be prevented from
responding to calls, as the winds may reach a speed at which their vehicles and
equipment are unsafe to operate.
➢ Thunderstorm wind events often result in widespread power outages increasing
the risk to more vulnerable portions of the population who rely on power for
health and/or life safety.
162
➢ Extended power outage often results in an increase in structure fires and carbon
monoxide poisoning, as individuals attempt to cook or heat their homes with
alternate, unsafe cooking or heating devices, such as grills and incorrect use of
generators.
➢ First responders are exposed to downed power lines, unstable and unusual debris,
hazardous materials, and generally unsafe conditions.
➢ Emergency operations and services may be significantly impacted due to
damaged facilities and/or loss of communications.
➢ Critical staff may be unable to report for duty, limiting response capabilities.
> City or county departments may be damaged, delaying response and recovery
efforts for the entire community.
> Private sector entities that the community and its residents rely on, such as utility
providers, financial institutions, and medical care providers may not be fully
operational and may require assistance from neighboring communities until full
services can be restored.
> Economic disruption negatively impacts the programs and services provided by
the community due to short- and long-term loss in revenue.
> Some businesses not directly damaged by thunderstorm wind events may be
negatively impacted while roads are cleared and utilities are being restored,
further slowing economic recovery.
➢ Older structures built to less stringent building codes may suffer greater damage
as they are typically more vulnerable to thunderstorm winds.
> Large scale wind events can have significant economic impact on the affected
area, as it must now fund expenses such as infrastructure repair and restoration,
temporary services and facilities, overtime pay for responders, and normal day-
to-day operating expenses.
➢ Businesses that are more reliant on utility infrastructure than others may suffer
greater damage without a backup power source.
> Activities at locations that attract tourism include hiking, camping, boating, and
fishing throughout the year. A large thunderstorm wind event could impact
recreational activities, placing visitors in imminent danger, potentially requiring
emergency services or evacuations.
➢ Recreational areas and parks may be damaged or inaccessible due to downed
trees or debris, causing temporary impacts to area businesses.
The growing population increases exposure to thunderstorms and wind. More development
increases the potential for more debris. Critical infrastructure increases with the growing
population; therefore, the thunderstorms and wind exposure to critical infrastructure increases.
The economic and financial impacts of thunderstorm winds on the area will depend entirely on
the scale of the event, what is damaged, and how quickly repairs to critical components of the
economy can be implemented.
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning done by the community, local businesses, and
citizens will also contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of
any thunderstorm wind event.
163
References - Section 12
1. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Thunderstorms. httvs://www.noaa.Qov/ietstream/thunderstorms
2. National Weather Service. Severe Thunderstorm Safety. httvs://www.weatherEov/safetv/thunderstorm
3. National Weather Service. Beaufort Wind Scale. https://wwwweather.Qov/mfl/beaufort
4. Climate Texas. Texas A & M University. httvs://climatexas.tamu.edu/
5. Brazos County HMAP (2019-2024). Main Page. httvs://bcdem.orr/emerrencv/plans
6. Risk Factor. Brazos County. httvs://riskfactor.com/citv/brazos-countrv-tx/4810090 fsid/wind?utm source=redfin
7. Haberlie, A., Ashley, W., Battisto, C., & Gensini, V. (2022). Thunderstorm activity under intermediate and extreme
climate change scenarios. Geophysical Research Letters, 49(14), e2022GL098779.
8. Trapp, R., Diffenbaugh, N.., Brooks, H., Baldwin, M, Robinson, E., & Pal, J. (2007). Changes in severe thunderstorm
environment frequency during the 21 st century caused by anthropogenically enhanced global radiative forcing.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 104(50), 19719-19723.
9. Hayhoe, K., Edmonds, J., Kopp, R., LeGrande, A., Sanderson, B., Wehner, M, & Wuebbles, D. (2017). Climate models,
scenarios, and projections.
10. Ye, S., Zeng, G., Wu, H., Liang, J., Zhang, C., Dai, J., & Yu, J. (2019). The effects of activated biochar addition on
remediation efficiency of co -composting with contaminated wetland soil. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 140,
278-285.
11. Abell, 1., Winckler, G., Anderson, R., & Herbert, T. (2021). Poleward and weakened westerlies during Pliocene
warmth. Nature, 589(7840), 70-75.
12. IPCC. Weather and Climate Extreme Events in the Changing Climate.
httvs://www.incc.ch/report/ar6/wQ1/downloads/report/IPCC AR6 WGI Chanterll.vdf
13. Muller, C., & Romps, D. (2018). Acceleration of tropical cyclogenesis by self -aggregation feedback. Proceedings of the
National Academy of Sciences, 115(12), 2930-2935.
14. Price, C., and D. Rind, (1994) Modeling global lightning distributions in a general circulation model. Mon. Weather
Rev, 122, 1930-1939, doi:10.1175/1520-0493(1994)122<1930:MGLDIA>2.0.CO;2. NASA.
15. Nampak, H.; Love, P.; Fox -Hughes, P.; Watson, C.; Aryal, 1.; Harris, R.M.B. (2021). Characterizing Spatial and
Temporal Variability of Lightning Activity Associated with Wildfire over Tasmania, Australia. Fire (2021), 4, 10.
httvs: //doi. org/10.3390/fire4010010
16. Vaisala. Vaisala Annual Weather Lightening Report, 2022. Vaisala X-weather Annual Lightning Report explores 2022's
extremes - from a record -breaking volcano to major snowstorms and exceptional drought.
httvs: //www.vaisala. com/en/press-releases/2023-01 /vaisala-xweather-annual-lightning-report-explores-2022s-
extremes-record-breaking-volcano-maior-snowstorms-and-exce_tional
17. San Antonio. Hazard Mitigation Action Plan.
httvs: //wwwsaoemvrevare.com/Portals/16/Files/Plans/vlanHMAP.vdf?ver-2017-03-01-001439-567
18. National Weather Service. Weather. Main Page. httvs://forecast.weather.Qov/MavClickvhv?zoneid=TXZ196
19. Texas Department of State Health Services. Texas Health and Human Services. Main Page. httvs://www.dshs.texas.uov/
164
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165
Section 13 — Dam Failure
Hazard Description
Dams are water storage, control, or diversion structures that impound
water upstream in reservoirs. Dam failure can take several forms,
including a collapse of or breach in the structure. While most dams
have storage volumes small enough that failures have few or no
repercussions, dams storing large amounts can cause significant
flooding downstream. Dam failures can result from any one or a
combination of the following causes2:
➢ Prolonged periods of rainfall and flooding, which
cause most failures, such as structural integrity
failures.
➢ Inadequate spillway capacity, resulting in excess
overtopping of the embankment.
➢ Internal erosion caused by embankment or foundation
leakage or piping.
➢ Improper maintenance, including failure to remove
trees, repair internal seepage problems, or maintain
gates, valves, and other operational components.
➢ Improper design or use of improper construction
materials.
➢ Failure of upstream dams in the same drainage basin.
➢ Landslides into reservoirs, which cause surges that
result in overtopping.
➢ High winds, which can cause significant wave action
and result in substantial erosion.
➢ Destructive acts of terrorism.
➢ Earthquakes, which typically cause longitudinal cracks
at the tops of the embankments, lead to structural
failure.
Benefits provided by dams include water supplies for drinking;
irrigation and industrial uses; flood control; hydroelectric power;
recreation; and navigation. At the same time, dams also represent a risk
to public safety2. Dams require ongoing maintenance, monitoring,
safety inspections, and sometimes even rehabilitation to continue safe
service2. In the event of a dam failure, the energy of the water stored behind the dam can cause
rapid and unexpected flooding downstream, resulting in loss of life and substantial property
damage2. A devastating effect on water supply and power generation might occur as we112.
QUICK FACTS
Critical Components
Abutments
Dam abutments are where the
dam is structurally tied in with
the adjoining valley slopes.
Right and left abutments are
described as viewed looking
downstream.
Spillways
Are used to help regulate the
volume of water in the reservoir.
They can also be used to release
surplus floodwater that cannot
be contained in the reservoir.
Outlet Works
Control the release of water
from a reservoir and typically
consist of a combination of
structures.
Source: FEMA1
The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, generated increased focus on protecting the
country's infrastructure, including ensuring the safety of dams.
166
One major issue with the safety of dams is their age. The average age of America's 84,000 dams
is 52 years3. According to statistics released in 2009 by the Association of State Dam Safety
Officials4, more than 2,000 dams near population centers are in need of repair4. In addition to the
continual aging of dams, there have not been significant increases in the number of safety
inspectors resulting in haphazard maintenance and inspection4.
The Association of State Dam Safety Officials4 estimate that $16 billion will be needed to repair
all high- hazard dams, but the total for all state dam -safety budgets is less than $60 million4. The
current maintenance budget does not match the scale of America's long-term modifications of its
watersheds4. Additionally, more people are moving into risky areas4. As the American population
grows, dams that once could have failed without major repercussions are now upstream of cities
and development4.
Hazardous Areas
The State of Texas has 7,413 dams, all regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality (TCEQ)5. The National Dam Safety Review Board (in coordination with FEMA)6 and
the National Inventory of Dams (NID)7 list a total of thirty-eight dams in or near the Brazos
County planning area, including all participating entities. Each of these dams were analyzed
individually by location, volume, elevation, and condition (where available) when determining
the risk, if any, for each dam.
Each dam site was further analyzed for potential risks utilizing FEMA's National Flood Hazard
Layers to map locations and fully understand development near the dam and topographical
variations that may increase risk. Most of the dams listed in the planning area were embankments
for typically dry detention drainage areas or shored up stream embankments8. These types of
structures are utilized for flood control and a variety of other purposes and do not pose a dam
failure risk8. Additionally, dams in the planning area feature such limited storage capacity that
they pose no risk to structures, infrastructure, or citizens8. Dams that were deemed to pose no
past, current, or future risk to the planning area are not profiled in the plan as no loss of life or
impact to critical facilities or infrastructure is expected in the event of a breach8.
Legislation was passed on September of 2013 allowed for some dams to be designated as
exempt if they met all the following five criteria9:
• Privately owned.
• Less than 500-acre foot maximum capacity.
• Located in a county with a population of less than 350,000 (per census).
• Located outside the city limits.
• Low or significant hazard rating.
While owners are still required to do maintenance on those dams, TCEQ9 is not required to do
inspections on those dams. For those dams that are non-exempt (see Table 13.1), the owners
must continue the maintenance of the dams, schedule inspections every 5 years with TCEQ9, and
if they are high and significant hazard dams, they must also produce an emergency action plan.
167
Dam Name
Exemption Status
Latitude/Longitude
Dam
Height
(Ft.)
Maximum
Storage
(Acre feet)
Normal
Storage
(Acre feet)
Available
Data
Bryan Utilities
Lake Dam
Non -Exempt
30.710067/-96.453721
59
20763
13647
Yes
Carter Lake Dam
Non -Exempt
30.594992/-96.248677
32
2196
481
Data Deficient
Midtown Park
Lake Dam
Non -Exempt
30.639827/-96.358982
10
128
42
Yes
CSISD at
Anderson St
Detention
Structure No. 3
Non -Exempt
30.613940/-96.327372
11.7
9
0
Data Deficient
Finfeather Lake
Dam
Non -Exempt
30.649868/-96.371041
16.1
300
156
Data Deficient
Lake Arapaho
Dam
Non -Exempt
30.510553/-96.250460
37
924
436
Data Deficient
Leisure Lake Dam
Non -Exempt
30.633847/-96.411916
25
322
175
Data Deficient
Nantucket Dam
Non -Exempt
30.543651/-96.243367
20
428
140
Data Deficient
Oakland Lake
Dam
Non -Exempt
30.776483/-96.235630
32
550
272
Data Deficient
TAMU Detention
Dam No. 8
Non -Exempt
30.621050/-96.333642
8.2
140
0
Yes
Thousand Oaks
Dam No. 11
Non -Exempt
30.544471/-96.231595
22
120
58
Data Deficient
Table: 13.1 — Dam Exemption/Non-Exemption Status in Brazos County
Dam Classification System'°
Source TCEQ9
The three classification levels for dams that were adopted are: low, significant, and high, listed in
order of increasing adverse incremental consequences. The classification levels build on each
other, i.e., the higher order classification levels add to the list of consequences for the lower
classification levels10
This hazard potential classification system should be utilized with the understanding that the
failure of any dam or water -retaining structure, no matter how small, could present a danger to
downstream life and property. Whenever there is an uncontrolled release of stored water, there is
the possibility of someone, regardless of how unexpected, being in its path10
A primary purpose of any classification system10 is to select appropriate design criteria. In other
words, design criteria will become more conservative as the potential for loss of life and/or
property damage increases. However, postulating every conceivable circumstance that might
remotely place a person in the inundation zone whenever a failure may occur should not be the
168
basis for determining the conservatism in dam design criterialo
Table: 13.2, shows the classification system that categorizes dams based on the probable loss of
human life and the impacts on economic, environmental, and lifeline interests.
Classification
Loss of Human Life
Economic,
Environmental, and
Lifeline Losses
A — Low None Expected
B — Significant
C - High
None Expected
Probable, one or more
expected
Low and Generally
Limited to Owner
Yes
Yes
Table: 13.2 — Classification of Dams
Source: DHS11 & FERC'2
A/Low Hazard Potentia111,12
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis operation
results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses
are principally limited to the owner's property11,12
B/Significant Hazard Potentia111,12
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or
mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss,
environmental damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or can impact other concerns. Significant
hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas
but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure11'12
C/High Hazard Potentia112
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation
will probably cause loss of human life11,12
Brazos County has a total of thirty-eight (38) dams with the following hazard potential
classifications:
• Low: twenty-six (22)
• Significant: five (5)
• High: eleven (11)
For dams with a maximum storage capacity between 10,000 and 100,000 acre-feet, all structures
within three miles are at risk of potential dam failure hazards. For dams with a maximum storage
capacity of less than 10,000 acre-feet, all structures within one mile are at risk of potential dam
failure hazards,8 currently there are thirty-seven (37) that are under 10,000 acre-feet and one (1)
that is between 10,000 and 100,000 acre-feet10
The areas at risk in the event of a dam failure are identified in Figure 13.1, below.
169
Urazos Uounty
EOC Dam Map
l •
BrRAZOS COUNTY
TEXAS
MIRY WM
l� . f—
vrcXUn
� art
Figure: 13.1 Dam Locations and Surrounding Areas
Previous Occurrences
•C�
. y...
Mi,A ...NOMIpS Mr.1R1n1lM
Source: Brazos County Road and Bridge13
E
There are approximately 84,000 dams in the United States today. Catastrophic dam failures have
occurred frequently throughout the past century. Between 1918 and 1958, 33 major U.S. dam
failures caused 1,680 deaths. From 1959 to 1965, nine major dams failed worldwide. Some of
the largest disasters in the U.S. have resulted from dam failures. More than 90 dam incidents,
including 23 dam failures, were reported in the past ten years to the National Performance of
170
Dams Program, which collects and archives information on dam performance from state and
federal regulatory agencies and dam owners.
The State of Texas has not experienced loss of life or extensive economic damage due to a dam
failure since the first half of the twentieth century. However, there may be many incidents that
are not reported and, therefore, the actual number of incidents is likely to be greater.
Brazos County has had two (2) reported dam failures in the planning arealo:
• 2017 — Clifty Creek Lake (Spillway Breech)
• 2002/2003 — Lake Linda (Dam Breech)
Future Probability
Based on historical occurrences and the changing climate, the soil in Brazos County shrinks and
swells frequently causing the shrinkage of settlement leading to instability over time. It is
possible for an occurrence; the risk of dam failure is monitored closely. Due to the lack of
historical occurrences, the probability of a future event is unlikely for those jurisdictions
profiling dam failure as a hazard, meaning an event is possible in the next ten years.
Climate Change
Climate change could affect the safety of all dam structures, including large and small dams and
earthen or concrete dams. Specifically, significant changes in a region's climate, such as
increased incidence of extreme temperatures and the increased frequency of heavy precipitation,
could seriously impact the integrity and viability of dams in Brazos County and its participating
entities.
Potential Damages and Losses
There are thirty-eight (38) dams in the Brazos County planning area. The majority of the dams
were evaluated in-depth to determine the risk, if any, associated with each dam. It is critical to
note that many of the studies on the dams are missing the inundation studies because they are
"privately" owned dams and are the responsibility of the owners to conduct.
Flooding is the most prominent effect of dam failure. If the dam failure is extensive, a large
amount of water would enter the downstream waterways forcing them out of their banks. There
may be significant environmental effects, resulting in flooding that could disperse debris and
hazardous materials downstream that can damage local ecosystems. If the event is severe, debris
carried downstream can block traffic flow, cause power outages, and disrupt local utilities, such
as water and wastewater, which could result in school closures.
Annualized loss -estimates for dam failure are not available; neither is there a breakdown of
potential dollar losses for critical facilities, infrastructure and lifelines, or hazardous -materials
facilities. If a major dam should fail, however, the severity of impact could be substantial. The
extent of a major dam failure in the planning area is a release of several thousand gallons of
171
water which could affect 695 buildings and over 2,000 individuals; to include critical
infrastructure such as roads, railways, farms, livestock, and buildings. The estimated cost of this
type of failure could top over $23 million (estimated). Examples of dams within the Brazos
County planning area that could cause damage in the millions if breached. (See Figure 13.1)
Extent
Table 13.2 shows a list of the high hazard dams within Brazos County. HAZUS-MH inventory
was used to estimate potential exposure, losses, and affected population due to dam failure. It
was assumed that dam break happens most likely at the time of maximum capacity and that a
downstream quarter -circle buffer (buffers that restrict sediment delivery to channels, inhibit
sediment movement along channels, and blankets drape channel or floodplain) proportional to
the maximum capacity of dams represents the maximum impact area. There have been no
previous occurrences of dam failure at high hazard dams in Brazos County. Dam inundation
maps are not currently available.
Dam Name
Hazard
Latitude/Longitude
Bryan Utilities Lake Dam
High
30.710067/-96.453721
Carter Lake Dam
High
30.594992/-96.248677
Midtown Park Lake Dam
High
30.639827/-96.358982
CSISD at Anderson St Detention Structure No. 3
High
30.613940/-96.327372
Finfeather Lake Dam
High
30.649868/-96.371041
Lake Arapaho Dam
High
30.510553/-96.250460
Leisure Lake Dam
High
30.633847/-96.411916
Nantucket Dam
High
30.543651/-96.243367
Oakland Lake Dam
High
30.776483/-96.235630
TAMU Detention Dam No. 8
High
30.621050/-96.333642
Thousand Oaks Dam No. 11
High
30.544471/-96.231595
Table: 13.3 — High Hazard Dams in Brazos County
The High Hazard Dams in Brazos County Descriptions
Bryan Utilities Lake Dam
Source: TCEQ9
Bryan Utilities Lake Dam, Texas ID TX 01869, is located in central Texas on unnamed
tributaries of Thompson's Creek and Peach Creek in the Brazos River Basin in Brazos County,
northwest of the City of Bryan.
172
North Embankment (Power Plant Embankment) - Power Plant Embankment would result in a
peak discharge of 5,993 cfs. The resulting flood wave would flow downstream from the
embankment through the Power Plant, along Elm Creek and into the Little Brazos River, where it
would be attenuated. The Power Plant, several structures and roadways would be flooded.
All roadways that could possibly be flooded should be barricaded off to prevent access into the
affected area. These streets include but are not limited to:
• Mumford Road
• Maple Drive
• West OSR
• Allen Road
South Embankment - South Embankment would result in a peak discharge of 186,585 cfs. The
resulting flood wave would flow downstream from the embankment along Thompsons Creek and
the Brazos River, where it would be attenuated. Numerous structures and roadways would be
flooded.
All roadways that could possibly be flooded should be barricaded off to prevent access into the
affected area. These streets include but are not limited to:
• FM 1687
• Britten Road
• Burt Road
• Union Pacific Railroad
• SH 21
• Silver Hill Road
• SH 47
• Bush Road
• Leonard Road
East Embankment - East Embankment would result in a peak discharge of 234,014 cfs. The
resulting flood wave would flow downstream from the embankment along Thompsons Creek and
into the Brazos River, where it would be attenuated. Numerous structures and roadways would
be flooded.
All roadways that could possibly be flooded should be barricaded off to prevent access into the
affected area. These streets include but are not limited to:
• Unnamed Street (oil service road)
• Sandy Oaks Drive
• Creekside Drive
• FM 1687
• Valley Road
• Union Pacific Railroad
• SH 21
• Silver Hill Road
173
• SH 47
• Bush Road
• Leonard Road
West Embankment - West Embankment would result in a peak discharge of 288,054
cfs. The resulting flood wave would flow downstream from the embankment along
the Little Brazos River and into the Brazos River, where it would be attenuated.
Numerous structures and roadways would be flooded.
All roadways that could possibly be flooded should be barricaded off to prevent access into the
affected area. These streets include but are not limited to:
• West OSR
• Rye Loop
• Allen Road
• Union Pacific Railroad
• FM 1687
• SH 21 (Road does not get overtopped but will flood in the area)
Official Dam Name: Bryan Utilities Lake Dam
Jurisdiction Affected: City of Bryan and Brazos County
Latitude: 30.710067 Longitude: -96.453721
Stream: Alum Creek
Location: Six miles northwest of the City of Bryan, Brazos County, Texas
Dam Owner: Bryan Texas Utilities
Dam Coordinator: Manager of Production Operations
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1975
Dam Height: 59 feet Dam Length: 17,500 feet Crest Width: 20 feet
Dam Size: Large (3)
Drainage Area: 0 square miles, groundwater is pumped into the lake
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Sluice gate
Table: 13.4 Bryan Utilities Lake Dam Information Source: TCEQ9
Carter Lake Dam
The downstream structures that could be affected by a breach of the dam include the four houses
adjacent to the spillway as well as five lots in the Williams Creek development, 3 miles
downstream. If Carter Lake Dam fails, a flood wave will move east down through the low-lying
area along Carter Creek toward William D. Fitch Road and beyond. There are no critical
facilities or infrastructure in the inundation area.
174
Official Dam Name: Carter Creek Dam Jurisdiction Affected: City of College Station
Latitude: 30.594992 Longitude: -96.248677
Stream: Unnamed Tributary of Carter Creek
Location: Six miles southeast of Bryan, TX
Dam Owner: Carter Lake Homeowners Corporation
Dam Coordinator: Head of the Dam Committee
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1966
Dam Height: 32 feet Dam Length: 1425 feet Crest Width: 26 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 228 acres (0.356 sq. miles)
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Irregular Earthen
Table: 13.5 Carter Creek Dam Information Source: TCEQ9
Midtown Park Lake Dam (formerly Country Club Lake Dam)
The number businesses that could be impacted by a dam failure is outlined below, along with
impacts to numerous roadways in the area. Additionally, Villa Maria and College Avenue are
highly trafficked roadways. So, there could be numerous motorists within the inundation area
depending on the time of day.
Official Dam Name: Midtown Park Lake Dam Jurisdiction Affected: City of Bryan
Latitude: 30.639827 Longitude: -96.358982
Stream: Burton Creek Tributary D
Location: 2.6 miles southeast of Bryan, TX
Dam Owner: City of Bryan
Dam Coordinator: The Operations Manager of the City of Bryan Transportation, Drainage
& Environmental Services Department
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1920/2023
Dam Height: 8 feet Dam Length: 1860 feet Crest Width: 18.9 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 1.4 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Principal: Morning Glory Weir, Auxiliary: Modified Ogee — Concrete,
Emergency: Broad Crest, Inlet/Outlet: Natural Creeks
Table: 13.6 Midtown Park Lake Dam Information Source: City of Bryan14
175
College Station Independent School District (CSISD) at Anderson St Detention Structure
No. 3
Multiple residences and roads downstream could be impacted by a failure of the Detention
Structure. Roads in the area typically are highly traveled.
The roads impacted are but not limited to:
• Anderson Street
• George Bush Drive
• Holk Street
• Wolf Run
Businesses impacted (but not limited to)
• A & M Consolidated Middle School
Official Dam Name: CSISD at Anderson Street Detention Structure No. 3 Dam
Jurisdiction Affected: City of College Station
Latitude: 30.613940 Longitude: -96.327372
Stream: Wolk Pen Creek
Location: Six miles southeast of Bryan, TX
Dam Owner: College Station Independent School District (CSISD)
Dam Coordinator: CSISD Inspector
Type of Dam: Reinforced concrete
Year Constructed: Undetermined
Dam Height: 11.7 feet Dam Length: 90 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 0.3 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: V notch weir
Table: 13.7 CSISD at Anderson St Detention Structure No. 3 Dam Information
Fin -Feather Lake Dam
Crest Width: Unk
Source: TCEQ9
Finfeather Lake, located upstream of Bryan Municipal Lake, is also a small lake (18.5 acres),
which is fed by an unnamed tributary within an industrial area of Bryan, Texas. It is bordered by
Fountain Street on the west side and South College Ave on the east side. Most of the impacts
from a dam failure would be commercial businesses. Depending on the size of the breach
residential homes on the west side could be affected.
176
Official Dam Name: Fin -Feather Lake Dam Jurisdiction Affected: City of Bryan
Latitude: 30.649868 Longitude: -96.371041
Stream: TR-Burton Creek
Location: Northwest Bryan in Brazos County
Dam Owner: Union Pacific Railroad Company
Dam Coordinator: Union Pacific Railroad Company
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1930
Dam Height: 16 feet Dam Length: 1310 feet Crest Width: Unk
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 0.4 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Uncontrolled
Table: 13.8 Fin -Feather Lake Dam Information Source: TCEQ
Lake Arapaho Dam
Multiple residences and roads downstream from the dam could be impacted as well as an
electrical substation by a dam failure.
The projected inundation area is assumed to be limited to the floodplain area along Peach Creek.
This area is vacant ranch land consisting of wooded areas mixed with open pastureland.
Inundation timing and duration is highly dependent on the rate of dam failure.
Official Dam Name: Lake Arapaho Dam
Jurisdiction Affected: Brazos County and City of College Station
Latitude: 30.510553 Longitude: -96.250460
Stream: Unnamed tributary of Peach Creek
Location: 2 miles Southwest of the intersection of State Highway 6 and State Highway 40 in
College Station in Brazos County, Texas
Dam Owner: The Villages of Indian Lakes Homeowners' Association (HOA)
Dam Coordinator: HOA Manager
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 2004
Dam Height: 37 feet Dam Length: 1572 feet Crest Width: Unk
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 0.61 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Uncontrolled, Sluice Gate, Other Controlled
Table: 13.9 Lake Arapaho Dam Information Source: TCEQ9
177
Leisure Lake Dam
Numerous residential (both permanent construction and mobile homes), an apartment complex, a
commercial water well, and several county roads would be impacted by the failure of this dam.
No formal inundation study has been done for this location.
Official Dam Name: Leisure Lake Dam Jurisdiction Affected: City of Bryan
Latitude: 30.633847 Longitude: -96.411916
Stream: Tributary of Thompsons Creek
Location: 4 miles southwest of Bryan off of Cypress Road
Dam Owner: Leisure Lake Inc.
Dam Coordinator: Leisure Lake Inc.
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1964
Dam Height: 25 feet Dam Length: 1220 feet Crest Width: 322.0 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 0.14 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Uncontrolled
Table: 13.10 Leisure Lake Dam Information
Nantucket Dam
Source: TCEQ9
Primary impacts from a dam failure at this location would be a major state highway and frontage
roads as well as impacts to several county roads and residential structures in the vicinity of the
lake.
Official Dam Name: Nantucket Lake Dam Jurisdiction Affected: City of College Station
Latitude: 30.543651 Longitude: -96.243368
Stream: Alum Creek
Location: 1/2 Miles Southeast of College Station
Dam Owner: Nantucket Preservation Association
Dam Coordinator: Nantucket Preservation Association
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1977
Dam Height: 20 feet Dam Length: 900 feet Crest Width: 12 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 1300 Acres
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Concrete Lined Channel
Table:13.11 Nantucket Lake Dam Information Source: TCEQ9
178
Oakland Lake Dam
Several structures (residential and farm use), a wellsite, and possibly one county road could be
impacted by the failure of this rural dam.
Official Dam Name: Oakland Lake Dam
Latitude: 30.543651
Stream: Allcorn Creek
Location: Near 5085 North Oakland
Dam Owner: The Falls Subdivision
Dam Coordinator: The Falls Subdivision
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1960
Dam Height: 32 feet Dam Length: 2387 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 6 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Uncontrolled
Table:13.12 Oakland Lake Dam Information
TAMU Detention Dam No. 8
Jurisdiction Affected: Brazos County
Longitude: -96.243368
Crest Width: Unk
Source: TCEQ9
The number of people and structures that could be impacted by a dam failure is Texas Avenue
and George Bush Drive which are highly trafficked roadways. So, there could be numerous
motorists within the inundation area depending on the time of day13
Official Dam Name: TAMU Detention Dam No. 8
Jurisdiction Affected: City of College Station and Texas A&M University
Latitude: 30.621050 Longitude: -96.333642
Stream: Unnamed Tributary of Wolf Pen Creek
Location: Along New Main Dr. from Texas Ave.
Dam Owner: The Texas A&M University System
Dam Coordinator: The Texas A&M University System
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 2002
Dam Height: 8.2 feet Dam Length: 2037 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 0.5 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Uncontrolled
Table: 13.13 TAMU Detention Dam No. 8 Information
Crest Width: 20 feet
Source: TAMU'5
179
Thousand Oaks Dam No. 11
The projected inundation area is assumed to be limited to the floodplain area along Alum Creek.
This area is vacant ranch land consisting of wooded areas mixed with open pastureland.
Inundation timing and duration is highly dependent on the rate of dam failure. There are no
critical facilities or infrastructure in the inundation area.
Official Dam Name: Thousand Oaks Dam No. 11
Jurisdiction Affected: City of College Station
Latitude: 30.544471 Longitude: -96.231595
Stream: Alum Creek
Location: 1 mile Southeast of the intersection of State Highway 6 and State Highway 40 in
College Station in Brazos County, Texas..
Dam Owner: Animate Habitat, Ltd. (AH)
Dam Coordinator: Animate Habitat, Ltd. (AH)
Type of Dam: Compacted earth fill
Year Constructed: 1930
Dam Height: 22 feet Dam Length: 900 feet Crest Width: 70 feet
Dam Size: Small
Drainage Area: 0.26 square miles
Hazard Classification: High
Principal Spillway: Uncontrolled
Table: 13.14 Thousand Oaks Dam No. 11 Information
Assessment of Impacts
Source: TCEQ9
Any individual dam has a very specific area that will be impacted by a catastrophic failure. Dams
identified as a high or significant hazard can directly threaten the lives of individuals living or
working in the inundation zone below the dam. The impact from any catastrophic failure would
be like that of a flash flood. Potential impacts for the planning area include:
➢ Lives could be lost.
> There could be injuries from impacts with debris carried by the flood.
➢ Swift -water rescue of individuals trapped by the water puts the immediate
responders at risk for their own lives.
➢ Individuals involved in the cleanup may be at risk from the debris left behind.
> Continuity of operations for any jurisdiction outside the direct impact area
could be very limited.
> Roads, bridges highways, and railways could be destroyed.
➢ Homes and businesses could be damaged or destroyed.
> Emergency services may be temporarily unavailable.
➢ Potential for the disruption of operations and the delivery of services in the
impacted area.
➢ A large dam with a high head of water could effectively scour the terrain below
it for miles, taking out all buildings and other infrastructure.
180
> Scouring force could erode soil and any buried pipelines.
➢ Scouring action of a large dam will destroy all vegetation in its path.
> Wildlife and wildlife habitat caught in the flow will likely be destroyed.
➢ Fish habitat will likely be destroyed.
> Topsoil will erode, slowing the return of natural vegetation.
➢ The destructive high velocity water flow may include substantial debris and
hazardous materials, significantly increasing the risks to life and property in its
path.
> Debris and hazardous material deposited downstream may cause further
pollution of areas far greater than the inundation zone.
> Destroyed businesses and homes may not be rebuilt, reducing the tax base, and
impacting long term economic recovery.
> Historical or cultural resources may be damaged or destroyed.
➢ Recreational activities and tourism may be temporarily unavailable or
unappealing, slowing economic recovery.
The economic and financial impacts of dam failure on the area will depend entirely on the
location of the dam, scale of the event, what is damaged, and how quickly repairs to critical
components of the economy can be implemented.
The level of preparedness and pre -event planning done by the community, local businesses, and
citizens will also contribute to the overall economic and financial conditions in the aftermath of
any dam failure event.
181
References — Section 13
1. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Dam Awareness. httvs://wwwfema.eov/sites/default/files/2020-08/fact-
sheet dam-awareness.ndf
2. Concho Valley Council of Governments. Dam Failure.
httvs://www.cvcoz.orz/cvcoz/docs/Regional services/Hazard Mitigation/10.damfailure.v4.vublic.vdf
3. Infrastructure Report Card. America's Infrastructure. httvs://www.infrastructurerevortcard.orz/2009/fact-
sheet/dams. html
4. Association of State Dam Safety Officials. Main Page. httvs://wwwdamsafetv.orz/
5. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Main Page. httvs://wwwtcea.texas.zov/
6. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Dam Safety. httvs://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-
management/dam-safetv
7. National inventory of Dams. Dams of the Nation. httvs://nid.sec.usace.armv.mil/#/
8. Federal Emergency Management Agency. National Flood Hazard Layer. httvs://www.fema.eov/flood-mans/national-
flood-hazard-laver
9. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Guidelines for Developing Emergency Action Plan for Dams in Texas.
httvs: //www tcea. texas. zov/downloads/comvliance/vublications/zi/zi-394.vdf
10. Brazos River Authority. Main Page. httvs://brazos.orz/
11. Department of Homeland Security. National Infrastructure Protection Plan. Dams Sector
h ttvs: //www dhs. gov/xlibrarv/assets/nand/nand-d ams-sector-snayshot-508. vdf
12. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Federal Guidelines for Dam Safety. Hazard Potential Classification System
for Dams. httvs://wwwferc.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/fema-333.ndf
13. Brazos County Road and Bridge. Main Page. httvs://wwwbrazoscountvtx.zov/177/Road-Bridge-Devartment
14. City of Bryan. Street and Drainage Services. httvs://www.brvantx.zov/streets-and-drainaze-services/
15. Texas A & M University. Department of Engineering. httvs://enzineerinz.tamu.edu/industrial/index.html
16. Google Earth. (2024). Coordinates and Maps of Dams. Brazos County. Earth.google.com
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Section 14 — Excessive and Extreme Heat
Hazard Description
Excessive or extreme heat is a prolonged period of excessively or extreme
high temperatures and exceptionally humid conditions. Excessive or
extreme heat during the summer months is a common occurrence
throughout the State of Texas, and Brazos County is no exception. The
entire planning area, including all participating entities, typically
experiences extended heat waves. A heat wave is an extended period of
extreme heat and is often accompanied by high humidity.
Although heat can damage buildings and facilities, it presents a more
significant threat to the safety and welfare of citizens. The major human
risks associated with severe summer heat include heat cramps; sunburn;
dehydration; fatigue; heat exhaustion; and even heat stroke.
The most vulnerable population to heat casualties are children and the
elderly or infirmed who frequently live on low fixed incomes and cannot
afford to run air-conditioning on a regular basis. This population is
sometimes isolated, with no immediate family or friends to look out for
their well-being2.
Hazardous Areas
While there have been no deaths reported from excessive or extreme heat
in the planning area, there is no specific geographic scope to the extreme
heat hazard. Excessive or extreme heat could occur anywhere within the
Brazos County planning area, including all participating entities.
The magnitude or intensity of an excessive or extreme heat incident is
measured according to temperature in relation to the percentage of
humidity3. (See Table: 14.1) According to the National Oceanic
Atmospheric Administration3, this relationship is referred to as the "Heat
Index" and is depicted in Table: 14.23. This index3 measures how hot it
feels outside when humidity is combined with high temperatures (See
Table: 14.1)3. Located below is a chart that shows the heat indices and the
possible heat disorders that could affect all populations within the planning
area3. (Table: 14.3)
QUICK FACTS
Hvperthermia
A group of heat illnesses like heat
exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat Cramps
Painful muscle spasms that occur due
to dehydration and loss of nutrients
from excessive sweating.
Heat Exhaustion
The body's response to an excessive
loss of water and salt, usually
through excessive sweating.
Heat Stroke
It occurs when the body can no
longer control its temperature: the
body's temperature rises rapidly, the
sweating mechanism fails, and the
body is unable to cool down.
Dehydration
Occurs when you use or lose more
fluid than you take in, and your body
doesn't have enough water and other
fluids to carry out its normal
functions.
Sunburn
A radiation burns to the skin caused
by too much exposure to the sun's
ultraviolet (UV) rays or artificial
sources such as tanning beds.
Source: Texas Department of State
Health Services (DSHS)1
184
E
a
vcc
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
90
95
100
Temperatures (°F) Temperatures (°F)
80 - 88: CAUTION
80 - 88: CAUTION
80 - 86: CAUTION
80 - 86: CAUTION
80 - 84: CAUTION
80 - 84: CAUTION
80 - 84: CAUTION
80 - 82: CAUTION
80 - 82: CAUTION
80 - 82: CAUTION
80: CAUTION
80: CAUTION
80: CAUTION
40
45
50
55
60
73
E 65
70
75
cc 80
85
90
95
100
90 - 96: EXTREME CAUTION
90 - 94: EXTREME CAUTION
88 - 94; EXTREME CAUTION
88 - 92: EXTREME CAUTION
86 - 90: EXTREME CAUTION
86 - 90: EXTREME CAUTION
86 - 88: EXTREME CAUTION
84 - 88: EXTREME CAUTION
84 - 86: EXTREME CAUTION
84 - 86: EXTREME CAUTION
82 - 84: EXTREME CAUTION
82 - 84: EXTREME CAUTION
82 - 84: EXTREME CAUTION
40
45
50
55
60
E 65
70
76 75
v
80
85
90
95
100
Temperatures (°F)
98 - 106: DANGER
96 - 104: DANGER
96 -102: DANGER
94 - 100: DANGER
92-98:DANGER
92-96:DANGER
90-94:DANGER
90-94:DANGER
88 - 92: DANGER
88-90:DANGER
86-90:DANGER
86-88:DANGER
86 - 88: DANGER
40
45
50
55
60
65
v 70
n
75
v
1r 80
Likelihood of Heat Disorders with
Prolonged Exposure or Strenuous Activity
Table: 14.1 — Humidity and Temperature Likelihood of Heat Disorders
Air Temperature (°F)
Relative Humidity (%)
1400 10 20 30 40 50 60 TO 80
130
120
110
100
90
90
80 sO
EXTREMELY 07
HEAT INDE
139
120
110
TO
100
60
Table: 14.2 — Heat Index
Parent -r,,raturts ( F
90 100
Source: NOAA3
85
90
95
100
temperatures
DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER I8. 110: EXTREME DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER
110: EXTREME DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER
- 110: EXTREME DANGER
L1L
10.. EXTREME DANGER
0: EXTREME DANGER
Source: NOAA3
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Heat Index/Apparent Possible Heat Disorders For People in High Risk
Temperature (*F) Groups
130°F or Higher
Heat/Sunstroke HIGHLY LIKELY with continued
exposure
105°F - 130°F
90°F - 105°F
Sunstroke, heat cramps, or heat exhaustion
LIKELY, and heatstroke POSSIBLE with prolonged
exposure andlor physical activity
Sunstroke, heat cramps, or heat exhaustion
POSSIBLE with prolonged exposure andlor
physical activity
80°F - 90°F
Fatigue POSSIBLE with prolonged exposure
andlor physical activity
Table: 14.3 — Heat Index/Temperature and Heat Disorders Source: NOAA3
Previous Occurrences
Every summer, the hazard of heat -related illness becomes a significant public health issue
throughout much of the US. Mortality from all causes increases during heat waves, and extreme
or excessive heat is an important contributing factor to deaths from other causes, particularly
among the elderly and children. To date there have been no excessive or extreme heat casualties
in Brazos County. Table: 14.4, depicts historical occurrences of mortality from heat from 2000-
2020 from the Texas Department of State Health Services' database, where 279 people (Texas)
died due to heat related causes. This figure shows resident and non-resident deaths.
250
200
150
1
A major drought in 2011
pushed the average
summer temperature to
nearly 87 degrees, the
highest since 1999.
= H����I�iN�1�hlll
Non-resident deaths
Resident deaths
Table: 14.4 — Historical Deaths Related to Heat (Texas)
Source: Texas Department of State Health Services' Database
Future Probability
Average high temperatures for the planning area through the summer months indicate a
probability of one event or more every year. This frequency supports a highly likely probability
of future incidents.
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The United States sees an average of 702 deaths per year from the effects of extreme or
excessive heat with 67,512 emergency room visits, and 9,235 hospitalizations4.
A hot day in Brazos County is considered to be any day above a "feels like" temperature of
110°F. Brazos County is expected to experience 7 hot days this year. Due to a changing
climate/environment, Brazos County will experience 14 days above 110°F in 30 years5.
One of the resulting effects of heat is the increase in energy usage that occurs as homes and
businesses try to keep cool indoors. Based on heat projections for this year in Brazos County it is
estimated that the use of air conditioning would cause an increase in energy consumption on 289
days annually.
This risk may become even more pronounced in 30 years, as the number of cooling days is
expected to increase to 302 days per year. This increase in need for cooling is expected to
increase Brazos County's electricity usage for cooling purposes by 8.80%.
Heat risks are changing because of climate/environment change. A changing
climate/environment means higher average temperatures and increased humidity, which has a
compounding effect on heat indices that make risky heat events possible. As the global
temperature rises, it can be important to understand what factors contribute to heat risk.
Historical data and climate models lead to similar conclusions6. If recent trends continue, as
expected, a middle-of-the-road estimate of the overall rate of temperature increase in Texas
would be about 0.6 °F per decade6. This means that average Texas temperatures in 2036 should
be expected to be about 1.6 °F warmer than the 2000-2018 average and 3.0 °F warmer than
the 1950-1999 average6. This would make a typical year around 2036 warmer than all, but the
absolute warmest year experienced in Texas during 1895-20186.
Our climate is changing because the earth is warming. In Texas, a good benchmark for excessive
or extreme heat is the number of 100+ °F days each year6. The number of 100-degree days is
closely related to the average summertime temperature6. At rural and semi -urban index stations,
where 2000-2018 July -August average temperatures average around 83 °F, there are typically
about 12 days per year that reach or exceed 100 °F6. If summertime temperatures rise at a similar
rate as the projected annual Texas average, the typical number of 100-degree days would nearly
double, to about 21 per year, by 20366.
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Figure: 14.1 shows the daily temperature for the current season verses historical data to show
that there have been higher than usual temperatures in the Brazos County planning area and that
temperatures are expected to rise. People have increased the amount of carbon dioxide in the air
by 40 percent since the late 1700s7. Other heat -trapping greenhouse gases are also increasing'.
These gases have warmed the surface and lowered the atmosphere of our planet by about one
degree during the last 50 years7.
Daily Maximum Temperature for Current Season Compared to Historical Average
Current Y7D (2C23) El Historical Average (1979-2020(
110
100
u90 90713av ThresFnl{�
£
E
s so
70
June • 1
July - 1
Date
Figure: 14.1 — Historical Average Temperatures (1979-2023)
Climate Change
August • 1
September - I
Source: EPA7
As previously mentioned, climate change may increase the frequency or intensity of hazards over
time. The U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit, Climate Explorer8 provides projected climate
conditions for counties across the United States. Projections for two long-term climate scenarios
were calculated for temperature. One scenario describes a future in which humans stop
increasing harmful emissions by 2040 and then continue to reduce emissions through the end of
the century (Lower Emissions)8. The second scenario describes a future in which harmful
emissions continue to increase through the end of the century (Higher Emissions)8. The data
show that emissions could impact climate, specifically excessive or extreme heat, in Brazos
County and its participating entities over the next 80 years causing the number of 100°F days per
year to steadily increase over time8.
Potential Damages and Losses
There is no defined geographic boundary for excessive or extreme heat events. While the entire
Brazos County planning area, including all participating entities, is exposed to excessive or
extreme temperatures, existing buildings, infrastructure, and critical facilities are not likely to
sustain significant damage from excessive or extreme heat incidents. Therefore, any estimated
property losses associated with the excessive or extreme heat hazard are anticipated to be
minimal across the area.
Excessive or extreme temperatures do, however, present a significant threat to life and safety for
the population of the County as a whole. Heat casualties, for example, are typically caused by a
lack of adequate air-conditioning or heat exhaustion. The most vulnerable population to heat
casualties are the elderly, children, or infirmed who frequently live on low or fixed incomes and
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cannot afford to run air-conditioning on a regular basis. This population is sometimes isolated,
with no immediate family or friends to look out for their well-being.
In addition, populations living below the poverty level are unable to run air-conditioning on a
regular basis and are limited in their ability to seek medical treatment9. Another segment of the
population at risk are those whose jobs consist of strenuous labor outdoors9. Additionally,
livestock and crops can become stressed, decreasing in quality or in production, during times of
extreme heat9.
Students in the planning area are also susceptible as sporting events and practices are often held
outside during early fall or late spring when temperatures are at the highest9. Approximately
thirty faculty or staff work outdoors for portions of the school day9. The planning area includes
several athletic fields that may have ongoing athletic activities that would need to be closely
monitored during excessive or extreme heat incidents9.
Excessive or extremely high temperatures can have significant secondary impacts, leading to
droughts, water shortages, increased fire danger, and prompt excessive demands for energy10
The possibility of rolling blackouts increases with unseasonably high temperatures in what is a
normally mild month with low power demands10
Typically, more than 12 hours of warning time would be given before the onset of an excessive
or extreme heat incident10. Only minor property damage would result'0. The potential impact of
excessive or extreme summer heat is considered "Minor" as injuries and/or illnesses do not result
in permanent disability for the Brazos County planning area, including all participating entities.
In terms of vulnerability to structures, the impact from excessive or extreme heat would be
negligible01. It is possible that critical facilities and infrastructure could be shut down for 24
hours or more, if cooling units are running constantly, leading to a temporary power outage10
Less than ten percent of residential and commercial property could be damaged if excessive or
extreme heat incidents lead to structure fires'°
The potential impact of excessive or extreme heat for the entire Brazos County planning area can
be considered "Minor," resulting in few injuries and minimal disruption to the quality of life.
A potential dollar loss estimate for extreme or excessive heat is not available currently.
Extent
Texas is known for its long hot summers. These conditions can pose problems for those not
accustomed to the climate or who are outside for prolonged periods of time. A prolonged period
of dangerous excessive heat is expected within about 24 hours. The combination of hot
temperatures and high humidity will create a dangerous situation in which heat related illnesses
are likely14. The National Weather Service has updated the heat advisory criteria for southeast
Texas for 202414. A heat advisory will be issued when the heat index rises to 108 or when the
temperature reaches 10314. Unlike 2023, these criteria only need to be met or forecasted for one
day for the advisory to go into effect14. A new advisory named "Excessive Heat Warning" has
189
been added to the list for 2024. It will be issued when the temperature reaches 105 or the heat
index reaches 11314
Excessive heat can pose a threat even to individuals and communities that are accustomed to
high temperatures. Heat disorders can occur when victims are overexposed to heat or have over -
exercised for their age and physical condition. Heat kills by pushing the body beyond its limits.
Under normal conditions an internal thermostat produces perspiration that evaporates and cools
the body. In excessive heat and high humidity, however, evaporation is slowed, and the body
must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.
Excessive heat kills more people nationally than any other natural disaster. According to the
Center for Climatic Research at the University of Delaware, an average of 1,500 American
people die every year from the effects of excessive heath
Elderly residents, young children, those who are overweight, and people suffering from serious
illnesses are especially prone to heat -related problems. Excessive heat disorders include sunburn,
heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency12.
According to the National Aeronautical and Space Administration, recent years have seen record -
breaking temperatures. NASA13 analysis confirms 2023 as warmest year on record; 2002 was the
second- warmest year on record; and 2001 was the third -warmest year on record. But due to
climate change, The United States has warmed by about 1.5°F since 1895, with most of the rise
occurring since 1970. Figure: 14.2, shows a map of the earth and the global surface temperature
anomalies or how much warmer or cooler each region of the planet was compared to the average
from 1951 to 1980. Normal temperatures are shown in white, higher -than -normal temperatures in
red and orange, and lower -than -normal temperatures in blue13
Figure: 14.2 - Global Surface Temperature Anomalies (2023)
Source: NASA13
190
If the world continues to increase emissions of carbon pollution, the country could see 5°F to
10°F of additional warming by the end of the century. Increases in extreme heat could cause a
dramatic rise in illnesses and deaths by the end of the century4.
Assessment of Impacts
The greatest risk from excessive or extreme heat is to public health and safety. Potential impacts
to the community may include:
D. Vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, infants, and children can face
serious or life -threatening health problems from exposure to excessive or
extreme heat including hyperthermia, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat
stroke (or sunstroke).
D. Response personnel, including utility workers, public works personnel, and any
other professions where individuals are required to work outside, are more
subject to excessive or extreme heat related illnesses since their exposure would
typically be greater.
D. High energy demand periods can outpace the supply of energy, potentially
creating the need for rolling brownouts which would elevate the risk of illness
to vulnerable residents.
D. Highways, roads, and infrastructure may be damaged by excessive or extreme
heat causing asphalt roads to soften and concrete roads to shift or buckle, as
well as infrastructure damages through shifting and shrinking of the clay soil,
throughout the planning area.
D. Vehicles, engines, and cooling systems typically run harder during excessive or
extreme heat incidents resulting in increases in mechanical failures.
D. Excessive or extreme heat events during times of drought can exacerbate the
environmental impacts associated with drought, decreasing water and air quality
and further degrading wildlife habitat.
➢ Excessive or extreme heat increases ground -level ozone (smog), increasing the
risk of respiratory illnesses.
D. Food suppliers can anticipate an increase in food costs due to increases in
production costs and crop and livestock losses.
> Fisheries may be negatively impacted by extreme heat, suffering damage to fish
habitats (either natural or man-made) and a loss of fish and/or other aquatic
organisms due to decreased water flows or availability.
D. Negatively impacted water suppliers may face increased costs resulting from
the transport of water resources or development of supplemental water
resources.
D. Outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and camping activities may see an
increase in injury or illness during excessive or extreme heat incident.
The impact of excessive heat increases as the population grows. More people may be exposed to
extreme hot temperatures, further increasing energy demand, etc.
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The economic and financial impacts of excessive or extreme heat on the community will depend
on the duration of the incident, demand for energy, drought associated with excessive or extreme
heat, and many other factors.
The level of preparedness and the amount of planning done by the jurisdiction, local businesses,
and citizens will impact the overall economic and financial conditions before, during, and after
an excessive or extreme heat incident.
192
References — Section 14
1. Texas Department of State Health Services. Health and Human Services. httns://www.dshs.texas.Qov/
2. Heat. Who is Most at Risk to Extreme Heat. httns://wwwheat.Qov/pages/who-is-at-risk-to-extreme-heat
3. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Extreme Heat: A Resource Guide. httns://www.noaa.Qov/media-
advisorv/extreme-heat-media-resource-guide
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Extreme Heat. https://www.cdc.Qov/disasters/extremeheat/index.html
5. Risk Factor. Brazos County. https://riskfactor.com/county/Brazos-county-tx/48041fsid/heat
6. Climate Texas. Texas A & M University. Main Page. httns://climatexas.tamu.edu/
7. Environmental Protection Agency. Extreme Heat. httvs://www.eva.gov/natural-disasters/extreme-heat
8. US Climate Change Resilience Toolkit. Climate Explorer. https://toolkit.climate.zov/tool/climate-explorer-0
9. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. How Disasters Affect People of Low Socioeconomic
Status. httns://wwwsamhsa.uov/sites/default/files/dtac/srb-low-ses 2.pdf
10. San Antonio Hazard Mitigation Action Plan. 2019.
https: //www saoemvrepare.com/Portals/16/Files/Plans/planHMAP.pdf?ver=2017-03-01-001439-567
11. The University of Delaware. (2024) Earth, Ocean, & Environment.
httvs://www.udel.edulacademics/collezes/ceoe/research/
12. Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2024). Extreme Heat.
httvs: //community. fema. eov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Extreme-Heat.
13. National Aeronautical and Space Administration. (2023). Extreme Heat. httns://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-
analvsis-confirms-2023-as-warmest-vear-on-record/.
14. The National Weather Service. (2015) NWS changes criteria for issuing a Heat Advisory for SE Texas.
https: //abc13.com/heat-advisory-explanation-david-tillman-weather/851269/.
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Section 15 — Infectious Diseases
Hazard Description
An infectious disease is a clinically evident disease resulting from the
presence of pathogenic microbial agents. According to FEMA, infectious
diseases are a major threat around the world, killing millions globally
each year. Transmission of an infectious disease may occur through one
or more means including physical contact with infected individuals.
These infecting agents may also be transmitted through liquids, food,
bodily fluids, contaminated objects, airborne inhalation, or through
vector -borne dissemination.
There are three classifications of disease impacts: endemic, epidemic,
and pandemic. An endemic is always present at a low frequency, such as
chicken pox in the United States. An epidemic is a sudden severe
outbreak of disease, such as the bubonic plague during Medieval Times.
A pandemic is an epidemic that becomes very widespread and affects a
whole region, a continent, or the world, for example COVID 19, which is
still currently impacting every corner of the world. In recent years, fears
of pandemic have risen because the globalized economy and
growing population fosters large scale international travel and trade.
Growing populations increase vulnerability because more densely
populated areas increase the risk of exposure to an infectious disease,
allowing the disease to rapidly advance the spread of the infection.
There are many different types of infectious diseases. Due to the rise in
certain diseases, Brazos County and its participating entities are working
closely with the Brazos County Health District to closely monitor certain
diseases that have affected the planning area.
The top ten infectious diseases by the number of deaths in 2021,
according to the World Health Organization (WHO)1 are COVID-19,
chronic respiratory diseases, lower respiratory diseases, diarrheal
diseases, Tuberculosis, Malaria, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, and Measles.
(Table 15.1).
OUICK FACTS
Endemic
A disease outbreak is endemic when it
is consistently present but limited to a
particular region. This makes the
disease spread and rates predictable.
Malaria, for example, is considered
endemic in certain countries and
regions.
Epidemic
An unexpected increase in the number
of disease cases in a specific geography
Yellow fever, smallpox, measles, and
polio are prime examples of epidemics.
An epidemic disease doesn't necessanly
have to be contagious.
West Nile fever and the rapid increase
in obesity rates are also considered
epidemics.
Epidemics can refer to a disease or
other specific health -related behavior
(e.g., smoking) with rates that are
clearly above the expected occurrence
in a community or regional area.
Pandemic
The World Health Organization (WHO)
declares a pandemic when a disease's
growth is exponential.
This means the growth rate skyrockets,
and each day cases grow more than the
day prior.
In being declared a pandemic, the virus
has nothing to do with virology,
population immunity, or disease
severity.
It means a virus covers a wide area,
affecting several countries and
populations.
Source. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC)12
195
Table 15.1— Top Ten Infectious Diseases
Rank Infectious Diseases Estimated Global Deaths in 2021
1 COVID-19 7.89 roil ion
2 Chronic Respiratory Diseases 4.41mill on
3 Lower Respiratory Infections 2.18 roil ion
4 Diarrheal Diseases 1.17 roil ion
5 Tuberculosis 1.16 inil,ion
6 Malaria 748,000
7 HIVAIDS 718,000
8 Meningitis 214,000
9 Hepatitis 71,800
10 Measles 56,000
Source: WHO'
While all these diseases are monitored by Brazos County on a regular basis, the primary disease
of concern at the time of this planning process was the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) due to
its rapid spread and impact on the global economy. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused
by a recently discovered coronavirus.
Explanation of Diseases
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID 19)11
The new name of this disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19. In
COVID-19, 'CO' stands for 'corona,"VI' for 'virus,' and 'D' for the disease, which is caused by
the caused by SARS-CoV 2, according to the WHO'. Most people infected with the COVID-19
virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special
treatment. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease,
diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.
The COVID-1911 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose
when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it's important that you also practice respiratory
etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow). Many months into the COVID-19
pandemic, the coronavirus is still spreading uncontrolled through the country and throughout the
world. Public health authorities including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC)12 and the World Health Organization (WHO)' recommend citizens to remain six feet
apart, wash hands frequently, disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and wear masks There is a
growing school of evidence that COVID-1911 cases are transmitted through aerosols (sometimes
referred to as airborne).
Like communities around the globe, Brazos County and participating entities have been
dramatically impacted by this virus with an average of 782 new confirmed cases and 7 related
deaths per day at the peak of the virus surge. The economic impact of the virus has been highly
impacted for the planning area. With no immediate relief on the horizon, economic recovery is
likely to take years. The COVID-19 infection was declared a pandemic by the World Health
196
Organization on March 11, 2020. Currently there are three vaccinations that are FDA approved
and that the CDC12 recommends: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax, to protect against
serious illness from COVID-19. It is recommended that everyone aged 5 years and older should
get 1 dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.
Children aged 6 months-4 years need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccines to be up to date,
including at least 1 dose of updated COVID-19 vaccine. People who are moderately or severely
immunocompromised may get additional doses of updated COVID-19 vaccine12.
The CDC contains the latest information and guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic and provides
recommendations on protecting citizens and reducing the spread of the disease.
Since March 2020, there have been over 78,000 COVID-19 cases and 453 fatalities reported in
Brazos County and its participating entities as of December 5, 202319. Most individuals infected
with COVID-19 did not require hospitalization. While the length of symptoms is still being
studied, most patients experience symptoms for a few days to one week but can be infectious for
up to ten days, even after symptoms have subsided.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
(AIDS)5
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)5 is spread through bodily fluids such as blood, semen,
vaginal fluids, and breast milk. In the United States, HIV is most commonly transmitted from
one person to another through unprotected anal or vaginal sex and through sharing needles or
other drug paraphernalia. Transmission also can occur through transfusion of blood or its
components from infected persons. In addition, a mother can pass HIV to her baby during
pregnancy, during labor, or through breastfeeding. HIV infection is diagnosed by testing blood or
saliva for antibodies to the virus or by directly testing for the presence of the virus. HIV damages
the immune system leading to immunodeficiency; that is, the immune system is deficient in its
ability to fight off infectious agents and cancers.
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)5 is the clinical stage of infection with HIV. The
time from HIV infection to the development of AIDS is extremely variable ranging from less
than one year to over 15 years. The term most often used for people who are HIV positive is
"person living with HIV/AIDS."5
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention12 estimates that over one million persons, aged
13 years and older, are living with HIV infection. In the United States, gay, bisexual, and other
men who have sex with men are considered most at risk of HIV infections.
In 2021, there were 100,700 people living with HIV in Texas. Currently, at the time of this
information collection there are 256 people in Brazos County infected with HIV15. To date, there
are no vaccinations or cures for HIV but there are treatments available. The CDC recommends
that a person diagnosed with HIV/AIDS start the pills or shots that are FDA approved to help
reduce the amount of HIV carried in their blood (viral load). Some of these medications have
decreased a patient's viral load so much that the patients viral load has been deem undetectable
197
or untransmutable; meaning that patient can no longer transmit HIV through sex and reduces the
risk of spread from sharing needless.
People cannot become infected through ordinary day-to-day contact such as kissing, hugging,
shaking hands, or sharing personal objects, food, or water. Symptoms associated with HIV can
vary depending on the stage but generally can includes:
• Fever
• Headache
• Rash
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Diarrhea
• Cough
The risk of HIV infection can be reduced by using condoms during sex, getting tested for HIV
and other sexually transmitted infections, using harm reduction services for people using
intravenous drugs, and administering antiretroviral therapy (ART). There is no cure for HIV
infection. Currently, an HIV positive individual must take daily ART12.
Foodborne Illnesses17
Foodborne disease is a term used to describe illnesses resulting from the consumption of
contaminated foods. These diseases may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or toxins produced by
these organisms. Contamination may occur during food production and preparation via
inadequate sanitization, improper food handling, or holding food items at inadequate
temperatures17. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)12 estimate that one in six
Americans, approximately 48 million people, have a foodborne illness each year.
Additionally, foodborne diseases kill thousands in the United States each year and cause billions
of dollars in healthcare -related and industry costs annually17.
Foodborne disease rates in Brazos County and the participating entities are significantly higher
than those reported for Texas. Foodborne diseases are commonly underreported, and only a small
proportion of illnesses are confirmed by laboratory testing; as a result, the higher Brazos County
and participating entities rates could reflect an increased disease burden, or a higher proportion
of diseases identified and reported as compared to Texas overall. Nationally, the price tag in costs
of treatment, lost work hours, and premature deaths is estimated at $4.1 billion a year, according
to the USDA. To date, there are 996 cases reported12.
The most common foodborne diseases reported in Brazos County and participating entities, and
Texas were Salmonellosis, Campylobacteriosis, and Shigellosis. Other forms of foodborne
diseases are Cyclosporiasis, E Coli, which are listed in Table 15.2.
Commonly associated with contaminated food, water, or contact with infected animals,
salmonellosis has been associated with many food items and animal exposures over the past few
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years. Nationally, salmonellosis is identified more frequently in children which is also the case in
Brazos County and participating entities. Salmonella is a leading culprit, with an estimated 1.35
million infections a year18.
Campylobacteriosis is associated with eating raw or undercooked poultry, raw milk dairy
products, contaminated produce and drinking water. In the last 5 years (2018-2022) there have
been 282 cases reported in Brazos County and the participating entities19
Shigellosis is an illness caused by Shigella bacteria. It is transmitted by hand-to-mouth contact
with stool (feces) from a sick person or animal, eating contaminated foods, or drinking
contaminated water. Children and people who work in day care facilities are prone to contracting
this disease. Other ways of contracting the disease may be through sexual practices or caring for
someone who has Shigellosis; or traveling to other countries where the food/water supply is
contaminated and unsafe. In the last 5 years (2018-2022) there have been 52 cases reported in
Brazos County and the participating entities. These numbers are currently down due to the
increase in hand washing and sanitizing due to COVID 19 recommendations19
Vector borne Diseases
Malaria6
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a
certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick
with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu -like illness. Four kinds of malaria parasites infect
humans: Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, and P. malariae. In addition, P. knowlesi, a
type of malaria that naturally infects macaques in Southeast Asia, also infects humans, causing
malaria that is transmitted from animal to human ("zoonotic" malaria). P. falciparum is the type
of malaria that is most likely to result in severe infections and if not promptly treated, may lead
to death. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be
prevented6.
About 2,000 cases of malaria are diagnosed in the United States each year. Most cases in the
United States are in travelers and immigrants returning from parts of the world where malaria
transmission occurs, including sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia6. Currently, as of August 2023,
there has been one (1) case of Malaria reported in Texas. Currently, there are no reported cases of
Malaria in the planning area.
Early symptoms include:
• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
However, some types of malaria can cause severe illness and death. Symptoms of severe malaria
include:
• Extreme tiredness and fatigue
• Impaired consciousness
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• Multiple convulsions
• Difficulty breathing
• Dark or bloody urine
• Jaundice
• Abnormal breathing
Infants, children under five, pregnant women, travelers, and people with HIV or AIDS are at
higher risk of infection. Malaria infections can be prevented by using mosquito nets, repellants,
using window screens and wearing protective clothing. There are also two WHO -recommended
vaccines available for those in endemic countries. Multiple medicines can be used to treat
Malaria. Treatment is dependent on several factors such as the type of malaria, drug resistance,
weight, and age, and whether the individual is pregnant or not6.
West Nile Virus20
West Nile virus infection20 is the most common vector borne disease in the United States. In
nature, the West Nile virus is spread between mosquitos and birds. Infected mosquitos will infect
birds while getting a blood meal. Mosquitos can become infected by feeding on infected birds20.
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.
Transmission also may occur through blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to
baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. Most people with a West Nile virus infection
experience a fever with headache, body aches, and joint pains. Severe symptoms in some people
include encephalitis or meningitis20.
In 2023, The state of Texas reported 84 cases of the West Nile Virus. Which displays the most
cases reported in the United States for 202312. While there were no cases reported in the planning
area, there were mosquitoes trapped within the planning area carrying the West Nile Virus20.
The Health District urged Brazos County and participating entities residents to take four
precautions to minimize exposure to mosquitoes carrying WNV19.
• DEET: Whenever outside, use insect repellents with the active ingredient DEET or other
EPA -registered repellents and always follow label instructions19
• Dress: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside19
• Drain: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace where
mosquitoes could lay eggs19
• All Day Long: Day, Dusk and Dawn — Limit your time outdoors, mosquitoes are active
any time, day, or night19
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Influenza A (H1N1)13
In March 2009, a novel strain of Influenza A (H1N1 or "Swine Flu")13 virus was detected in
Mexico and the United States. The virus has since spread worldwide. The Center for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that from April 12, 2009, to April 10, 2020, there were
over 60.8 million cases, 274,304 hospitalizations, and 12,469 deaths in the United States due to
the H1N1 virus12.
The most commonly reported symptoms include cough, fever, sore throat, and gastrointestinal
symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Most individuals infected with H1N1 did not require
hospitalization and had symptoms that lasted four days. The CDC12 reports that confirmed flu
activity continues to decrease for the 2019-2020 season. Currently there are no reported cases of
H1N1 in Texas or the planning area. However, DSHS reports that H1N1 is still a very contagious
form of the flu but is currently considered under controlls
H5N1 Avian Flu (Bird F1u)21
H5N 1 is a highly pathogenic avian (bird) flu virus21 that has caused serious outbreaks in
domestic poultry in parts of Asia and the Middle East. Highly pathogenic refers to the virus's
ability to produce disease. Although H5N1 does not usually infect humans, 861 cases of human
infection with avian influenza were reported globally from January 2003 to August 202021.
Most human cases of "highly pathogenic" H5N1 virus infection have occurred in people who
had recent contact with sick or dead poultry that were infected with H5N1 viruses21. About 60%
of people infected with the virus died from their illness. Unlike other types of flu, H5N1 usually
does not spread between people. The first case of H5N121 in Texas was confirmed on April 2,
2022. Currently, there are no reported cases in the planning area21.
It is rare for humans to be infected with this virus. You cannot get infected with these viruses
from properly handled and cooked poultry or eggs22. However, flu viruses are constantly
changing, and animal flu viruses can change such that they may gain the ability to infect people
easily and spread among people, causing a pandemic. Federal and State partners work jointly on
additional surveillance and testing in affected areas, following existing avian influenza response
plans22.
Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)23
Ebola is a viral hemorrhagic fever disease. Symptoms of Ebola may include fever, severe
headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or unexplained bleeding or bruising.
Symptoms may appear anywhere from 2 to 21 days after exposure to the virus, although 8 to 10
days is the most common for symptoms to occur23.
The 2014 - 2016 Ebola outbreak was centered in three countries in West Africa23. Ebola does not
pose a significant risk to the United States public, however, during this outbreak there were
eleven (11) people treated within the US. In 2014, one (1) patient was diagnosed with Ebola in
Texas. Currently, there are no known cases of Ebola in the planning area15
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Respiratory Infections2
Respiratory illnesses are common in the fall and winter, with seasonal cases of influenza, strep
throat and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, and COVID 19. Respiratory tract infections
(RTIs)2 are infections of parts of the body involved in breathing, such as the sinuses, throat,
airways, or lungs. Symptoms of an RTI include:
• a cough — you may bring up mucus (phlegm).
• Sneezing.
• a stuffy or runny nose.
• a sore throat.
• Headaches.
• muscle aches.
• breathlessness, tight chest, or wheezing.
• a high temperature.
• feeling generally unwe112.
**Upper Infections include the Common Cold, Sinusitis, Tonsillitis, and Laryngitis2.
Upper respiratory tract infections can be defined as self -limited irritation and swelling of the
upper airways with associated cough and no signs of pneumonia, in a patient with no other
condition that would account for their symptoms, or with no history of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis. Upper respiratory tract infections involve
the nose, sinuses, pharynx, larynx, and large airways2.
**Lower Infections include Bronchitis, Bronchiolitis, Chest Infections, and Pneumonia (lung
infections)2.
Lower respiratory infections are caused by a variety of microbes, including bacteria, viruses, and
fungi. Often, a lower respiratory infection can be accompanied by a cold or flu. Lower
respiratory infections can occur to anyone, but those most at risk include:
• Smokers.
• Young children.
• Adults over age 65.
• People with respiratory diseases.
• People with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV.
• People who have just had major surgery2.
Given the highly transmittable behaviors of respiratory illnesses, there has been, to date, a 4.4%
rising trend of reported respiratory illnesses and is expected to continue to rise2. Currently, Texas
and the planning area are at an activity level of "HIGH" (See Figure 15.1)
It is also worth noting that animals may also have respiratory illnesses that may be viral or
bacterial. The most common signs are:
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• Rapid breathing or continuous panting.
• Long drawn -out breathing.
• Being unable to settle and distress.
• Standing with elbows pointed outwards and the neck extended.
• Exaggerated or abnormal movement of the chest/abdomen while breathing.
• Blue gums.
• Collapse.
• Open mouth breathing (in cats)2.
and diagnosis is usually based on history, radiographs, and other laboratory tests as indicated.
Any animals having signs of a respiratory illness should be seen by a veterinarian.
n ax�a�aiaava
Figure 15.1 — Outpatient Respiratory Illness Activity Map (Reported)
Tuberculosis (TB)4
ILI Activity Level
1
Very Hlgh
•
•
• 1 High
•
• Moderate
] Lon
1 Minimal
•
Insufficient Data
Source: CDC12
Tuberculosis (TB)4 is an infectious disease that most often affects the lungs and is caused by a
type of bacteria. It spreads through the air when infected people cough, sneeze, or spit.
Tuberculosis is preventable and curable. About a quarter of the global population is estimated to
have been infected with TB bacteria4.
• A total of 1.3 million people died from TB in 2022 (including 167 000 people with
HIV)4.
• Worldwide, TB is the second leading infectious killer after COVID-19 (above HIV and
AIDS)4.
• In 2022, an estimated 10.6 million people fell ill with tuberculosis (TB) worldwide,
including 5.8 million men, 3.5 million women and 1.3 million children. TB is present in
all countries and age groups. TB is curable and preventable4.
• Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR -TB) remains a public health crisis and a health security
threat4.
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• Only about 2 in 5 people with drug resistant TB accessed treatment in 20224.
• Global efforts to combat TB have saved an estimated 75 million lives since the year
20004.
• United States - $13 billion is needed annually for TB prevention, diagnosis, treatment,
and care to achieve the global target agreed at the 2018 United Nations high level -
meeting on TB4.
Common symptoms of TB:
• prolonged cough (sometimes with blood)
• chest pain
• weakness
• fatigue
• weight loss
• fever
• night sweats
The symptoms people get depend on where in the body TB becomes active. While TB usually
affects the lungs, it also affects the kidneys, brain, spine, and skin4.
People with latent TB infection don't feel sick and aren't contagious. Only a small proportion of
people who get infected with TB will get TB disease and symptoms. Babies and children are at
higher risk4.
Certain conditions can increase a person's risk for tuberculosis disease:
• diabetes (high blood sugar)
• weakened immune system (for example, HIV or AIDS)
• being malnourished
• tobacco use
Unlike TB infection, when a person gets TB disease, they will have symptoms. These may be
mild for many months, so it is easy to spread TB to others without knowing it4.
In 2022, 7,415 Texans were exposed to TB. Of those exposed, 1,097 people were diagnosed with
TB in 2022. Texas ranks #2 among U.S. states with the most TB15. The number of cases reported
in 2022 represents an increase of 9.9 percent from 2021 when 998 cases were reported15. The
Texas TB rate in 2021 (most recent data available) was 3.38 cases per 100,000 persons15. Texas
has a higher TB case rate than the national rate. In 2022, fifty (50) Texans died of TB15
Currently, the Brazos County Health District has a Tuberculosis Elimination Clinic that offers
testing, treatment, and prevention. Brazos County Health District has identified 1,000,000 cases
in the planning area19
Diarrheal Diseases3
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Diarrheal disease3 is the second leading cause of death in children under five years old and was
responsible for the deaths of 370,000 children in 2019. The most severe threat posed by diarrhea
is dehydration. During an episode of diarrhea, water and electrolytes including sodium, chloride,
potassium, and bicarbonate are lost through liquid stools, vomit, sweat, urine and breathing. A
person with diarrhea becomes dehydrated when these losses are not replaced. In addition,
diarrhea is a major cause of malnutrition, making the person more susceptible to future bouts of
diarrhea and to other diseases3.
There are three clinical types of diarrheas, each with its specific treatments:
• Acute watery diarrhea, which may last several hours or days, and includes cholera.
• Acute bloody diarrhea, also called dysentery.
• Persistent diarrhea, lasting 14 days or longer3.
**Causes —Acute Diarrhea3
Most cases of acute, watery diarrhea are caused by viruses (viral gastroenteritis). The most
common ones in children are rotavirus and in adults are norovirus (this is sometimes called
"cruise ship diarrhea" due to well publicized epidemics). Bacteria are a common cause of
traveler's diarrhea3.
**Causes — Chronic Diarrhea3
Chronic diarrhea is classified as fatty or malabsorption, inflammatory or most commonly watery.
Chronic bloody diarrhea may be due to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which is ulcerative
colitis or Crohn's disease. Other less common causes include ischemia of the gut, infections,
radiation therapy and colon cancer or polyps. Infections leading to chronic diarrhea are
uncommon, apart from parasites3.
The most common small bowel disease in the U.S. is celiac disease, also called celiac sprue.
Crohn's disease can also involve the small bowel. Whipple's disease, tropical sprue, and
eosinophilic gastroenteritis are some of the rare conditions that can lead to malabsorption
diarrhea3.
There are many causes of watery diarrhea, including carbohydrate malabsorption such as lactose,
sorbitol, and fructose intolerance. Symptoms of abdominal bloating and excessive gas after
consuming dairy products suggest lactose intolerance24. This condition is more common in
African Americans and Asian-Americans24. Certain soft drinks, juices, dried fruits, and gums
contain sorbitol and fructose, which can lead to watery diarrhea in people with sorbitol and
fructose intolerance24. Diarrhea is a frequent side effect of antibiotics24. Certain other
medications such as NSAIDs, antacids, antihypertensives, antibiotics and antiarrhythmics can
have side effects leading to diarrhea24.
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Parasitic intestinal infections such as giardiasis can cause chronic diarrhea. Diabetes mellitus
may be associated with diarrhea due to nerve damage and bacterial overgrowth; this occurs
mainly in patients with long-standing, poorly controlled diabetes2422.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition often associated with diarrhea, constipation or
more frequently alternating diarrhea and constipation. Other common symptoms are bloating,
abdominal pain relieved with defecation and a sense of incomplete evacuation24.
Recent dietary changes can also lead to acute diarrhea. These include intake of coffee, tea, colas,
dietetic foods, gums, or mints that contain poorly absorbable sugars. Acute bloody diarrhea
suggests a bacterial cause like Campylobacter, Salmonella or Shigella or Shiga-toxin E. coli.
Traveler's diarrhea is common in those who travel to developing countries and results from
exposure to bacterial pathogens most commonly enterotoxigenic E. coli. The best method of
prevention is to avoid eating and drinking contaminated or raw foods and beverages24.
Because diarrheal infections/diseases often go unreported or undiagnosed, currently, there is no
consolidated number of people in Texas or the planning area to report. But the Brazos County
Health District reports there are cases within the area19
Measles'
Measles' infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body. Symptoms include a
high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash all over the body. Being vaccinated is the best way to
prevent getting sick with measles or spreading it to other people. Also called rubeola, measles
spreads easily and can be serious and even fatal for small children. While death rates have been
falling worldwide as more children receive the measles vaccine, the disease still kills more than
200,000 people a year, mostly children'. As a result of high vaccination rates in general, measles
hasn't been widespread in the United States in about two decades'.
Measles signs and symptoms appear around 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Signs and
symptoms of measles typically include:
• Fever.
• Dry cough.
• Runny nose.
• Sore throat.
• Inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis).
• Tiny white spots with bluish -white centers on a red background found inside the mouth
on the inner lining of the cheek — also called Koplik's spots.
• A skin rash made up of large, flat blotches that often flow into one another'.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that lives in the nose and throat mucus of an infected
person. It can spread to others through coughing and sneezing. If other people breathe the
contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can
become infected. Animals do not get or spread measles'.
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Measles can be prevented with MMR vaccine. The vaccine protects against three diseases:
measles, mumps, and rubella. CDC12 recommends children get two doses of MMR vaccine,
starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6
years of age. Teens and adults should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination. The MMR
vaccine is very safe and effective. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at
preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective. Children may also get MMRV vaccine,
which protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox)12.
Prior to vaccine introduction, annual measles incidence peaked at 85,862 in 1958 in Texas. Since
the introduction of vaccine, cases have decreased by 99.9 percent in Texas15. In 2019, Texas
experienced an increase of measles to 23 cases, the highest case count since 2013 (27 cases)15.
There are no reported cases of measles in the planning area19
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)8
Whooping cough (pertussis)8 is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. Whooping Cough
is not RSV8. In many people, it's marked by a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched
intake of breath that sounds like "whoop." The first symptoms of pertussis may be those of a
common cold, including nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, red and watery eyes, mild fever,
and a dry cough. After about one week to 2 weeks, the dry cough becomes a wet cough that
brings up thick, stringy mucus. Many babies with whooping cough don't cough at all. Instead, it
may cause them to turn blue or struggle to breathe. It may seem like a common cold for the
entire illness, not just the beginning8.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a
type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis8. The disease is only found in humans.
Whooping cough bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair -like extensions) that line part of the upper
respiratory system. The bacteria release toxins (poisons), which damage the cilia and cause
airways to swell8.
The bacteria that cause whooping cough spread easily from person to person through the air.
When a person who has whooping cough sneezes or coughs, they can release small particles with
bacteria in them. Other people then breathe in the bacteria. It also spreads when people spend a
lot of time together or share breathing space, like when you hold a newborn on your chest8.
Pertussis is known to occur in three to five-year cycles$. The last peak year in Texas was 2013
with 3,985 cases, the highest annual case count since 1959. There were 1,765 cases in 2017, and
cases have remained relatively stable in 2018 and 2019, with 1,168 and 1,320 reported cases in
2020, respectively15. Currently, there are no reported cases of Whooping Cough in the planning
area19
First symptoms appear 7-10 days after exposure and include:
• Mild fever
• Runny nose
• Cough
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Pneumonia is a relatively common complication and seizures and brain disease occur rarely.
Most people may be contagious up to 3 weeks after the cough begins. The disease is most
dangerous in infants and is a significant cause of death and disease in this age group. Antibiotics
are used to treat infections, but the best way to prevent pertussis is through immunization8.
Hepatitis16
Hepatitis16 is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and
noninfectious agents leading to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal. There are
five main strains of the hepatitis virus, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E16. While they all
cause liver disease, they differ in important ways including modes of transmission, severity of
the illness, geographical distribution, and prevention methods. In particular, types B and C lead
to chronic disease in hundreds of millions of people and together are the most common cause of
liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and viral hepatitis -related deaths. An estimated 354 million people
worldwide live with hepatitis B or C, and for most, testing and treatment remain beyond reach16.
**There are five viruses that cause the different forms of viral hepatitis: hepatitis A, B, C, D and
E16
Hepatitis A is mostly a food -borne illness and can be spread through contaminated water and
unwashed food. It is the easiest to transmit, especially in children, but is also the least likely to
damage the liver and is usually mild. About 85% of people with hepatitis A recover within three
months, and almost all recover within six months. The disease does not become chronic, and
there are no long-term health implications16
Hepatitis B can be transmitted through exposure to contaminated blood, needles, syringes, or
bodily fluids and from mother to baby. It is a chronic disorder and in some cases may lead to
long-term liver damage, liver cancer and cirrhosis of the liver after many years of carrying the
virus16.
There are two types of hepatitis B infections:
• Acute infection. When a person is first infected with hepatitis B, it is called an acute
infection. Symptoms range from no symptoms to liver failure. Usually, adults recover
from this and have no further problems16
• Chronic infection. If the virus remains in the blood for more than six months, then it is
considered a chronic infection. While most adults do not develop chronic hepatitis B,
infants and young children are less able to rid their bodies of the virus and may develop
chronic hepatitis B as a result16
Acute hepatitis B usually resolves on its own without intervention. Treatment for chronic
hepatitis B includes medications to suppress the virus and reduce the risk of long-term medical
complications16
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Hepatitis C is only transmitted through infected blood or from mother to newborn during
childbirth. It too can lead to liver cancer and cirrhosis in the long term16
Hepatitis C may develop without any signs or symptoms, or symptoms may be nonspecific and
short-lived. There are three phases of hepatitis C, and symptoms may differ depending on the
stage. Early in the disease or the first stage, called the prodromal phase, the second stage is the
preicteric phase, the third stage is the icteric phase16
Often, patients with hepatitis C do not experience any symptoms. Many are diagnosed after
routine blood works shows abnormal liver enzymes. Sometimes, patients are tested because of
their risk factors, such as exposure to needles or a history of blood transfusions Thanks to
advances in medication options, many patients with hepatitis C can be cured. Your hepatologist
or infectious disease expert will determine treatment based on your virus type16
Hepatitis D is only found in people who are also infected with hepatitis B. The hepatitis D virus
(HDV) is an RNA virus discovered in 1977 that is structurally unrelated to the hepatitis A, B or
C virus. HDV causes a unique infection that requires the assistance of viral particles from
hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate and infect other hepatocytes. Its clinical course is varied and
ranges from acute self -limited infection to acute fulminant liver failure. Chronic liver infection
can lead to end -stage liver disease and associated complications. HDV infection occurs more
commonly among adults than children16. Treatment consists primarily of support. Liver
transplantation is indicated in patients with fulminant liver failure16. Fulminant is the severe of
sudden onset of a disease or a symptom16
Hepatitis E, also called enteric hepatitis (enteric means related to the intestines), is similar to
hepatitis A, and more prevalent in Asia and Africa. It is also transmitted through the fecal -oral
route. It is generally not fatal, though it is more serious in women during pregnancy and can
cause fetal complications. Most patients with hepatitis E recover completely16. Hepatitis A and E
usually resolve after a period of four to eight weeks of illness. They do not cause chronic
hepatitis, and usually no special treatment is necessary16
In 2018, 88 cases of hepatitis A were reported in Texas, the lowest total count so far. In 2019 that
number rose to 160 cases and in 2020 rose to 223 cases, largely due to an outbreak15
Over the past 10 years, the reported incidence of acute hepatitis B has continued to decline, from
394 cases in 2010 to 50 cases in 2020. Adults ages 18 and older have consistently made up many
acute hepatitis B cases in Texas15
There are currently 387,395 Texans (1.79%) that are infected with the hepatitis C virus. County
prevalence varied from 1.25% to 2.63%, with higher rates concentrated along the US —Mexico
border. However, most cases of infection were located near major Texas cities15
Tetanus9
Tetanus9 is a disease of the nervous system caused by toxins released by the Clostridium tetani
bacteria. The tetanus bacterium enters the body through a break in the skin. Tetanus may follow
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elective surgery, burns, deep puncture wounds, crush wounds, otitis media (ear infections), dental
infection, animal bites, abortion, and pregnancy. Tetanus is not transmitted from person to
person.
Tetanus9 mainly affects the neck and abdomen. Tetanus is also known as "lockjaw" because it
often causes a person's neck and jaw muscles to lock, making it hard to open the mouth or
swallow. It also can cause breathing problems, severe muscle spasms, and seizure -like
movements. Complete recovery can take months. If left untreated, tetanus can be fatal. Tetanus is
not transmitted from one person to another. A person with tetanus is not infectious to others9.
Tetanus9 is rare in Texas, with only a total of (11) cases from 2015 through 2019. However,
people who have never been vaccinated, or who have not had a booster in recent years, are at
highest risk for tetanus. The Brazos County Health Department has clinics for onsite testing and
currently track the infections or outbreaks within the planning area19
Symptoms can include:
• Jaw cramping or inability to open the mouth.
• Muscle spasms often in the back, abdomen, or extremities.
• Sudden painful muscle spasms often triggered by sudden noises.
• Trouble swallowing.
• Seizures.
• Headaches.
• Fever and sweating.
• Changes in blood pressure or fast heart rate
Tetanus9 requires treatment in a medical facility, often in a referral hospital. However, people
who recover from tetanus do not have natural immunity and can be infected again and therefore
need to be immunized. Tetanus can be prevented through immunization with tetanus-toxoid-
containing vaccines9.
Rabiesl°
Rabies10 is a preventable viral disease most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal.
The rabies virus infects the central nervous system of mammals, ultimately causing disease in the
brain and death. Many rabies cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) each year occur in wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, although any
mammal can get rabies10
Rabies is a viral zoonotic disease that causes progressive and fatal inflammation of the brain and
spinal cord. Clinically, it has two forms:
• Furious rabies — characterized by hyperactivity and hallucinations10
• Paralytic rabies — characterized by paralysis and comalo
Although in most cases fatal, once clinical signs appear, rabies is entirely avoidable; vaccines,
medicines and technologies have long been available to prevent death from rabies. Nevertheless,
210
rabies still kills tens of thousands of people each year. Of these cases, approximately 99% are
acquired from the bite of an infected dog10
Rabies is one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTD) that predominantly affects already
marginalized, poor and vulnerable populations. Although effective human vaccines and
immunoglobulins exist for rabies, these are often not readily available or accessible to those in
need. Managing a rabies exposure, where the average cost of rabies post -exposure prophylaxis
(PEP) is currently estimated at an average of $108.00, can be a catastrophic financial burden'°
After a rabies exposure, the rabies virus must travel to the brain before it can cause symptoms.
The time between exposure and appearance of symptoms is the incubation period. It may last for
weeks to months. The incubation period may vary based on the location of the exposure site
(how far away it is from the brain), the type of rabies virus, and any existing immunity'°
The first symptoms of rabies may be like the flu, including weakness or discomfort, fever, or
headache. There also may be discomfort, prickling, or an itching sensation at the site of the bite.
These symptoms may last for days10
Symptoms then progress to cerebral dysfunction, anxiety, confusion, and agitation. As the
disease progresses, the person may experience delirium, abnormal behavior, hallucinations,
hydrophobia (fear of water), and insomnia. The acute period of disease typically ends after 2 to
10 days. Once clinical signs of rabies appear, the disease is nearly always fatal, and treatment is
typically supportive. Less than 20 cases of human survival from clinical rabies have been
documented. Only a few survivors had no history of pre- or postexposure prophylaxis'°
The signs, symptoms, and outcome of rabies in animals can vary. Symptoms in animals are often
like those in humans. These include early nonspecific symptoms, acute neurologic symptoms,
and ultimately death10
211
While rabies can be present in any animal, the following have been confirmed in Texas15. (See
Figure 15.2)
• Bat
• Bovine (Cow)
• Cat
• Dog
• Equine (Horse)
• Fox
• Goat
• Racoon
• Skunk
421
animal
•
+Cat
®ow
* Emane
0 Fox
Q Cox
• aa®n , Skunk
•
Laboratory -confirmed
rabies in
all species, 2023
•
f•
•
Map pdaLed 12,812023
Figure: 15.2 — Laboratory Rabies (all species) Texas
Know When to Wash Your Hands12
You can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially
during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:
Source: DSHS15
• Before, during, and after preparing food.
• Before and after eating food.
• Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea.
• Before and after treating a cut or wound.
• After using the toilet.
• After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet.
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste.
• After handling pet food or pet treats.
• After touching garbage.
If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to clean
your hands.
Improving Ventilation and Spending Time Outdoors12
• Bringing in as much outdoor air as possible —for example, opening windows.
• Increasing air filtration in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system,
such as by changing filters frequently and using filters that are properly fitted and provide
higher filtration.
212
• Using portable high -efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cleaners.
• Turning on exhaust fans and using other fans to improve air flow.
• Turning your thermostat to the "ON" position instead of "AUTO" to ensure your HVAC
system provides continuous airflow and filtration.
Moving Indoor Activities Outdoors12
You are less likely to be infected with COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses during outdoor
activities because virus particles do not build up in the air outdoors as much as they do indoors.
If you see a spike or rise in hospital admissions in your area, consider increasing the number of
group activities you move outside.
Increasing Space and Distance12
Small particles that people breathe out can contain virus particles. The closer you are to a greater
number of people, the more likely you are to be exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 or
other respiratory illnesses. To avoid this possible exposure, you may want to avoid crowded
areas, or keep distance between yourself and others. These actions also protect people who are at
high risk for getting very sick from COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses, in settings where
there are multiple risks for exposure.
Wearing Masks or Respirators12
Masks are made to contain droplets and particles that you breathe, cough, or sneeze out. A
variety of masks are available. Some masks provide a higher level of protection than others.
Respirators (for example, N95) are made to protect you by fitting closely on the face to filter out
particles, including the virus that causes COVID-19 and many other respiratory illnesses. They
can also block droplets and particles you breathe, cough, or sneeze out so you do not spread them
to others. Respirators (for example, N95) provide higher protection than masks.
When wearing a mask or respirator (for example, N95), it is most important to choose one that
you can wear correctly, that fits closely to your face over your mouth and nose, that provides
good protection, and that is comfortable for you.
Get Tested12
Get tested if you have any symptoms. A test tells you if you are infected with a virus/disease.
Also let your doctor know if you have been traveling out of state or country. If you think you
have been exposed to a virus/disease and do not have symptoms, you should get tested after your
expected exposure.
Following Recommendations for What to Do If You Have Been Exposed12
If you were exposed to someone with a virus/disease, you may have been infected. Follow
CDC's recommendations for what to do if you were exposed. This includes wearing a high-
213
quality mask when indoors around others (including inside your home) for 10 days, testing, and
monitoring yourself for symptoms.
Staying Home When You Have Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19 or a respiratory illness12
If you have any illness, you can spread it to others, even if you do not have symptoms. If you
have symptoms, get tested and stay home until you have your results. If you have tested positive
(even without symptoms), follow CDC's or your physician's recommendations. These
recommendations include staying home and away from others for at least 5 days (possibly
more, depending on how the virus/disease affects you) and wearing a high -quality mask when
indoors around others for a period.
Hazardous Areas
Pandemics are random and only a few happen every century. The impacts from an infectious
disease event can affect all areas of the world; therefore, all areas are vulnerable, as evidenced by
the current COVID-19 pandemic. Globalization has made it increasingly difficult to contain
localized outbreaks as infected or exposed people travel across the world in a matter of hours.
Third world countries have fewer resources to fight disease and may be more vulnerable than
more industrialized nations. In the United States, the public health system works at the federal,
state, and local levels to monitor diseases, plan, and prepare for outbreaks, and prevent epidemics
where possible.
There is no distinct geographic boundary to infectious disease; therefore, it can occur throughout
the Brazos County planning area.
Extent
The severity of a pandemic virus can be evaluated from the perspective of the individual who has
been infected; or from the population level, how many complications and deaths might be
expected as a whole. The most common measure of severity for a pandemic virus event is the
case -fatality rate (CFR) as depicted in Figure 15.3. The severity of the pandemic is measured in
Category 1 through 5 based on the number of fatalities.
214
Case Fatality Projected Number of Deaths'
Ratio US Population, 2005
>2.0%
1.0 - <2.0%
0.5 - <1.0%
Category 5
Category 4
>1,800.000
900,000 - r 1,900.000
450.000 - <900,000
0.1% -cd.6% tegory 2 90,000-.450,000
e0.1% Category 1 <90.000
'Assumes 30% illness rate
and unmitigated pandemic
without mteivenbons
Figure: 15.3 — Case Fatality Rate for Severity
Source: CDC'
The magnitude of a pandemic event is
identified in terms of warning levels based on
population. Figure 15.4 illustrates the various
warning levels for pandemic based on the
transmission level. NOTE: The COVID-19
pandemic warning level reached Phase 6.
Previous Occurrences
Interpandemic
Phase 1
Low risk of human case
Phase 2
Higher risk of human case
Pandemic Alert
Pandemic Alert Elevated
Phase 5
Evidence of significant human -to -
Pandemic
Phase 6
Efficient and sustained human -to -human transmission.
Figure: 15.4 Warning Levels for Pandemic(s)
Source: WHO'
The Brazos County Health District has compiled a report on infectious disease from 2015-2023.
The number of cases and rates are included in Table:15.2. On average, (175) cases of infectious
disease whose transmission could be enhanced during disasters are reported annually19
215
I. Infectious Disease
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Campylobacteriosis
Chickenpox (varicella)
Cryptosporidiosis
Cyclosporiasis
E. coli (Shiga Toxin -producing)
Legionellosis
Malaria
Mumps
Pertussis
Salmonellosis
Shigellosis
Strep pneumoniae
Vibrio infection parahaemolyticus
3
55
162
4
0
Table: 15.2 — Cases and Rate Per Disease
32 44 71 42 99 34 59 48
3 9 7 0 1 0 2 0
5 9 15 12 19 5 10 7
0 1 1 4 3 9 7 5
9 9 15 11 21 7 5 13
1 1 2 3 0 0 2 1
0 0 0 1 3 0 0 2
0 1 8 3 1 0 0 0
1 1 5 4 0 0 0
53 66 55 62 22 46 38
18 11 20 17 9 3 3
8 8 9 15 2 3 7
2 1 0 2 1 0 0
Source: BCHD19
Pathogenic event hazards are common. In 2014, a popular local restaurant was found to be the
source of a Salmonella cluster. Over 30 cases were confirmed for a rare Ohio strain of
Salmonella and four food samples collected at the restaurant also tested positive.
In 2022, a global outbreak of mpox was detected. Symptoms of the virus include fever, chills,
swollen lymph nodes, back/joint/muscle pain, and a rash that eventually scabs over and falls off.
There were seven known cases of mpox in Brazos County and its planning area. Mpox is an
infectious virus called monkeypox25. Experts now prefer to call it mpox to avoid associations
with monkeys or the idea that it does not affect people. It was first discovered in 1958 among
monkeys used for research in a Danish laboratory25. Mpox illnesses, including severe infections,
continue to occur across the United States25. CDC recommends people with the sexual risk
factors for mpox get vaccinated now if they have not already received two doses of JYNNEOS
vaccine. Those at risk include (but are not limited to) men who have sex with men (MSM) who
have more than one sexual partner and those who have sex with them, regardless of gender. CDC
does not currently recommend more than two vaccine doses25.
People with mpox25 often get a rash that may be located on hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth or
near the genitals, including penis, testicles, labia, and vagina, and anus. The incubation period is
3-17 days. During this time, a person does not have symptoms and may feel fine.
• The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing25.
• The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy25.
Mpox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu -like
symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later. A person with mpox can spread it to
others from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has
formed25.
216
Future Probability of Events
Epidemics and pandemics have occurred in human and animal populations for thousands of
years. As humans began to gather and congregate in urban areas, the potential for pandemics and
epidemics increased. As trade routes became established and contact with other cities became
more frequent, the potential for transmission of illnesses increased. As trade routes became
established and contact with other cities became more frequent, the potential for transmission of
illnesses increased. In modern society, the ease of global travel has created a situation where
viruses and bacteria can spread quickly from one continent to another.
Historical evidence shows that the population of Brazos County and the participating entities are
vulnerable to disease outbreaks, and the probability of future infectious disease or pandemic
events is possible. Local public health officials maintain surveillance in hopes of identifying
disease prominence and containing potential threats before they become epidemics. Given the
impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Brazos County and its participating entities, the
probability of a subsequent infectious disease epidemic or pandemic in the area is "occasional"
and an event has the probability of occurring once every five years.
There is risk of introduction, and endemic transmission, of infectious diseases (both transmitted
and vector -borne) from around the world due to climate change. Therefore, climate change is
anticipated to increase the probability of infectious disease events.
Infectious Disease and Climate Change
Increasing global temperatures due to climate change is contributing to the spread of infectious
diseases. Climate change can directly impact infectious disease emergence and re-emergence
through effects on pathogen survival, vector survival and reproduction, and their animal
reservoirs (i.e., hosts). For example, Aedes genus mosquitoes, which can transmit viruses such as
Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya, have been found farther North than previously known. Milder
winters, warmer summers, and fewer days of frost make it easier for infectious diseases to
expand to new geographic areas and subsequently increase the number of people at risk.
Additionally, climate change -related extreme whether events create circumstances where
infectious microorganisms can flourish and cause novel diseases to emerge. Climate change has
forced some animal species into new habitats as their natural habitats disappear, increasing
opportunities for contact between humans and animals that can potentially spread zoonotic
diseases (Ebola, Lassa, rabies, etc).
Potential Damages and Losses
Estimated potential losses to the built environment are difficult to calculate because infectious
disease causes little damage to the built environment and generally losses are experienced
through public health response and medical costs, and lost wages of patients. Therefore, it is
assumed that all buildings and facilities are exposed to disease but would experience negligible
damage in the occurrence of an outbreak event. For example, upkeep and maintenance of
217
buildings and facilities would fall behind due to the high absenteeism of employees or the
closing of facilities.
Critical infrastructure services, such as emergency services, utility services, water services and
telecommunications can be limited by an infectious disease event. With the COVID-19
pandemic, most of the people affected have mild illness and do not require hospitalization.
People at the highest risk for developing complications from COVID-19 include adults 60 years
of age and older. In addition, people who have medical conditions, such as heart disease; chronic
lung disease; blood, endocrine, kidney, liver, or metabolic disorders; obesity, or a weakened
immune system can experience a worsening of existing conditions if they contract the COVID-
19 (See Figure 15.5).
The current COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that the response costs to the public health
sector for an outbreak, the economic impact, and the impact to health for the Brazos County
planning area, is "Substantial." We experienced (453) deaths, and area facilities were shut down
for at least four weeks. Currently, there are expectations that COVID — 19 or another disease
could occur again.
COVID-19 Medical and Hospitalization Costs by State: Texas
COVID-19
Complex Inpatient
Charge
Amount
Average: Median:
$378.052 $258,305
Estimated
Allowed
COVID-19
Noncomplex Inpatient
Charge
Amount
Average: Median:
$63,847 $45,265
Estimated
Allowed
Amount
Average: Median:
$23,843 $17,729
COVID-19
Outpatient
r
Charge
Amount
Average_ Median
$3,157 $2,882
Estimated
Allowed
tot
111140n-
COYID,19 Complex Inpatient Captures the typical iota icosts for the most serous cases of COVID-19, in which a patent is admitted Iolhehospital
and requires ventilation or admission o the intensive care unit (ICUI. This pathway mch des costs Sof a hospitakzed patient who require more
complicated care. such as ICU costs. ventilator costs and costs for roan and board of increased rarriplenity.
COND. la iioneoropres mpaoerw. Laporres the typical total costs for a COVICe19 pawl who is adrrillad to the hoepitar moues nut require
ventilation or adnilasiarlo the ICU. Costs in this pathway include rcornand beard. laboratory testing, Imaging and hi therapies. _
1 C0ND.19 Outpatient Captures the typical total costs Fora paeant who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 but does not requirehospitarzation
Costs right include laboratory testing ar d phys+cian or urgent care v+sits.
Bear: FH* TwmwnCant ae.r 2021 Cap ngM202t. FAR Mit,rx Al rotsrnevea.
Average: The value computed by dividing the sum of all the values
by the number of values.
Median: The midpoint of the drsirmlteon ex values Below eau aeeee
which there is an equal number of values,
FAIR
Health
Know Your Source
Figure: 15.5 — Covid 19 — Cost by State
Source: FairHealth.org26
218
The Brazos County and the planning area executed a mandatory shutdown of non -essential
businesses as a direct result of COVID-19. Larger gatherings of people were limited to 50 and
below and at times to 10 and below. The impacts of COVID-19, the mandatory shutdown, large
gathering limits, ISD closures and pervasive unemployment led to multiple secondary impacts.
Figure: 15.6, provides an overview of secondary impacts of COVID-19 in the United States.
Currently there are no mandates or restrictions in place for COVID-19 in the planning area.
Employment Business
Massive unemployment Disrupted supply chains
Permanent automation of jobs small business closures
Housing
Market instability
Housing insecurity
Public Hearth
Food Insecurity
Reduced physical activity
Environment
Closed public spaces
Disrupted public and
religious services
Public Safety
Increased domestic violence
Drug and alcohol abuse
dental Health
Social isolation
Depression, anxiety, suicide
fa7F•n. lu 1,rr,rr1.
&Vol. and
lr. I I1W'111.14
Education
Disrupted schools
Inequitable access
to technology
Healthcare
Disrupted services
Reduced care seeking
Government
Disrupted voting
Disrupted tax revenue
Transportation
Reduced safety
Decline in infrastructure and travel
Exacerbating factors that can uffect the nature and magnitude of any impact
Lack of healthcare Existing structural Systemic racism, Politicization &
coverage inequalities bias & discrimination misinformation
Figure: 15.6 — Secondary Impacts of the COVID 19 Pandemic in the US Source: WHO'
Extent
The extent of infectious diseases is continuous, it is very difficult to determine when or where a
disease may occur. There are many factors involved in the emergence of new infectious diseases
or the re-emergence of "old" infectious diseases. Some result from natural processes such as the
evolution of pathogens over time, but many are a result of human behavior and practices.
To enhance the protection of the communities with Brazos County and its participating entities,
syndromic surveillance is used. Texas Syndromic Surveillance (TxS2)15 is the statewide
syndromic surveillance system hosted by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
for use by Local Health Departments (LHDs), DSHS Public Health Regions, DSHS central
office, and data providers (hospitals, free standing emergency centers, and urgent care centers,
219
for example) for enhanced surveillance of emerging public health conditions or threats.
Syndromic surveillance15 utilizes trend analysis to establish a baseline and then uses algorithms
to compare the current data to that baseline and issue alerts when aberrations are detected. DSHS
has authority to operate TxS2 under Chapter 81 of the Texas Health and Safety Code15
Within the last five years, the State of Texas has experienced either transmission or outbreaks of
Ebola, Chikungunya, West Nile, and Zika virus infections27. Autochthonous transmission (the
spread of disease between two individuals in the same place) of neglected parasitic and bacterial
diseases (chagas disease, cysticercosis, and toxoplasmosis) has also become increasingly
reportedl .
The rise of such emerging and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) has not occurred by accident
but instead reflects rapidly evolving changes and shifts in a "new" Texas. Neglected tropical
diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of conditions caused by a variety of pathogens (including
viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins) and associated with devastating health, social and
economic consequencesl.
The transmission and resurgent of once thought eradicated diseases, and modern and globalizing
forces (economic, political, and technological influences) that include rapid expansions in
population together with urbanization and human migrations, altered transportation patterns
(such as sea travel and transborder traffic or illegal immigration), climate change, steeply
declining vaccination rates (see figure: 15.7), and a new paradigm of poverty known as "blue
marble health"27.
The term "blue marble" is based on a famous Earth photograph taken by astronauts from an
Apollo mission, which has since become an important symbol for the health of our planet28. The
concept of blue marble health emerged as a novel framework for global health in 2013.
Succinctly put, today most or at least one-half of the world's neglected diseases occur among the
poor living in wealthy countries28.
• Population expansion
• Human migrations
• Urbanization
• Poverty
• Climate change
• Declining vaccinations
• Transborder traffic
• Sea transporUiion
Figure: 15.7 — Major external factors driving emerging and neglected diseases in Texas.
Source: PLOS27
220
Assessment of Impacts
> Infectious disease may be short term or may lead to long-term physical maladies.
> Absenteeism in the workplace may have negative impacts on the overall functioning of
society, particularly if prolonged.
> Response personnel are likely to experience the greatest impact and exposure to disease.
> Problems could arise regarding the continuity of operations and delivery of services.
> A large pathogenic event could impact the ability of the local government to maintain
operations and deliver services due to staff staying home due to illness or fear of
becoming ill.
> Psychological well-being may be affected due to illness, isolation, or the stress of
responding to the event.
> It is possible for pathogens to affect not only humans, but their animals as well which
may increase stress and financial hardship due to the cost of seeking medical care.
221
References - Section 15
1. World Health Organization. Global Health Estimates 2019 Summary Tables: Deaths by Cause, Age, and Sex, by World
Bank Income Group, 2000-2019. 2020. httvs: //wwwwho. int/data/gho/data/themes/mortalitv-and-global-health-
estimates
2. Upper Respiratory Infection. Cleveland Clinic. 2021. httvs://mv.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/4022-uvver-
resviratorv-infection
3. World Health Organization. Diarrheal disease. httvs://wwwwho.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diarrhoeal-disease.
2017.
4. World Health Organization. Tuberculosis. httns://wwwwho.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tuberculosis. 2023.
5. World Health Organization. HIV and AIDS. httvs://wwwwho.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids. 2023.
6. World Health Organization. Malaria. httvs://wwwwho.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/malaria. 2023.
7. World Health Organization. Measles. httvs://wwwwho.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/measles. 2023.
8. World Health Organization. Pertussis. httvs://wwwwho.int/health-tovics/vertussis#tab=tab 1/.
9. World Health Organization. Tetanus. httns://wwwwho.int/health-tovics/tetanus#tab=tab 1.
10. World Health Organization. Rabies. httvs://wwwwho.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/rabies. 2023.
11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. httvs://www.cdc.zov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-zettinz-
sick/nrevention. html. 2023.
12. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.zov/media/vdf/mitigationslides.vdf
13. Institute of Medicine (US) Forum on Microbial Threats. The Domestic and International Impacts of the 2009-H1N1
Influenza -A Pandemic: Global Challenges, Global Solutions: Workshop Summary. Washington (DC): National
Academies Press (US); 2010. PMID: 21413196.
14. Putri WCWS, Muscatello DJ, Stockwell MS, Newall AT. Economic burden of seasonal influenza in the United States.
Vaccine. 2018 Jun 22; 36(27): 3960-3966. doi: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.05.057. Epub 2018 May 22. PMID: 29801998.
15. Department of Health and Human Services. 2023 Statistics- People Living with HIV- Texas Department of Health
Services. httvs://healthdata.dshs.texas.zov/dashboard/diseases/people-living-with-hiv
16. World Health Organization. Hepatitis. httvs://wwwwho.int/health-tovics/hvatitis#tab=tab 1
17. World Health Organization. Food Borne Illnesses. httvs://wwwwho.int/health-tovics/foodborne-diseases#tab=tab 1
18. US Department of Agriculture. Cleanliness Helps Food Borne Illness. httvs://wwwfsis. usda.2ov/food-safetv/safe-food-
handline-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/cleanliness-helps-prevent
19. Brazos County Health Department. Health District Website Homepage. httvs://www.brazoscountvtx.2ov/161/Health-
District
20. Texas Health and Human Services. Texas Reports First West Nile Case of 2023. httvs: //www dshs. texas. eov/news-
alerts/texas-reports-first-west-nile-case-2023
21. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Influenza. H5N1 Avian Flu. httvs://www.cdc.Qov/flu/avianflu/avian-flu-
summarv.htm
22. Texas Animal Health Commission. 2022-2023 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
https://www.tahc.texas.gov/emergency/avianinfluenza.html
23. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Ebola Disease. httvs://www.cdc.Qov/vhf/ebola/index.html
24. American College of Gastroenterology. Diarrheal Diseases - Acute and Chronic. httvs://Qi.ore/tovics/diarrhea-acute-
and-chronic/
25. World Health Organization. MPDX (Monkeypox). httvs://wwwwho.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkevnox
26. Fair Health. Facts and Figures for the Nations' Largest Repository of Data. httvs://www.fairhealth.orr/
27. Hotez, A. (2018). The rise of neglected tropical diseases in the "new Texas". PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 2018 Jan
18;12(1): e0005581. doi: 10.1371/journal pntd.0005581. PMID: 29346369; PMCID: PMC5773009.
28. Hotez PJ, Damania A, Naghavi M. Blue Marble Health and the Global Burden of Disease Study. (2013). PLoS Negl
Trop Dis. 2016 Oct 27;10(10):e0004744. doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004744. PMID: 27788134; PMCID:
PMC5082884.
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223
Section 16 — Mitigation Actions
In the charts that follow, each jurisdiction presents mitigation action projects associated with the hazards listed in this plan. The Short,
Medium, and Long designations for Project Length should be understood as 1-3 years, 3-5 years, and 5-10 years or an ongoing project,
respectively. "All" in the Jurisdiction section should be understood as Brazos County, TAMU, and the Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, and Wixon Valley.
Flood Mitigation Projects
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost Funding Source(s) Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on flooding hazards and the National
Flood Insurance Program and to develop methods to mitigate
flooding damage to personal property.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
All Build, renovate, rehabilitate, and/or convert building(s) for use
as emergency shelter(s) to provide a safe environment for
individuals and families.
Brazos County Complete a hydrology study of the watersheds that exist in
Brazos County that contribute to flooding during heavy rain
incidents.
College Station Mitigate repetitive loss and severe repetitive loss properties to
include purchasing and/or elevation of existing structures.
College Station
College Station
Install early flood warning system(s) to alert the public of
roadway closures and collect flood data for use in model
calibration and floodplain mapping.
Conduct flood hazard assessment of the City's watersheds to
determine the scale and priority of any necessary floodplain
mapping or remapping efforts.
$2,000
Up to $150k
per
generator
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
High
General Funds
Grant: Hazard Medium
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
$lm Grant: Hazard Medium
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
$25,000 Grant: Flood High
Mitigation
Assistance
Grant: Hazard
$750k Mitigation Medium
Assistance
Drainage Funds
$500k Grant: Community Medium
Development
Block Grant/
Mitigation Funds
Drainage Funds
$150k Grant: Community High
Development
Block Grant/
Mitigation Funds
Short
1-3 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Emergency Management,
Communications/PIO
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management,
BC Road and Bridge
Planning and
Medium Development
3-5 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Planning and
Development
Planning and
Development
224
College Station Continue to enforce building codes and develop STPs. $6,000
Kurten Join the National Flood Insurance Program so residents can be N/A
eligible for flood insurance.
Wixon Valley Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on flooding hazards, National Flodd $5,000
ins. Program and develop methods to mitigate damage to
personal properties from flooding.
Wixon Valley Purchase generators for critical facilities le, emergency
operations and shelter.
Wixon Valley Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Use the potential areas of high-water information (2D models
and public information) to inform planning decisions.
Monitor and update statistical rainfall numbers as soon as
available.
Coordinate open space opportunities with flood control needs
for new developments and repetitive loss areas.
Perform a detailed review of flood insurance on city -owned
properties.
Protect critical facilities and flood -prone areas from debris by
expanding the maintenance program to include trash pickup,
including bulk, pnor to forecasted large events.
Install additional gauges to expand the B-FEWS system.
Create a public information campaign to encourage
participation in Code Red.
Explore installing "Street May Flood" signs in critical
locations.
Work with organizations serving functional and access needs
populations that may require special assistance and can tie in
with 911 and GIS systems so vulnerable citizens can be
checked on, notified, supported, or educated effectively in the
event of a disaster.
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds and
Corporate
Donations
Up to
$200,000 General Funds
per
generator
$5000 General Funds
$2,000 General Funds
$2,000 General Funds
$2,000 General Funds
$2,000 General Funds
<$400k General Funds
General Funds
<$400k Grants: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
<$50k General Funds
<$500k General Funds
<$50k General Funds
Develop a Substantial Damage Management plan. <$50k
<$50k
Continue to construct local and regional stormwater detention <$5m
facilities in flood -prone areas.
Develop, review, and update a Debris Management plan.
General Funds
High Medium Community Development
3-5 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
Medium Short Tenn
1-3 Years
Medium Long Term
5-10 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
High Long
5-10 years
High Short
1-3 Years
High Long
5-10 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
Medium Medium
3-5 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
High Long
5-10 Years
High Long
5-10 Years
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Mayor
City Council
Public Works
Public Works
Public Works
Public Works
Public Works
Public Works
Emergency Management
Public Works
High Medium Emergency Management
3-5 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
General Funds Medium Short
1-3 Years
General
Funds/Bonds
High Long
5-10 Years
Emergency Management,
Public Works, Risk
Management
Public Works
Public Works
225
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Increase the capacity of existing culverts and bridges on major
thoroughfares and single point access subdivisions to allow
passage during 100-year flooding event.
Explore list of roads flooded during 2016/17 rainfalls and
research emergency access availability to residents given these
conditions.
Explore creating a system for development incentives for
improving city stormwater infrastructure.
Direct mail of FEMA flood protection information to targeted
areas of high flood risk.
Develop paid advertisements through public service
announcements to educate the public about flood insurance and
risk.
Develop and improve communication regarding preparedness
and mitigation actions to better inform developers, engineers,
builders, and the public about ways to mitigate flood damage.
Create educational program(s) for flood risk for schools and
youth.
Drought Mitigation Projects
>$5m General
Funds/Bonds
$2,000 General Funds
<$50k General Funds
<$50k General Funds
<$50k General Funds
<$50k General Funds
<$50k General Funds
High
Long
5-10 Years
High Short
1-3 Years
Low Long
5-10 Years
Medium Long
5-10 Years
Medium Medium
3-5 Years
Medium Medium
3-5 Years
Low Long
5-10 Years
Public Works
Public Works
Public Works,
Development Services
Public Works
Public Works,
Communication and
Marketing
Public Works and
Communications and
Marketing
Public Works
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding
Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
All
College Station
College Station
Bryan
Bryan
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on drought and develop methods to
mitigate drought damage to personal property.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Create a series of PSAs or outreach for topics such as burn
bans, foundation watering how-to's, and water conservation.
Monitor water supply.
Educate residents on water saving techniques
Continue social media campaigns to notify public of emergency
situations, water conservation, water use efficiency, burn bands,
grid stability, and heat -related illnesses.
Develop strong continuity of operations/government plans.
$2,000
Up to $200k
per
generator
$1,000
$5,000
$5,000
<$10k
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
<$100k General Funds
Grant: BRIC
High
Emergency Management,
Short Communications/PIO
1-3 Years
Medium Short Emergency Management,
1-3 Years BISD
Medium
High
High
High
Medium
3-5 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
Emergency Management,
Communications/PIO
Utilities
Utilities
Emergency Management,
Utilities, Communications
and Marketing
Emergency Management
226
Wildland Fire Mitigation Projects
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding
Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
All
Brazos County;
Kurten; Wixon
Valley
College Station
College Station
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on wildfires and the hazards
associated and to develop methods to mitigate wildfire damage
to personal property. Educate residents about the need for and
creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert building(s) for use as
emergency shelter(s) for individuals and families.
Develop a community wildfire protection plan for the
unincorporated areas of Brazos County to also include the
Cities of Kurten and Wixon Valley.
Map and assess vulnerability to wildfires.
Increase wildfire risk awareness.
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on drought and develop methods to
mitigate damage to personal properties from drought.
Purchase generators for critical facilities
Wixon Valley Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
Bryan Continue social media campaign to notify public of emergency
situations, water conservation, water use efficiency, bum bands,
grid stability, and heat -related illnesses.
Bryan Provide door flyers containing information on how to prepare
for and recover from fire incidents.
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Provide community information on American Red Cross'
smoke alarm program.
Maintain a Community Wildfire Protection Plan to include risk
analysis and aerial imaging.
Phase out DJI drones and replace.
$1,000
Up to $150k
per
generator
$lm
$10,000
$5,000
$3,000
$5,000
Up to
$200,000
per
generator
$7 million
<$10k
<$5,000
$2,000
$255k
>$1m
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
High
General Funds Medium
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: Hazard High
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds Medium
General Funds Medium
General Funds Medium
General Funds and High
Corporate
Donations
General Funds Medium
General Funds Medium
General Funds High
General Funds High
High
High
High
General Funds
General Funds
Grant: CWDG
General Funds
Grant: HSGP
Emergency Management,
Short Communications/PIO
1-3 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Emergency Management
Medium Emergency Management
3-5 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Emergency Management,
Brazos County
Firefighter's Association
Fire Department
Fire Department
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management,
Utilities, Communications
and Marketing
Fire Department
Fire Department
Fire Department
Fire Department, Police
Department
227
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Provide PSA for homeowners regarding fuel mitigation projects
near wooded areas.
Purchase a woodchipper for controlled and uncontrolled
burning to begin cleanup.
Purchase a bulldozer for wildfire cleanup.
Purchase a Type III engine for wildfire response.
Host annual controlled bum training for multiple jurisdictions.
Develop strong continuity of operations/government plans.
Severe Winter Storm Mitigation Projects
<$300k General Funds
Grant: CWDG
<$10k General Funds
Grant: CWDG
>$1m Grant: CWDG
<$2m General Funds
Grant: CWDG,
AFG
<$100k General Funds
Grant: CWDG
<$100k General Funds
Grant:BRIC
High
High
Medium
Medium
High
High
Medium
3-5 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Fire Department, Public
Works
Fire Department, Utilities
Fire Department
Fire Department
Long Fire Department
5-10 Years
Medium Emergency Management
3-5 Years
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding
Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
All
College Station
College Station
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on winter storms and associated
hazards and to develop methods to mitigate winter storm
damage to personal property. Educate residents about the need
for and creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert building(s) for use as
emergency shelter(s) for individuals and families.
$2,000
Up to $150k
per
generator
$lm
Conduct winter weather risk awareness activities. $1,000
Assist vulnerable populations. $1,000
Continue social media campaign to notify public of emergency $5,000
situations.
Harden critical infrastructure and ensure continuity of essential
city services.
Develop strong continuity of operations/government plans.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
Purchase generators for critical facilities (What facilities?)
>$5m
<$100k
$7 million
Up to $200k
per
generator
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds Medium
General Funds High
General Funds High
General Funds High
Grant: BRIC
General Funds High
General Funds Medium
General Funds Medium
High
Short
1-3 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
Emergency Management,
Communications/PIO
Emergency Management
High Medium Emergency Management
3-5 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Long
5-10 years
Long
5-10 Years
Community Development
Community Development
Emergency Management,
Utilities, Communications
and Marketing
Emergency Management,
Risk management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
228
Tornado Mitigation Projects
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding
Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on tornadoes and associated hazards
and to develop methods to mitigate tornado damage to personal
property. Educate residents about the need for and creation of
preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
All Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert building(s) for use as
emergency shelter(s) for individuals and families.
College Station Create disaster debris management plan with respective
contracts to be approved by TDEM and FEMA.
College Station Hold annual tabletop exercises for roadway clearing and debris
management activities.
College Station
College Station
Bryan
Encourage the construction of safe rooms.
Conduct tornado awareness activities.
Develop, review, and update Debris Management plan.
Bryan Develop strong continuity of operations/government plans.
Wixon Valley Purchase generators for critical facilities
Wixon Valley Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
$2,000
Up to $150k
per
generator
$lm
$50k
$1,500
$1,000
$1,000
<$50k
<$100k
Up to $200k
per
generator
$7 million
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
Enterprise Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
Enterprise Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
High
Short Emergency Management,
1-3 Years Communications/PIO
Medium Short
1-3 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
High Long
5-10 Years
High Long
5-10 Years
High Long
5-10 years
High Short
1-3 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
Medium Long
5-10 Years
Medium Long
5-10 Years
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Public Works
Public Works
Risk Management
Risk Management
Public Works
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
229
Hail Mitigation Projects
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding
Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
All
College Station
College Station
Kurten
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Bryan
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on hail and associated hazards and to
develop methods to mitigate hail damage to personal property.
Educate residents about the need for and creation of
preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert building(s) for use as
emergency shelter(s) for individuals and families.
Locate safe rooms to minimize damage.
Increase hail awareness.
Create mailouts and/or social media messages that provide
information to residents regarding the use of weather radios, the
dangers of lightning, and safety precautions for when severe
weather and lightning threaten.
Continue social media campaigns to notify public of emergency $5,000
situations, hail damage reporting how-tos, road closures, and
severe weather safety.
Protect fleet and emergency vehicles during hail events with <$100k
covered parking.
$2,000
Up to $150k
per
generator
Sim
Invest in impact -rated roofing, A/C unit covers, and siding for
critical facilities.
Develop strong continuity of operations/government plans.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
Create mailouts and/or social media messages that provide
information to residents regarding the use of weather radios,
teach residents about the dangers of hail and safety precautions
to take when severe weather and hail threatens.
$1,000
$1,000
$250
>$1 m
<$100k
$7 million
$500
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
Grant: BRIC,
Hazard Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: BRIC
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
High
Medium
High
High
High
High
High
High
Low
High
Medium
High
Short Emergency Management,
1-3 Years Communications/PIO
Short
1-3 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Risk Management
Risk Management
Short 1-3 Emergency Management
Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Medium
3-5 Years
Long
5-10 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Emergency Management,
Utilities, Communications
and Marketing
Risk Management
Risk Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
230
Thunderstorms (including Lightning and High Winds) Mitigation Projects
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
All
College Station
College Station
Kurten
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Bryan
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on thunderstorms that produce
lightning, high winds and associated hazards to develop
methods to mitigate this damage to personal property. Educate
residents about the need for and creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert building(s) for use as
emergency shelter(s) for individuals and families.
Create social media lightning campaign for inclusion with City
of College Station water bills.
Conduct lightning awareness programs.
Create mailouts and/or social media messages that provide
information to residents regarding the use of weather radios,
the dangers of lightning, and safety precautions for when
severe weather and lightning threaten.
Install surge and strike reduction rods and systems in the new
City Hall.
Purchase generators for critical facilities
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
Continue social media campaign to notify the public of
emergency situations.
Bryan Invest in lightning rods for critical infrastructure.
$2,000
Up to $150k
per
generator
$1m
$2,500
$1,000
$250
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
$10k General Funds
Up to $200k General Funds
per
generator
$7 million General Funds
$5,000 General Funds
<$50k General Funds
High
Short
1-3 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
Medium Medium
3-5 Years
Emergency Management,
Communications/PIO
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Utilities
Utilities
High Short 1-3 Emergency Management,
Years City Council
Medium Short 1-3
Years
Medium Long
5-10 Years
Medium Long
5-10 Years
Low
Long
5-10 Years
Low Long
5-10 Years
City Council
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management,
Utilities, Communications
and Marketing
Risk Management
231
Dam and Levee Failure Mitigation Projects
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding
Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
All
Brazos County;
College Station;
Bryan
College Station
College Station
Bryan
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on dams and levees and associated
hazards and to develop methods to mitigate flooding damage to
personal property. Educate residents about the need for and
creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert building(s) for use as
emergency shelter(s) for individuals and families.
$2,000
Up to $150K
per
generator
$lm
Conduct hydrology studies to identify the extent for each dam $50k
on the list that does not have current information. Extents will
be stated in the form of water depth in the inundation area for
each dam.
Conduct a study estimating economic consequences for dam
failure scenarios.
Conduct a study estimating loss of life in the dam sectors for
failure scenarios.
Develop a dam safety public education and evacuation plan for
at -risk areas of the community including routes, transportation,
and housing.
Purchase generators for critical facilities
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
$40k
$40k
<$100k
Up to $200k
per
generator
$7 million
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
High
Medium
High
Short
1-3 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Emergency Management,
Communications/PIO
Emergency Management
Medium Emergency Management
3-5 Years
Medium Medium Emergency Management
3-5 Years
Grant: BOR Medium Medium
3-5 Years
Grant: BOR Medium Medium
3-5 Years
General Funds Medium Medium
3-5 Years
General Funds Medium Long
5-10 Years
General Funds Medium Long
5-10 Years
Planning and
Development
Planning and
Development
Public Works, Utitlties
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
232
Excessive or Extreme Heat Mitigation Projects
Jurisdiction
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost Funding Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible
Department(s)
All
All
All
All
All
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Wixon Valley
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for all
residents to educate them on excessive heat and associated
hazards and to develop methods to mitigate heat -related
damage to personal property. Educate residents about the need
for and creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert building(s) for use as
emergency shelter(s) for individuals and families.
Provide information to the public on where they can go to stay
cool during periods of excessive heat.
Educate vulnerable populations about sources of fans and
programs that can assist citizens having trouble paying utility
bills.
Purchase generators for critical facilities
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or buildings
for use as emergency shelters for individuals and families.
Provide information to the public on where they can go to stay
cool during periods of excessive heat.
Educate vulnerable populations about sources of fans and
sources of programs that can assist citizens having trouble
paying utility bills.
$2,000
Up to $150k
per
generator
$1m
$1,500
$1,500
Up to $200k
per
generator
$7 million
$2,000
$2,000
General Funds
Corporate
Donations
High
General Funds Medium
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
Grant: Hazard
Mitigation
Assistance
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
General Funds
Short
1-3 Years
Short
1-3 Years
High Medium
3-5 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
Medium Short
1-3 Years
Medium Long
5-10 Years
Medium
High
High
Long
5-10 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Short
1-3 Years
Emergency Management,
Communications/PIO
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management,
Communications
Emergency Management,
Communications
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
Emergency Management
233
Infectious Disease Mitigation Projects
In the chart that follows, the listed projects will be completed by the Brazos County Health District on behalf of Brazos County and
participating entities.
Mitigation Action
Est. Cost
Funding Source(s)
Priority
Project
Length
Responsible Department(s)
Identify family assistance centers and/or points of dispensing
for supplies during a pathogenic event.
Monitor zoonotic diseases thought to be associated with
changes in weather conditions and climate change. Inform
public of any changes so they can better protect themselves.
Implement education and awareness program(s) utilizing social
media, traditional media, bulletins, flyers, etc. to educate
citizens of hazards that can threaten the area and of mitigation
measures to reduce cases of disease and fatalities.
$50,000 General Funds Medium Medium
Grant: IDCU- 3-5 Years
TECE
$100,000 General Funds Medium
Grant: IDCU- Medium
TECE 3-5 Years
$50,000 General Funds Medium
Medium
3-5 Years
PHEP Coordinator
Brazos County Health District
Epidemiologist
Brazos County Health District
Public Information Officer
Brazos County Health District
234
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235
Section 17 — Plan Management
Monitoring and Evaluation
Periodic revisions of the plan are required to ensure that goals, objectives, and mitigation actions
are kept current. When the plan is discussed in these sections it includes the risk assessment and
mitigation actions as a part of the monitoring, evaluating, updating and review process.
Revisions may be required to ensure the plan is following federal and state statutes and
regulations.
The planning team will meet once or twice a year to evaluate the plan and identify any needed
changes and assess the effectiveness of the plan achieving its stated purpose and goals. The team
will evaluate the number of mitigation actions implemented along with the loss -reduction
associated with each action. Actions that have not been implemented will be evaluated to
determine whether any social, political, or financial barriers are impeding implementation and if
any changes are necessary to improve the viability of an action. The team will evaluate changes
in land development and/or programs that affect mitigation priorities in their respective entities.
The evaluation process will help to determine whether any changes are necessary. In addition,
the plan will be similarly evaluated immediately after extreme weather events including but not
limited to state and federally declared disasters.
Disaster Declarations
Following a disaster declaration, the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Plan will be revised as
necessary to reflect lessons learned, or to address specific issues and circumstances arising from
the event. The Hazard Mitigation Action Planning Team will meet under special circumstances
and invite stakeholders to participate in the plan revision and update process following declared
disaster events.
Plan Amendments
Amendments can be made at any time necessary to the Brazos County Hazard Mitigation Action
Plan. Material changes to mitigation actions or major changes in the overall direction of the plan
or the policies contained within it, must be subject to formal adoption by the participating
entities.
The participating entities within Brazos County will review proposed amendments and vote to
accept, reject, or amend the proposed change. Upon ratification, the amendment will be
transmitted to TDEM.
In determining whether to recommend approval or denial of a plan amendment request,
participating entities will consider the following factors:
• Errors or omissions made in the identification of issues or needs during the preparation
of the plan update.
• New issues or needs that were not adequately addressed in the plan update; and
236
• Changes in information, data, or assumptions from those on which the plan update was
based.
Hazard Mitigation Action Plan Review
In addition, with the review plan listed above, the plan will be thoroughly reviewed by the
planning team at the end of three years from the approval date, to determine whether there have
been significant changes in the planning area that necessitate changes in the types of mitigation
actions proposed. Factors that may affect the content of the plan include new development in
identified hazard areas, increased exposure to hazards, disaster declarations, increase or decrease
in capability to address hazards, and changes to federal or state legislation.
The plan review process provides the participating entities within Brazos County an opportunity
to evaluate mitigation actions that have been successful, identify losses avoided due to the
implementation of specific mitigation measures, and address mitigation actions that may not
have been successfully implemented as assigned. It is recommended that the full planning team
and stakeholders meet to review the plan at the end of the 3 years because grant funds may be
necessary for the development of a 5-year update. Reviewing planning grant options in advance
of the 5-year plan update deadline is recommended considering the timelines for grant and
planning cycles can be more than a year.
During the 5-year plan review process, the following questions will be considered as criteria for
assessing the effectiveness and appropriateness of the Plan:
• Do the goals address current and expected conditions?
• Has the nature or magnitude of risks changed?
• Are the current resources appropriate for implementing the Plan?
• Are there implementation problems, such as technical, political, legal or coordination
issues with other agencies?
• Have the outcomes occurred as expected?
• Did County departments participate in the plan implementation process as assigned?
Following the plan review, any revisions deemed necessary will be summarized and
implemented according to the reporting procedures and plan amendment process outlined herein.
Upon completion of the review, update, and amendment process the revised plan will be
submitted to TDEM for final review and approval in coordination with FEMA.
Continued Public Involvement
44 CFR Requirement
44 CFR Part 201.6(c)(4)(iii): The plan maintenance process shall include a discussion on how the community will
continue public participation in the plan maintenance process.
Public input was an integral part of the preparation of this plan and will continue to be essential
for plan updates. The public will be directly involved in the annual evaluation, monitoring,
237
reviews, and cyclical updates, using the Public Survey and Public Meetings. Changes or
suggestions to improve or update the Plan will provide opportunities for additional public input.
The public can review the plan on the participating entities' websites, where officials and the
public will be invited to provide ongoing feedback via email.
The planning team may also designate voluntary citizens from the planning area or willing
stakeholder members from the private sector businesses that were involved in the plan's
development to provide feedback on an annual basis. It is important that stakeholders and the
immediate community maintain a vested interest in preserving the functionality of the planning
area as it pertains to the overall goals of the mitigation plan. The planning team is responsible
for notifying stakeholders and community members on an annual basis and maintaining the
plan.
Media, including local newspaper and radio stations, will be used to notify the public of any
maintenance or periodic review activities during the implementation, monitoring, and
evaluation phases. Additionally, local news media will be contacted to cover information
regarding plan updates, status of grant applications, and project implementation. Social media
outlets, such as Facebook and Twitter (X), will keep the public and stakeholders apprised of
potential opportunities to fund and implement mitigation projects identified in the plan.
238
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239
Appendix A — Planning Team
Brazos County
Name Title
Michele Meade
Jason Ware
Arron Constante
Fred Paine
Prarthana Banerji
Megan Lott
Robert Lamkin
Jeanelle Johnson
Marc McFeron
Kyle McCain
Victor Harris
Kelly Sullivan
Nicholas Cook
Matthew Cline
Eric Zaragoza
Tradd Mills
Caroline Ask
Glenn Gavit
Stephen Maldonado Jr
David Vaughn
Matthew Ellis
Carol Cotter
Chris Court
Jim Soefje
Kimberly Hinton
Monica Martinez
Leslie Lutz
Amanda Fox
Jeff Truss
Ralph Davila
Valerie Hadley
Rob Meyer
Shannon Van Zandt
Walter Peacock
John T. Cooper
Emergency Management Coordinator
Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
Emergency Management Planner
Operations Manager, Brazos County Road and Bridge Department
County Engineer, Brazos County Road and Bridge Department
GIS Coordinator, Brazos County Road and Bridge Department
Environmental Health Services Manager, Brazos County Health District
City of Bryan
Emergency Management Coordinator
Fire Marshal
Environmental Operations Supervisor
Wastewater Plant Supervisor
Civil Engineer
Production/Division Manager, Bryan Texas Utilities
GIS Analyst
Environmental Services Manager
City of College Station
Emergency Management Coordinator
Solid Waste Division Manager
Assistant Director of Electricity Services
Assistant Director of Water Services
Engineering Program Specialist
Senior Planner
City Engineer
City of Kurten
Mayor, Emergency Management Director
City of Wixon Valley
Mayor, Emergency Management Director
Floodplain Coordinator
Texas A&M University
Director of Emergency Management
Assistant Director of Emergency Management
Emergency Management Specialist
Assistant Director of Environmental Health and Safety
Director of Facilities
Assistant Director of Facilities and Dining Administration
Supervisor of Utilities and Energy Services
Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning
Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning
Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning
Brazos County Department of Health
Edward Davila Epidemiologist
Takira Lyles Epidemiologist
Noelle McGhee Public Health Accreditation Fellow
Megan Sullivan Public Health Emergency Preparedness Administrative Assistant
240
Arthur Davila
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Manager
Hazard Mitigation Planning Team Capabilities and Mitigation Categories
Department
Prevention
Property and
Natural Resource
Protection
Emergency
Services
Education and
Awareness
Engineering and Floodplain
Management
V
V
Planning and Development
J
J
J
Environmental Health and Safety
J
J
J
Fire and EMS
J
J
V
V
Utilities
V
V
Marketing and Communications
V
V
Parks and Recreation
V
Brazos County Health Department
V
V
241
Appendix B — Critical Infrastructure
Name
Type
Jurisdiction
Coulter Field
Easterwood Field
BISD Transportation Center
Bryan ISD Administration Buildings
Brazos Transit District
Greyhound Bus Station
Transportation Services
City of Bryan City Hall
City of College Station City Hall
City of Wixon Valley City Hall
KYLE
WTAW
KEOS
KNFX-FM
KKYS
KORA
KAMU
KBTX
Brazos County Exposition Center
Brazos Center
COCS Visit College Station Center
COCS Meyer Senior & Community Center
COB Clara B. Mounce Public Library
Carnegie History Center
COCS Larry J Ringer Public Library
COCS Southwood Community Center
COCS Veterans Park American Pavilion
COCS Gary Halter Nature Center
COCS Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater
COCS Lincoln Center
Kurten Community Center
Brazos County Courthouse
College Station ISD Administration Buildings
Barbara Bush Parent Center
CSISD Transportation Center
Airport
Airport
BISD Facility
BISD Facility
Bus
Bus
Bus
City Hall
City Hall
City Hall
Communication
Communication
Communication
Communication
Communication
Communication
Communication
Communication
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathenng Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathenng Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathenng Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Community Center/Gathering Area
Courthouse
CSISD Facility
CSISD Facility
CSISD Facility
COB
COCS, TAMUS
COB
COB
COB
COB
TAMU
COB
COOS
WV
COB
COOS
COB
COB
COB
COB
TAMU
COB
COB, BC
COB, BC
COOS
COOS
COB
COB
COOS
COOS
COOS
COOS
COOS
COOS
Kurten
BC
COOS
COOS
COOS
242
George Bush Presidential Library Cultural Landmark TAMU
Bryan Texas Utilities Electric COB
College Station Utilities Electric COCS
Central Utilities Plant Electric TAMU
Satellite Utility Plant No. 1 Electric TAMU
Satellite Utility Plant No. 2 Electric TAMU
Satellite Utility Plant No. 3 Electric TAMU
West Campus Cogeneration Company Electnc TAMU
Community Emergency Operations Center Emergency BC, COB, COCS, TAMU
Kyle Field Command Emergency TAMU
College Station Fire Department Station #1 Fire Station COCS
College Station Fire Department Station #2 Fire Station COCS
College Station Fire Department Station #3 Fire Station COCS
College Station Fire Department Station #4 Fire Station COCS
College Station Fire Department Station #5 Fire Station COCS
College Station Fire Department Station #6 Fire Station COCS
Bryan Fire Department Station #1 Fire Station COB
Bryan Fire Department Station #2 Fire Station COB
Bryan Fire Department Station #3 Fire Station COB
Bryan Fire Department Station #4 Fire Station COB
Bryan Fire Department Station #5 Fire Station COB
Brazos County District 2 VFD Station #1 Fire Station BC
Brazos County District 2 VFD Station #2 Fire Station BC
Brazos County Precinct 3 VFD Station #1 Fire Station BC
Brazos County Precinct 3 VFD Station #2 Fire Station BC
Brazos County Precinct 3 VFD Station #3 Fire Station BC
Brazos County Precinct 4 VFD Station #1 Fire Station BC
Brazos County Precinct 4 VFD Station #2 Fire Station BC
Brazos county Precinct 4 VFD Station #3 Fire Station BC
South Brazos County FD Station #1 Fire Station BC
South Brazos County FD Station #2 Fire Station BC
South Brazos County FD Station #3 Fire Station BC
South Brazos County FD Station #4 Fire Station BC
Brazos County Administration Government BC
Brazos County Precinct 3 Justice of the Government BC
Peace/Constable
Brazos County Precinct 1 Justice of the
Peace/Constable Government BC
United States Post Offices (7) Government BC, COB, COCS, K, TAMU
243
Business 6/ Texas Avenue Highway BC, COB, COCS
Earl Rudder Freeway/ State Highway 6 Highway BC, COB, COCS
Farm to Market 50 Highway BC
Farm to Market 60 (Raymond Stotzer/University Highway BC, COB, COCS
Dr)
Farm to Market 158 (Boonville Road/ William J. Highway COB, BC
Bryan Parkway)
Farm to Market 159 Highway BC
Farm to Market 974 (Tabor Road) Highway BC, COB
Farm to Market 1179 (Briarcrest/ Villa Maria) Highway COB, BC
Farm to Market 1687 (Sandy Point Road) Highway COB, BC
Farm to Market 1688 (Leonard Road) Highway COB, BC
Farm to Market 2038 Highway BC, Kurten
Farm to Market 2154 (Wellborn Road) Highway BC, COB, COCS
Farm to Market 2223 (Old Cameron Ranch Road) Highway BC
Farm to Market 2347 (George Bush Dr) Highway COCS
Farm to Market 2776 Highway BC, WV
Farm to Market 2818 (Harvey Mitchell Parkway) Highway BC, COB, COCS
Old San Antonio Road (OSR) Highway BC
State Highway 21 Highway BC, COB, WV, Kurten
State Highway 30 (Harvey Road) Highway BC, COB, COCS
State Highway 40 Highway COCS
State Highway 47 Highway COCS, COB, BC
State Highway 105 Highway BC
Accel Transitional Care and Rehabilitation Medical COCS
Baylor Scott & White Clinic - Bryan W Villa Medical COB
Maria
Baylor Scott & White Clinic - Boonville Medical COB
BPL Plasma Medical COCS
Brazos Valley Urgent Care Medical COCS
Caprock Hospital Medical COB
CHI St. Joseph Health Emergency & Trauma Medical COB
Center
CHI St. Joseph Health Express Care Medical COB
CHI St. Joseph Health Primary Care - Austin's Medical COB
Colony
CHI St. Joseph Health Primary Care - Bryan Medical COB
CHI St. Joseph Health Primary Care - University Medical COB
Dr
CHI St. Joseph Health Primary Care - W Villa Medical COB
Maria
CHI St Joseph Health Primary Care Medical COCS
CHI St Joseph/Occ/Clinic Medical COCS
244
CHI St. Joseph Health Rehabilitation Hospital
Fortress Health and Rehabilitation
Health Point Acute Care
Physicians Premier
Scott & White Clinic
Scott & White Cosmetic Surgery
Center/Pharmacy
Scott & White today Care Clinic
Scott & White Hospital
St Joseph Regional Health Center - Bryan
Campus
St Joseph Regional Health Center - CS Campus
St Joseph Family Medicine
St Joseph Pediatrics
Signature Care Emergency Center
The Blood Center of Brazos Valley
The Physicians Centre Hospital
VA/ABC Clinic
University Emergency Medical Service
Nuclear Science Center
Bluebonnet House Assisted Living
Broadmoor Place
Carriage Inn - Bryan
Crestview Retirement Community
Dansby House
Generation Center for Senior Living
Hudson Creek Alzheimer's Special Care Center
Isle at Water crest - Bryan
Lampstand Health & Rehab of Bryan
Langford Methodist Retirement Community
Sodalis Senior Living
Waldonbrooke Estates
Watercrest At Bryan Tx
Waterford at College Station
City of Bryan Police Department
City of College Station Police
Brazos County Sheriff's Office
Texas Department of Public Safety
University Police Department
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Medical
Nuclear Science
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Nursing/Assisted Living Home
Police Station
Police Station
Police Station
Police Station
Police Station
COB
COOS
COB
COB
COOS
COOS
COOS
COOS
COB
COOS
COOS
COOS
COOS
COOS
COB
COOS
TAMU
COCS/TAMU
COOS
COB
COB
COB
COB
COB
COB
COB
COB
COOS
COOS
COB
COB
COOS
COB
COOS
COB (BC)
COB
TAMU
245
Union Pacific Railroad Railway bridge BC, COB, COCS
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway bridge BC, COB, COCS
A & M Consolidated High School School COCS
A&M Consolidated Middle School School COCS
Aggieland Country School School COCS
Allen Academy School COB
Anson Jones Elementary School COB
Arthur Davila Middle School School COB
Ben Milam Elementary School COB
Bonham Elementary School COB
Brazos Christian School School COB
Bryan Collegiate High School School COB
Bryan High School School COB
Center For Alternative Learning School COCS
College Hills Elementary School COCS
College Station High School School COCS
College Station Middle School School COCS
CornerStone Christian Academy School COB
Creekview Elementary School School COCS
Crockett Elementary School COB
Cypress Grove Intermediate School COCS
Disciplinary Alternative Educational Program School COB
Fannin Elementary School COB
Forest Ridge Elementary School School COCS
Greens Prairie Elementary School School COCS
Harmony Science Academy School COB
Harvey Mitchell Elementary School COB
Henderson Elementary School COB
IL Texas College Station K-8 School COCS
IL Texas Aggieland High School School COCS
Jane Long Middle School COB
Johnson Elementary School COB
Kemp Elementary School COB
Keystone Montessori School School COB
Mary Branch Elementary School COB
Maly Catherine Harris School of Choice High School COB
School
Montessori School House School COB
246
Navarro Elementary School COB
Neal Elementary School COB
Oakwood Intermediate School COCS
O.W. Sadberry Intermediate School COB
Pebble Creek Elementary School COCS
Rock Prairie Elementary School COCS
Rudder High School School COB
Sam Houston Elementary School COB
Sam Rayburn Middle School COB
South Knoll Elementary School COCS
Southwood Valley Elementary School COCS
Special Opportunity School School COB
St. Michaels Academy School COB
St. Joseph Catholic School School COB
Stephen F Austin Middle School COB
Still Creek Christian School School BC
Sul Ross Elementary School COB
COCS Cell Towers (12) Services COCS
COCS Central Park Admin Services COCS
COB Electrical Facilities Services COB
COCS Electric Facilities (11) Services COCS
COCS Lift Stations (17) Services COCS
COB Municipal Court Services COB
COCS Municipal Court, Public Works, & Fire Services COCS
Administration
COCS Northgate Parking Garage Services COCS
COCS Point Pump Stations (2) Services COCS
COCS Utilities, Meeting & Training Facility Services COCS
COCS Water Towers (3) Services COCS
COCS Wells (7) Services COCS
Burton Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Wastewater COB
Still Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Wastewater COB
Thompson Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Wastewater COB
Carter Creek Wastewater Treatment Wastewater COCS
COB Still Creek Wastewater Treatment Wastewater COB
COB Thompsons Creek Wastewater Treatment Wastewater COB
Plant
Lick Creek Wastewater Treatment Wastewater COCS
Texas A&M University Wastewater TAMU
247
Utilities and Energy Services Wastewater
Legend: COB - City of Bryan, COCS - City of
College Station, BC - Brazos County, TAMU -
Texas A&M University, WV - City of Wixon
Valley, and K - City of Kurten
TAMU
248
Appendix C — Public Survey Questions and Results
Survey Distribution
The Community Survey was distributed to the citizens of Brazos County and participating
entities through a variety of means including paper copies distributed at public meetings and
events, in public locations such as libraries and City Halls, and digitally through an online form
available by hyperlink located on publicly accessible websites. This hyperlink to the online
survey was also sent via email to Brazos County employees and employees of the City of Bryan,
the City of College Station, and Texas A & M employees. The table below indicates the form of
distribution used throughout the planning area.
Survey Data Entry
Responses to the survey submitted via digital means (hyperlinks available on websites and
through email) were captured and recorded through the SurveyMonkey website
(www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCHMPUpdate) and the Brazos CEOC website
(https://brazosceoc.org/brazos-county-resident-hazard-mitigation-action-plan-update-survey/).
Responses to the survey submitted via printed means were entered into the digital format of the
survey and added to the SurveyMonkey website totals. Currently, the survey is a total of 131
responses (digital and print combined) which were recorded and saved for analysis. It is,
however, prudent to mention that the survey will remain open for the foreseeable future so that
information is continually collected and assessed as an ongoing method of interacting with the
communities.
Website for Public Survey Participation:
https://brazosceoc. org/brazos-county-resident-hazard-mitigation-action-plan-update-survey/
This Survey was offered in English and Spanish.
Q1 Have you ever experienced a natural disaster?
o Yes (1)
o No (2)
Q2 If yes, which natural disasters have you experienced while living in Brazos County? (Check all that apply)
O Flood (1)
O Winter Storm (2)
O Tornado (3)
O Urban/Wildland Fire (4)
O Dam Failure (5)
O Severe Thunderstorm (6)
0 Lightning (7)
0 Hail (8)
0 Drought (9)
O Excessive/Extreme Heat (10)
O Other (please specify) (11)
Q3 How concerned are you about the following natural hazards in your area?
249
Very (1) A little (2) Not at all (3)
Flood (1) o o o
Winter Storm (2) o o o
Tornado (3) o o o
Urban/Wildfire (4) o o o
Dam Failure (6) o o o
Severe Thunderstorm (7) o o o
Lightning (8) 0 0 0
Hail (9) 0 0 0
Drought (10) 0 0 0
Excessive/Extreme Heat (11) 0 0 0
Other (12) 0 0 0
Q4 Does your family plan for any of the following hazards? (Check all that apply)
O Flood (1)
O Winter Storm (2)
O Tornado (3)
O Urban/Wildfire (4)
O Dam Failure (5)
O Severe Thunderstorm (6)
O Lightning (7)
O Hail (8)
O Drought (9)
O Excessive/Extreme Heat (10)
O Other(11)
Q5 How do you receive warnings and alerts about emergencies? (Check all that apply)
O Television (1)
O Radio (2)
O Brazos County Emergency Notification System (CodeRed) (3)
O Texas A&M's Code Maroon Notification System (4)
O Blinn Alert Notification System (6)
O NOAA Weather Radio (7)
O Cell Phone Services / Apps (8)
O Social Media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.) (10)
O Cable TV System Alerts (11)
O Other (please specify) (12)
Q6 What are the best ways for YOU to get information about hazards and hazard safety? (Check all that apply)
O Local Newspaper (1)
O Television or Local Cable Channel (2)
O Radio (3)
O Information on Utility Bills (4)
O Direct Mailings (5)
O Email (6)
O County/City Website (7)
O County/City Meetings (8)
O School Meetings and/or Messages (9)
O Information at Local Library (10)
O Roadside Message Boards (11)
O Emergency Notification System (Phone or Text Message) (12)
O Social Media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.) (13)
O Other (please specify) (14)
Q7 What kind of housing do you have?
O Single-family home (1)
O Duplex (2)
O Apartment (3)
O Condominium or Townhome (4)
O Manufactured Home (Modular) (5)
O Mobile Home or Trailer (6)
O Other (Please specify) (7)
Q8 Is your home in a floodplain?
OYes (1)
O No (2)
O Unsure (3)
Q9 Flood insurance is available in Brazos County! Do you have flood insurance?
250
OYes (1)
O No (2)
O Unsure (3)
Q10 If you do NOT have flood insurance, why? (Check all that apply)
O I am not located in a floodplain (1)
O I don't experience floods (2)
0 My home is protected from floods already (3)
0 It's not required (4)
0 It's too expensive (5)
0 I've never thought about it (6)
0 Other (please specify) (7)
Q11 Think about Brazos County as a whole. How important are the following efforts in your area?
Very (1) A little (2) Not at all (3)
Protecting private property (1) 0 0 0
Protecting critical facilities (e.g., hospitals, fire stations, etc.) (2) o o o
Protecting utilities (3) o o o
Protecting roads and bridges (4) 0 0 0
Preventing development in hazardous areas (5) o o o
Protecting the environment (6) o o o
Protecting cultural and historical landmarks (7) o 0 0
Improving emergency response (8) o o o
Improving public education on hazards (9) o o o
Identifying hazardous areas with signs (10) o o o
Q12 Are you aware that your local schools, businesses, or churches have emergency plans?
O Yes (1)
O No (2)
O Unsure (3)
Q13 If you want to be notified about Hazard Mitigation Plan public meetings, please enter your contact information.
O Name: (1)
O Phone: (4)
O Email: (5)
Demographic Information (Voluntary)
Q14 How long have you lived in Brazos County?
O 0 - l year (1)
O 2 - 5 years (2)
O 6 - 10 years (3)
O 11 - 20 years (4)
O 21 - 30 years (5)
O 30+ years (6)
Q15 What is your zip code?
Q16 Do you rent or own the place you live in?
O Own (1)
O Rent (2)
Q17 How do you identify?
O Male (1)
O Female (2)
O non -binary / third gender (3)
O Prefer not to say (4)
Q18 What is your highest education level?
O No High School Diploma (1)
O High School Diploma / GED (2)
O Some College (3)
O Trade -Specific Certificate / Associate degree (4)
O Bachelor's degree (5)
O Master's degree or Higher (6)
Q19 How many people under age 18 live with you?
251
Q20 How many people over age 65 live with you?
Q21 Please select the option that best describes you:
O White (1)
O Black or African American (2)
O Asian (3)
O Hispanic (4)
O American Indian or Alaskan Native (5)
O Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (6)
O Other (please specify)(7)
Results Captured from the Surveys (September 2023 — January 2024)
Results are sent and calculated by Texas A & M University for accuracy. 2024-2029 Brazos
County HMAP — FINAL - Analyzed on February 15th, 2024, 9:48 am CST
Q1 — Have you experienced a natural disaster?
0 10 20 30 4
0 50 60 7
0 90
90
1W
Q3 — How concerned are you about the following natural hazards in your
area?
a Irrtle
t
O 20 A 30 40 50 60 A RO M
• Flood
• Winter Storm
• Tornado
• VmanM0ldfire
Dam Failure
• Severe Tnvnderstorm
Lightning
• Hall
• Drought
• Excessive/Extreme treat
• Omer
Q2 — If yes, which natural disasters have you
experienced while living in Brazos County?
laod -
VRrter Strom ■
Tornado ■
umarvwrdLna Fre ■
Dern Failure
Severe Thu.etetwm ■
Lightning ■
Hell -
Faces IExtrerre
Hear
Omer [pease
werM7
•
0 10 20 30 JO 50 60
252
Q4 — Does your family plan for any of the following hazards?
Tc.-
■
UrbanNAldfire
Dam Failure
Severe Thunderstorm ^.
Lightning
Hail
Drought
Excessixhxtreme
Heal
0
i0 60 70
Q5 — How do you receive warnings and alerts about emergencies?
Teleois.c•n
Radro
Brazos County
Emergency
Nolificao0n System
(COdeRe6)—
Texas ABM Code
Maroon Notification
System
0L1nn Alen I
Nolifrrcabon System
NOAA Weatner Bad*
Cell Phone Serurces
Apes
Social Media (e.g,
Faceboog. Twitter,
etc)
Cable TV System
Alerts
Met (please
Weary)
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 t
10 20 ]0 40 50 60 70 60 00
Q6 — What are the best ways for you to get information about hazards and hazard safety.
Local Newsy, -
Local Cable
Channel _
E—
Counry/Cicy
Website
Coy
Meeungs
eeang
School Meetings -
arWlor Messages
Intormabon at I
Local Library
Roadside Message
iBOMtlS
Emergency —
NOlaKdbOn -
System (P160014 or
SOGOIMGIIIA
(e g., Facebook.
Twtrter, etc) _
Other (please -
speoty)
1I' 1' I I 'I
0 10 20 70 40 50 60 70
253
Q7 — What kind of housing do you have?
Q8 — Is your home in a floodplain?
Q9 - Flood insurance is available in Brazos County! Do you have flood insurance?
254
I am not tocated In a
aoodptain
Q10 — If you do not have flood insurance, why?
It's not Iequ red —�
Its too expensive
I've never thought
about a
Other (please speihy)
Yes
Yo
Unsure
r t t r t
30 IS 20 A30 35 40 45 50
Q12 - Are you aware that your local schools, businesses, or
churches have emergency plans?
0
10
20
30
ao
50
60
70
60
Very
A 6r
Not at a0
Q11 — Think about Brazos County as a whole. How
important are the following efforts in your area?
• Protecting private property
• Protecting critical facilities (e.g.. hospitals. fire stations. etc.)
• Protecting utilities
■ Protecting roads and bridges
Preventing development In hazardous areas
• Protecting the environment
• Protecting cultural and historical landmarks
• Improving emergency response
■ Improving public education on hazards
• Identifying hazardous areas with signs
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90100
Q13 — How long have you lived in Brazos County?
0 -iyear
2 . 5 years
6- 10 years
11- 20 years
21-30 years
30+years
I t I I r t t I I 1 1 r 1 I
0 2 4 6 6 10 12 14 16 10 20 22 24 26 2A
255
0-1year
2 • 5 years
6- 10 years
11- 20 years
21.30 years
30. years
t
Rent
Demographic Information (Voluntary)
Q14 How long have you lived in Brazos County?
1 1 1 I I 1 I 1 I 1 I 1 I
2 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
Q16 — Do you rent or own the place you live in?
02��I I
0 10 20 30 40 501 601 701 801 901 100
Male
Female
Nonbinary 1
third gender
Prefer not to say
Q15 — What is your zip code?
Zip Code Reporting
(identified) Number
77681 1
77801 3
77802 34
77803 10
77807 8
77808 22
77840 3
77845 21
77859 1
77864 1
Q17 — How Do you identify?
I 1 1 I n 1 n 1 1 1
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55
256
Q18 — What is your highest education level?
No High School
Diploma
High School Diploma
rGED
Some College
Trade -Spec&
CerONcatel
Associate Degree
Bachelor Degree
Master Degree or
Higher
5 10 15 20 25 30 35
Q20 — How many people over age 65 live with you?
Number Reporting
Number
0 54
1 24
2 9
3 0
4 0
5 0
6 0
7 0
8 0
9 0
10 0
Wine
Q19 - How many people under age 18 live with
you?
Number Reporting
Number
0 62
1 21
2 7
3 2
4 1
5 0
6 0
7 0
8 0
9 1
10 0
Q21 — Please select the option that best describes you:
Black or African'
Amnican
Asian
Hispanic
An eriCan Indian or I
Alaskan Native
Native Hawaiian at
Pacific Islander
Other (pease
aPacifY)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
257
Appendix D — Community Meeting Documents
Hazard Mitigation Action Plan Meeting #1IIlir"
Sign in Sheet
Date: Monday, November 13, 2023
Name
v;NC;lf
Time: 6:00-730 pm
Home
Zip Code
Host: Brazos County EM, College Station, Bryan, Kurten,
Wixon Valley & Texas A & M
Email Address
(if you'd like to he notified for other events)
-—7-77?4' .� rrrtnr nuvilirlrz(v5.7t/
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Location Brazos Center
Date Monday, November 13. 2023
Time sou 73o pn
rncilrtator Brazos county Cities of Bryan College Station
Management sMEmergenq
gement la) Ertl.
Agenda Items
sou-630,
6PO-i'00
T00 - 730
Additional Information
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ME bathrooms are located In
the men hell erroyl Thank you
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What is the Hazard Mitigation Anton Plan
anow does itoHe, you and your
communes?
Qlreatons & Survey
jitSwarm
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Ploe
Public Meeting 1 was held on Monday, November 13, 2023. This meeting was held at the Brazos
Center located in Bryan, Texas. This meeting was also hosted through Zoom for those that may
not have been able to attend in person.
The meeting invitation was sent out to the Brazos County Employee Network, the Texas A & M
Network, The City of Bryan, and College Station Employees. Posted on the CEOC Facebook
Page and flyers posted within Brazos County and the participating entities.
258
Flyers with link for the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan
7mn .�, Survey — Posted in Public Areas within Brazos County
'� >M and the participating entities.
Brazes Community Emergency Operations Center
Help your local erneraeMv manacement ^artners by cornnletn9 a
HAZARD MITIGATION ACTION PLAN
It will only take 5 minutes and your answers can
help improve the
HAZARD MITIGATION ACTION PLAN.
www.surveymonkey.com/r/EICHMPUIxiate
Brazos Community Emergency Operations Center
PLAN DEACCION DE RIESGO DE MITIGACION.
SOLO TARDARAS 5 MINUTOS y tus respuestas
pueden ayudar a mejorar el
PLAN DE ACTION DE RIESGO DE MITIGACION.
www.surveymonkey.comlr/BCHMPUpdate
259
Hazard Mitigation Action Plan Meeting #2
Sign in Sheet
Date: Monday, December 11, 2023 Time: 6.00-730 pm
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Public Meeting 2 was held on Monday, December 11, 2023.
This meeting was held at the Brazos Center located in Bryan,
Texas. This meeting was also hosted through Zoom for those
that may not have been able to attend in person.
The meeting invitation was sent out to the Brazos County
,a n�m„� Employee Network, the Texas A & M Network, The City of
Bryan, and College Station Employees. Posted on the CEOC
Facebook Page and flyers posted within Brazos County and the
participating entities. This meeting was also posted in the local
newspaper, "The Eagle" in the Marketplace section on Tuesday
December 5, 2023.
260
Appendix E — Partners in Outreach Meeting Documents
Brazos County and its participating entities work with various partners in outreach within our
communities. These partners are volunteer organizations that promote active, timely, and nimble
collaborative opportunities with individuals and organizations. Brazos County and its
participating entities work closely with these organizations and appreciate their service to the
communities and value their suggestions for ideas that we can include in our operations for better
outreach and mitigation practices.
Good morning:
First and foremost, I want to start by saying thank you for all that you do for all the residents of Brazos County and your
continuing efforts to lift our communities up!
I need to share information about a project the Emergency Management community has been working on. There is a committee
that has been working since early last year to update our Brazos County Hazard Action Mitigation Plan. The Hazard Mitigation
Action Plan (HMAP) describes the natural hazards/weather (flooding, drought, wildland fire, severe winter weather, tornadoes,
hail, thunderstorms and wind, excessive/extreme heat) that impact our community. We have also included a quasi -technological
hazard (dam failures) and a chapter on infectious diseases. The Plan identifies actions/projects that can be taken or done to help
reduce or eliminate long-term risks to human and animal lives as well as minimize or eliminate damage to properties (both
residential and business).
The HMAP is required to be updated and approved by TDEM and FEMA every five years. During the process, it is made
available for the public/stakeholders to see, review, and submit comments to Committee members. This document outlines the
mitigation information/efforts for Brazos County, the Cities of Bryan, College Station, Kurten Wixon Valley, and Texas A & M
University.
We are trying to put the finishing touches on the updated HMAP. But the Committee needs you and your organization's help.
FEMA has added a section that requires us to reach out to the organizations in our community that work with the underserved,
more vulnerable residents. We are asking you to review the mitigation actions/projects that have been identified for the different
hazards and participating entities and let us know if there are other actions/projects that you think would help your organization
better serve the underserved/vulnerable residents of Brazos County. I have attached the current project listing for all participating
entities. Examples of these mitigation projects that are already included in the actions/project's listings could be: purchasing
generators for use on buildings that would be used for sheltering or for cooling/warming centers, fans or blankets that can be
distributed to our residents through our VOAD organizations, etc.
In a nutshell, we need your feedback, tell us what you're doing, what you have planned, or what we can do to better assist in your
efforts. The Emergency Management Coordinators would be to discuss any ideas you might have. If possible, can you review
and provide input by next Monday, February 12th. Please reach out if you have any questions.
Thank you for your time in this matter and we appreciate your feedback!
Michele Bailey -Meade
Emergency Management Coordinator
Brazos County Office of Emergency Management
110 N. Main Street, Suite 100
Bryan, TX 77803
(979) 821-1011 office
261
Group Identification
United Way of Brazos
County
Person/Position
Reached
Peggi
Goss/President &
CEO
St. Vincent DePaul Pat Schoenemann
and St. Joseph Health
Sahai
American Red Cross Fleurant/Disaster
Program Manager
Partner Responses
Recommendations/Suggestions
Infectious Disease Mitigation
Audio Visual Program
Reasons In Place?
We are seeing so many illnesses taking people out
right now (flue, strep, covid, etc.). Is it possible to
create a few mitigation steps? Possibly something
that would encourage people to keep children out of
school and assist certain organizations in having the
proper equipment to work from home or alternate
locations dunng times of outbreaks.
There should be training in the faith -based
community and senior care facilities that could help
with mitigation (for illnesses). It seems like the
older and vulnerable populations are reverting to the
old days/ways, when everyone attends even if they
are sick and then infects the
compromised/vulnerable population.
Schools and critical infrastructure organizations are
going back to the emphasis on physical attendance
that is a detriment to controlling the spread of any
infectious disease.
Short video PSA type bits that are educational and
can be downloaded from a webpage or posted on
Facebook or Instagram, would be a great way to
reach the public, as opposed to an event -based
workshop or expo, which is expensive and has one-
time outreach. I can see setting up at expo type
events and just playing many such PSA videos and
giving out other free items. The first Friday of
every month would be a great forum. Free to set up
and done year-round, great crowds.
Audio PSAs can be done on radio, and video
possibly on cable or streaming services. These may
have a long shelf life if they are basic educational
bits about Emergency Preparedness Kits, Flood
Hazard Mitigation; Tornado Safety, Drought
Damage Mitigation, Burn Bans, Foundation
Watering, Water Conservation, etc.
You can build a library of digital PSA videos at no
cost, and they can be posted on several county and
municipal web pages, and possibly on the utility
web pages as well. Perhaps, if sponsorship money
is needed, the utility companies will be willing to
kick in some funding toward this effort and be listed
as a film's sponsor.
No
No
No
No
We would love to continue our smoke detector
Smoke Detector Program program with Bryan Fire Department (BFD) and Yes
would love to also partner with the College Station
Fire Department (CSFD).
Utilization of CERT Team for local disaster relief.
Also, allowing the CERT Team trained in sheltering No
and other"volunteer" roles.
Annual Community Awareness Meetings, Red
Cross would like to participate and present No
information on disaster preparedness.
262
Health For All
Catholic
Charities/Salvation
Army
Elizabeth Dickey,
Executive Director
Tilly Flores
Emergency Preparedness
(proposed)
Accessible Transportation
Services (proposed)
Community Safe Spaces
(proposed)
Community Based Early
Warning Systems (proposed)
Information Dissemination
(proposed)
Information Dissemination
(planned)
Medical Health Services
(planned)
Medical Health Services
(planned)
Food Secunty Initiatives
Financial Assistance Programs
(future)
Could we ask students to create tools or conduct
workshops tailored for underserved communities,
providing information on creating emergency plans,
assembling emergency kits, and understanding
evacuation procedures?
Collaborate with local transportation providers to
ensure accessible and affordable transportation
options for vulnerable residents during evacuations
or emergency situations.
Identify and establish safe spaces within
underserved neighborhoods where residents can
gather during extreme weather events, offering
protection and access to essential resources - most
likely churches or community centers.
Implement early warning systems within
underserved neighborhoods, utilizing community
leaders and local communication channels to
disseminate timely information about impending
disasters. (Again, we would likely begin with
churches and community centers.)
We can do a better job of communicating pertinent
information to churches, nonprofit listservs, etc. to
better communicate with our areas underserved and
more vulnerable residents.
We post flyers in exam rooms, the lobby, restrooms,
etc. to educate and inform patients on issues and
services that would benefit them and their families.
We provide primary and preventative care for
residents as well as assisting in obtaining free or
affordable prescriptions. These services are for
established patients of the clinic.
We provide culturally sensitive counseling and
support services for residents dealing with the
psychological impact of disasters.
We address food security through our community
garden, partnering with the local food bank, and
ensuring access to nutritious meals for vulnerable
populations.
Financial assistance programs to help vulnerable
residents purchase emergency supplies, make
necessary home improvements for disaster
resilience, or cover evacuation -related expenses.
Assistance programs to help vulnerable residents
Home Repair Programs (future) make necessary home repairs after a disaster.
Response
There are no current actions/projects that are not
already in place or proposed. (subject to change)
263
Appendix F — Capability Assessment
Texas A & M University
Planning and Regulatory
Planning/Regulatory Tool
Capability Type
In Place
(Y/N) or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Plans, Education/Outreach,
Hazard Mitigation Plan Technical, and Y
Administrative
Plans, Administrative,
Emergency Operations Plan Technical and Y
Education/Outreach
Continuity of Operations Plans, Administrative,
Plan (COOP) Technical and Y
Education/Outreach
Disaster Recovery Plan Plans, Technical, and Y
Administrative
Economic Development Plan Plans, Education and Y
Outreach
Stormwater Management Plans, Technical, and Y
Plan Administrative
Plans, Technical, and
Evacuation Plan Y
Administrative
Capital Improvement Plan Plans and Administrative Y
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan and College
Station; available on website; stakeholders included in planning process; staff
with skills and resources for mitigation planning and actions.
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan and College
Station; approved by executive administration; available on website; staff with
skills and resources to implement.
Overarching campus plan: many departments/units have specific plans;
training offered in person and online; staff with skills and resources to
implement.
Maintained by IT; staff with skills and resources to implement.
Associate VP -level managed; multiple community programs for education.
Plan maintained by EHS; staff with skills and resources to implement.
Building plans have evacuation procedures; staff with skills and resources to
implement.
System -level, approved by Board of Regents.
Codes and Ordinances
Code/Ordinance Tool
Capability Type
In Place
(Y/N) or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Building Codes
Fire Department Inspections
Plans
Plans; Technical;
Administrative
Y
Y
System provides facility design guidelines.
Compliant with NFPA 101 (life safety code); staff with skills and resources to
implement.
264
City of Bryan
Planning and Regulatory
Planning/Regulatory
Tool
Capability Type
In
Place
(YJN)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Hazard Mitigation
Plan
Emergency Operations
Plan
Comprehensive Land
Use Plan
National Flood
Insurance Program
(NFIP)
Community Wildfire
Protection Plan
Continuity of
Operations Plan
(COOP)
Disaster Recovery
Plan
Economic
Development Plan
Flood Mitigation Plan
Land Acquisition
(open space/public
recreation)
Stormwater
Management Plan
Evacuation Plan
Capital Improvement
Plan
Historic Preservation
Plan
Natural Resources
Protection Plan
Plans,
Education/Outreach,
Technical, and
Administration
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Y
Y
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Plans
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Plans and Finance
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and
Technical
Plans and
Administrative
Plans
Plans
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan and College Station; available on
website; stakeholders included in planning process; staff with skills and resources for mitigation
planning and actions.
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan and College Station; approved by
executive administration; available on website; staff with skills and resources to implement.
This Comprehensive Plan assesses the growth that Bryan has experienced and estimates the likely
growth that the city will have to manage in the future. New infrastructure and development are
required to sustain the built environment and maintain the character and quality of life that make
Bryan unique. A current and accurate plan is essential to this process. This Comprehensive Plan
provides a vision to guide Bryan's growth and development for the near term and for years to come.
https://www.bryantx.gov/planning-and-development-services/long-range-planning/
Flood Insurance Rate Maps are used to identify flood prone areas and plans are made accordingly
with land acquisition, drainage, and collection of rain, as well as considerations made to TXDOT
projects within the City of Bryan and their potential to affect flooding in a positive or negative way.
The intent of the COB CWPP is to reduce the risk of wildfire and promote ecosystem health. The
plan also is intended to reduce home losses and provide for the safety of residents and firefighters
during wildfires.
https://docs.bryantx.gov/fire/Bryan%20Community%20 Wildfire%20Protection%20Plan.pdf.
City of Bryan is working to enhance the current COOP plans once grant funds have been identified.
This is an action item listed in the current Flood Mitigation Plan.
Contained in Chapter 2 of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.
Contained in Appendix B, Section B.1.3 of the Floodplain Management Plan, "Natural Resource
Protection".
Contained in Chapter 8 of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, "Parks, Recreation, and Open Space".
https://docs.bryantx.gov/water/stormwater/accessible/COB_SWMP_2020.pdf and
https://docs.bryantx.gov/engineering/Report.pdf. and
https://library municode.com/tx/bryan/codes/codeof ordinances?nodeld=PTIICOOR CH46STMA.
Multi -Agency evacuation plan contained in Emergency Management Annex E: Evacuation.
Rolling 5-year CIP that is updated every 2 years.
Planning staff updated the plan in June 2023, and it is maintained by development services.
Contained in Appendix B, Section B.1.3 of the Floodplain Management Plan, "Natural Resource
Protection".
Codes and Ordinances
Code/Ordinance
Tool
Capability Type
In
Place
(YJN)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
265
Floodplain
Management
Ordinance/NFIP
Compliance
Building Codes
Fire Department
Inspections
International Property
Maintenance Code
Hazard Specific
Ordinances
Site Plan Development
Review Ordinances
Subdivision
Development Review
Ordinances
Zoning Ordinances
Code of Ordinances
Post Disaster
Redevelopment
Ordinance
Plans
Plans
Y
Y
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans; Technical;
Administrative
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Y
Contained in the FMP: https://docs.bryantx.gov/engineering/FMP.pdf.
The COB has adopted the 2021 International Building Code and International Roofing Resiliency
Code to assist with insurance and mitigation strategies.
Managed by the City Fire Marshal's Office.
Managed by the City Fire Marshal's Office.
Code of ordinances at
https://library.municode.com/tx/bryan/codes/code_of ordinances?node1d=14054.
Code of ordinances at
https://library.municode.com/tx/bryan/codes/code_of ordinances?node1d=14054.
Code of ordinances at
https://library.municode.com/tx/bryan/codes/code_of ordinances?node1d=14054.
Code of ordinances at
https://library municode.com/tx/bryan/codes/code_of ordinances?nodeld=14054.
Code of ordinances at
https://library.municode.com/tx/bryan/codes/code_of ordinances?node1d=14054.
Contained in the Floodplain Management Plan, Appendix B.1.4 "Emergency Services Measures."
This is something that will be enhanced from recent lessons learned - tornado, winter storms, etc.
Administrative and Technical
Administrative/Technical
Tool
Engineering Department
Code Enforcement
Department
Board of Education
Emergency Management
Maintenance Department
Mitigation Implementation
Team
Mutual Aid Agreements
Planning
Commission/Zoning
Board
Public Utility Board (s)
Public Works Department
Capability Type
Administration
and Engineering
Services
Administration
and Code
Enforcement
Bryan
Independent
School District
BC CEOC
Facility Services
BC CEOC
BC CEOC
Planning and
Development
Services
Administration
Public Works
In
Place
('JN)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Notes
W. Paul Kaspar, P.E., City Engineer. Engineering Department Manager.
https://www.bryantx.gov/engineering-services/.
The City of Bryan Code Enforcement Department is responsible for handling code violations. The
city is divided into 10 zones, or areas, each of which has one officer assigned to handle all
violations within that zone. https://www.bryantx.gov/codeenforcement/.
The Bryan ISD Board of Trustees are elected leaders who establish policies and regulations to
operate the school district. They also identify district needs and goals, conduct elections, approve
employee certified personnel, adopt the district budget, approve the district tax rate, approve
purchase of property, award bids, approve building plans, accept projects, serve as an appellate
body, and serve on standing committees. https://www.bryanisd.org/o/bisd/page/board-of-trustees.
Emergency Management Coordinator - Jeanelle Johnson - johnsonj@bryantx.gov (subject to
change).
Marcus Walker. Parks Operations and Facility Services Manager. 979-209-5522.
Emergency Management Coordinator - Jeanelle Johnson - johnsonj@bryantx.gov (subject to
change).
Emergency Management Coordinator - Jeanelle Johnson - johnsonj@bryantx.gov (subject to
change).
Planning and Development. 979-209-5030. planning@bryantx.gov/Building Permits and
Inspections. 979-209-5030. building@bryantx.gov (subject to change).
The BTU Board was created in 2001 by Ordinance of the Bryan City Council to oversee the
operations of the electric utility and is appointed by the City Council.
Https://www.btutilities.com/about-btu/leadership/.
City of Bryan Public Works Department (979) 209-5900.
266
Purchasing Department
Civil
Engineer/Construction
Management
Grant Administrator
Grant Writer
Purchasing
Services
Administration
and Engineering
Services
Finance
COB Employees
(Departments
Vary)
Purchasing Services is responsible for procuring goods and services for all city departments and
Y Y performing these purchases in accordance with state and local requirements. Phebe Mosley.
Manager. 979-209-5500. purchasingweb@bryantx.gov.
W. Paul Kaspar, P.E., City Engineer. Engineering Department Manager.
Y Y https://www.bryantx.gov/engineering-services/.
Y Y Fiscal Services. 979-209-5080.
COB employees are responsible for fmding, writing, filing, and dispersing grant(s)as pertains to
Y Y p g g' g' p g
their department or service.
Financial
Financial Tool
Capability Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Capital Improvements
Program
Community Development
Block Grant
FEMA - Public Assistance
406 Mitigation
Funding Programs (State)
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
Y Rolling 5-year CIP that is updated every 2 years.
N Did not pursue for current grant cycle but being considered for new fiscal year.
Y Multiple projects open and closed.
Y Public safety funding provided through OOG and TFS.
Education and Outreach
Education/Outreach
Tool
Capability Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Storm Ready Certification
Seasonal Emergency
Management and
Mitigation Outreach
Fire Wise USA
Certification
Local Citizen Groups or
Non -Profit Organizations
Environmental Protection
Emergency Preparedness
Access and Functional
Needs
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
BC CEOC
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
BC CEOC
Public Works
BC CEOC
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
N The City of Bryan is pursuing this through National Weather Service.
Emergency Management Coordinator - Jeanelle Johnson - johnsonj@bryantx.gov (subject to
Y
change).
Y City Marshall's Office.
Y Managed through partnerships, Agreements with VOADS.
Y City of Bryan Public Works Department (979) 209-5900.
y Emergency Management Coordinator - Jeanelle Johnson - johnsonj@bryantx.gov (subject to
change).
Y STEAR Data Custodian.
Natural Disaster or Safety
Related School Programs
Ongoing Public Education
or Information Programs
Environmental Education Public Works Y
Plans,
Fire Safety Administration, Y
and Technical
Bryan
Independent Y
School District
BC CEOC
Y
Household Preparedness BC CEOC Y
The Bryan ISD Board of Trustees are elected leaders who establish policies and regulations to
operate the school district. They also identify district needs and goals, conduct elections, approve
employee certified personnel, adopt the district budget, approve the district tax rate, approve
purchase of property, award bids, approve building plans, accept projects, serve as an appellate
body, and serve on standing committees. https://www.bryanisd.org/o/bisd/page/board-of-trustees.
Emergency Management Coordinator - Jeanelle Johnson - johnsonj@bryantx.gov (subject to
change).
City of Bryan Public Works Department (979) 209-5900.
City Marshall's Office.
Managed through partnerships, mostly American Red Cross.
267
Responsible Water Use Public Works Y City of Bryan Public Works Department (979) 209-5900.
Public/Private Partnership Emergency Management Coordinator - Jeanelle Johnson - johnsonj@bryantx.gov (subject to
initiatives addressing BC CEOC 1 change).
disaster -related issues
268
City of College Station
Planning/Regulatory
Tool
Capability Type
In
Place
°UM
or
N/A
FT/PT
Planning and Regulatory
Notes
Hazard Mitigation Plan
Emergency Operations
Plan
Comprehensive Land
Use Plan
National Flood
Insurance Program
(NFIP)
Community Wildfire
Protection Plan
Continuity of
Operations Plan
(COOP)
Economic
Development Plan
Flood Mitigation Plan
Transportation Plan
Stormwater
Management Plan
Capital Improvement
Plan
Plans,
Education/Outreach,
Technical, and
Administration
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Y
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans and Finance Y
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Transportation
Division
Y
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans and
Administrative
Y
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan and College Station; available
on website; stakeholders included in planning process; staff with skills and resources for
mitigation planning and actions.
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan and College Station, approved
by executive administration; available on website; staff with skills and resources to implement.
The strategic guide that expresses the values and aspirations of our community is called the
Comprehensive Plan. It is the broadest public policy document that our community creates. It
establishes a long-range vision for College Station's growth and development, housing, mobility,
parks, the environment, economic development, city -provided infrastructure and services, and
other related topics. The College Station Comprehensive Plan acts as a guidebook for decision -
makers and is implemented over time through ordinances, infrastructure investments, and other
public and private development decisions. The Comprehensive Plan includes, among other
components, Future Land Use and Thoroughfare Plans.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps are used to identify flood prone areas and plans are made accordingly
with land acquisition, drainage, and collection of ram, as well as considerations made to TXDOT
projects within the City of College Station and their potential to affect flooding in a positive or
negative way.
A CWPP can help protect against the threats of wildfire and reduce losses. By developing a
CWPP, the COCS in outlining a strategic plan to mitigate, prepare, respond, and recover.
When a natural or human -caused disaster strikes, city services are extremely vulnerable to
disruptions at the very time when they are needed most. Having viable Continuity of Operations
(COOP) plans that allow the City of College Station to operate under the most adverse conditions
is critical, not only to continuing essential services, but also to maintaining public confidence.
Intelligent and thorough planning— specifically, tailored COOP plans can help to ensure the
city's ability to rebound quickly and effectively after a disruption event.
The College Station Economic Development Master Plan was adopted by the city council in 2020
and guides the community's economic development path for the next 5-10 years. The intent of the
master planning process is to ensure growth and development advance the city's economic
development objectives.
This article is adopted under the authority of the Constitution and laws of the State and pursuant to
the provisions of the Charter of the City. (Code 2011 (Repub.), § 13-1(A))
State Law reference— Flood Control and Insurance Act, Texas Water Code § 16.311 et seq.;
goveming body required to adopt ordinances or orders necessary to participate in National Flood
Insurance Program, Texas Water Code § 16.3145; responsibility to establish flood hazard
regulations, Texas Water Code § 16.315.
The Transportation Planning Division is responsible for leading the long range and short-range
planning efforts related to multi -modal transportation and providing support as different aspects of
the transportation system are implemented through land acquisition and the development review
process. The Thoroughfare Plan provides a long-term vision of the major street network necessary
to meet future travel needs. The Thoroughfare Plan locates and classifies major streets by access
to adjacent land use, mobility for through traffic, and context.
The City of College Station developed a city-wide Stormwater Management Program in
accordance with the requirements published in the MS4 General Permit TXR040000 for obtaining
authorization for stormwater discharges and certain non-stormwater discharges. The SWMP has
been developed to facilitate the City's efforts in reducing stormwater pollutants from the City's
MS4 to the maximum extent practicable.
The City of College Station has a five-year Capital Improvement Plan that addresses infrastructure
needs in College Station resulting from growth and aging existing infrastructure. General
government capital projects include streets, parks, and public facilities.
269
Codes and Ordinances
Code/Ordinance Tool
Floodplain
Management
Ordinance/NFIP
Compliance
Building Codes
Fire Department
Inspections
International Property
Maintenance Code
Site Plan Development
Review Ordinances
Subdivision
Development Review
Ordinances
Zoning Ordinances
Capability Type
Plans
Plans
In
Place
(YND
or
N/A
Y
Y
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans,
Administration, and Y
Technical
Plans Y
Plans
Plans
Y
Y
FT/PT
Notes
This article is adopted under the authonty of the Constitution and laws of the State and pursuant to
the provisions of the Charter of the City. (Code 2011 (Repub.), § 13-1(A))
State Law reference— Flood Control and Insurance Act, Texas Water Code § 16.311 et seq.;
governing body required to adopt ordinances or orders necessary to participate in National Flood
Insurance Program, Texas Water Code § 16.3145; responsibility to establish flood hazard
regulations, Texas Water Code § 16.315.
The COB has adopted the 2021 International Building Code and International Roofing Resiliency
Code to assist with insurance and mitigation strategies. For additional information or questions,
please contact Building Official, Bnan Binford at bbinford@cstx.gov or 979.764.3570. (subject to
change).
The Fire Marshal's Office performs pre -construction site reviews and inspections, fire alarm and
sprinkler systems plan review, inspection and testing, fire safety inspections for commercial
occupancies (as well as daycare centers, foster homes, and health care facilities), and fire cause
investigations. Criteria for all reviews and inspections are based upon the 2021 International Fire
Code, the Unified Development Ordinance, and adopted amendments.
The City of College Station has adopted the family of International Building Codes to regulate
construction. You can view a copy of these codes in our office. We have adopted the following
which came into effect on June 1, 2022.
https://www.cstx.gov/departments city_hall/pds/regulations/building_codes.
The city has also adopted local changes or amendments to some of the codes listed below. You
may access our local amendments to each code by clicking on "Adopted Amendments".
https://www.cstx.gov/departments city_hall/pds/regulations/udo.
The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)contains all development regulations in one
document and includes regulations pertammg to zoning and use, platting, site plan development,
and building permits. The UDO also includes an overview of the development review bodies,
review procedures, zoning districts, use regulations, development standards, and non -
conformities. https://www.cstx.gov/departmentscity_hall/pds/regulations/udo.
The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)contains all development regulations in one
document and includes regulations pertaining to zoning and use, platting, site plan development,
and building permits. The UDO also includes an overview of the development review bodies,
review procedures, zoning districts, use regulations, development standards, and non -
conformities. https://www.cstx.gov/departmentscity_hall/pds/regulations/udo.
Administrative and Technical
Administrative/Technical
Tool
Engineering Department
Code Enforcement
Department
Board of Education
Capability
Type
Engineering
Department
Code
Enforcement
Division
College Station
Independent
School District
Emergency Management BC CEOC
In
Place
(WM
or
N/A
Y
FT/PT
Y
Y Y
Notes
Carol Cotter, P.E., CFM, City Engineer. ccotterna,cstx.gov (subject to change).
The Code Enforcement Division is the "one stop shop" for premise code enforcement issues. 979-
764-6363 or codeenforcement@cstx.gov (subject to change).
The seven -member College Station ISD Board of Trustees all serve for three-year terms in large
Y Y positions. The CSISD Board of Trustees meets the third Tuesday of each month unless otherwise
indicated on the meeting schedule. https://www.csisd.org/board.
Y Y Tradd Mills. Emergency Management Coordinator. tmills@cstx.gov (subject to change).
270
Maintenance Department
Mitigation Implementation
Team
Mutual Aid Agreements
Planning
Commission/Zoning
Board
Public Works
Department
BC CEOC and
City Manager
BC CEOC and
City Manager
Planning and
Development
Public Utility Board (s) College Station
Utilities
Public Works Department
Purchasing Department
Civil
Engineer/Construction
Management
Grant Administrator
Grant Writer
Public Works
Department
Purchasing
Division
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Administration Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Administration
COOS
Employees
(Each
Department
Vary)
The Public Works Department consists of the following divisions: Administration, Drainage
Maintenance, Facilities Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance,
Solid Waste and Recycling Collections, Streets Maintenance, and Traffic Engineering, Signals,
Signs and Markings. The department has held the prestigious American Public Works Association
(APWA) accreditation since 2012. pubworks@cstx.gov (subject to change).
Emergency Management Coordinator - Tradd Mills - tmills@cstx.gov (subject to change).
Emergency Management Coordinator - Tradd Mills - tmills@cstx.gov (subject to change).
Planning and Development Services. 979-764-3570. cspds@cstx.gov.
College Station Utilities is a leading utility providing high -quality, customer -owned services to
citizens. We provide electric, water and wastewater services, and manage a 24-hour dispatch for
residential and commercial customers in College Station. 979.764.3535 (subject to change).
The Public Works Department consists of the following divisions: Administration, Drainage
Maintenance, Facilities Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance,
Solid Waste and Recycling Collections, Streets Maintenance, and Traffic Engineering, Signals,
Signs and Markings. The department has held the prestigious American Public Works Association
(APWA) accreditation since 2012. (subject to change).
The City of College Station Purchasing Division is committed to procuring goods and services in
a manner that provides for free and unrestricted competition while ensuring the taxpayers the best
possible return on and use of their tax dollars. All procurement activities shall be in compliance
with all City policies and applicable local, state, and federal laws. Lisa D. Davis, CPM, APP.
Purchasing Manager. ldavis@cstx.gov (subject to change).
David Vaughn, CFM, Engineering Program Specialist. Dvaughn.cstx.gov (subject to change).
Fiscal Services.
COCS employees are responsible for finding, writing, filing, and dispersing grant(s) as pertains to
their department or service.
Financial Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
°UM
or
N/A
FT/PT
Financial
Notes
Capital Improvements
Program
Community Development
Block Grant
FEMA - Hazard
Mitigation Assistance
FEMA - Public Assistance
406 Mitigation
Education/Outreach
Tool
Storm Ready Certification
Plans,
Administration, Y
and Technical
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
Plans,
Administration,
and Technical
Capability
Type
Emergency
Management
and City
Manager
The City of College Station has a five-year Capital Improvement Plan that addresses infrastructure
needs in College Station resulting from growth and aging existing infrastructure. General
government capital projects include streets, parks, and public facilities.
N Did not pursue for current grant cycle but being considered for new fiscal year.
Y Multiple projects open and closed.
Y Public safety funding provided through OOG and TFS.
Education and Outreach
In
Place
('JN)
or
N/A
Y
FT/PT
Notes
On Feb. 28, 2008, the City of College Station received a Storm Ready® Certification.
271
Seasonal Emergency
Management and
Mitigation Outreach
Fire Wise USA
Certification
Local Citizen Groups or
Non -Profit Organizations
BC CEOC Y Emergency Management Coordinator - Tradd Mills - tmills@cstx.gov (subject to change).
Plans,
Administration, Y
and Technical
VOADS
Y
Environmental Protection Public Works Y
Emergency Preparedness
Access and Functional
Needs
Natural Disaster or Safety
Related School Programs
Ongoing Public Education
or Information Programs
BC CEOC Y
Plans,
Administration, Y
and Technical
College Station
Independent Y
School District
BC CEOC Y
Environmental Education Public Works Y
Plans,
Fire Safety Administration, Y
and Technical
Household Preparedness BC CEOC Y
Responsible Water Use
Public/Private Partnership
initiatives addressing
disaster -related issues
Public Works
Department
Y
City Fire Marshall's Office.
National VOAD, American Red Cross, FB - ARC Bryan, Brazos ARES, Brazos Valley CERT,
Brazos Valley Food Bank, FB - The Salvation Army, Texas Methodist Men Disaster Relief, and
The United Way of the Brazos Valley.
The Public Works Department consists of the following divisions: Administration, Drainage
Maintenance, Facilities Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance,
Solid Waste and Recycling Collections, Streets Maintenance, and Traffic Engineering, Signals,
Signs and Markings. The department has held the prestigious American Public Works Association
(APWA) accreditation since 2012. (subject to change).
Emergency Management Coordinator - Tradd Mills - tmills@cstx.gov (subject to change).
STEAR Data Custodian.
The seven -member College Station ISD Board of Trustees all serve for three-year terms in large
positions. The CSISD Board of Trustees meets the third Tuesday of each month unless otherwise
indicated on the meeting schedule. https://www.csisd.org/board.
Emergency Management Coordinator - Tradd Mills - tmills@cstx.gov (subject to change).
The Public Works Department consists of the following divisions: Administration, Drainage
Maintenance, Facilities Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance,
Solid Waste and Recycling Collections, Streets Maintenance, and Traffic Engineering, Signals,
Signs and Markings. The department has held the prestigious American Public Works Association
(APWA) accreditation since 2012. (subject to change).
City Fire Marshall's Office.
Managed through partnerships, mostly Amencan Red Cross.
The Public Works Department consists of the following divisions: Administration, Drainage
Maintenance, Facilities Maintenance, Fleet Maintenance, Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance,
Solid Waste and Recycling Collections, Streets Maintenance, and Traffic Engineenng, Signals,
Signs and Markings. The department has held the prestigious American Public Works Association
(APWA) accreditation since 2012. (subject to change).
BC CEOC Y Emergency Management Coordinator - Tradd Mills - tmills@cstx.gov (subject to change).
272
City of Wixon Valley
Planning and Regulatory
Planning/Regulatory Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(WM
or
N/A
Hazard Mitigation Plan Plans and
Administration
Emergency Operations Plan Plans and
Administration
National Flood Insurance Plans and
Program (NFIP) Administration
Community Wildfire Protection Plans and
Plan Administration
Disaster Recovery Plan
Economic Development Plan
Transportation Plan
Stormwater Management Plan
Evacuation Plan
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
FT/PT
Notes
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan, Wixon Valley, Kurten
and College Station; available on website; stakeholders included in planning process; staff
with skills and resources for mitigation planning and actions.
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan, Wixon Valley, Kurten,
and College Station; approved by executive administration; available on website; staff with
skills and resources to implement.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps are used to identify flood prone areas and plans are made
accordingly with land acquisition, drainage, and collection of rain, as well as considerations
made to TXDOT projects within the City of College Station and their potential to affect
flooding in a positive or negative way.
A CWPP can help protect against the threats of wildfire and reduce losses. By developing a
CWPP, the COCS in outlining a strategic plan to mitigate, prepare, respond, and recover.
Being developed for Brazos County to include the City of Wixon Valley and the City of
Kurten.
Y Emergency Management Annex J - Recovery https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
Y
The purpose of the CEDs is to serve as the guide in the continuing successful economic
development projects, the facilitation of new projects, and establishing economic recovery
based on analysis of the region's economic situation because of the COVID -19 pandemic.
https://www.bvcog.org/Portals/0/Economic%20Dev/CEDS/Final_2021 CEDS.pdf.
Y Emergency Management Annex S - Transportation https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
Y
To the extent allowable by State and local law, Brazos County SWMP was developed and
will be implemented according to requirements of TPDES General Permit TXR 040000, for
discharges of stormwater to surface water in the State. This SWMP was developed to
prevent pollution in storm drainage systems to the maximum extent practicable.
Y Emergency Management Annex E - Evacuation https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
Codes and Ordinances
Code/Ordinance Tool
Floodplain Management
Ordinance/NFIP Compliance
Capability
Type
Plans and
Administration
In
Place
°UM
or
N/A
Y
FT/PT
Notes
This involves a combination of flood mitigation, emergency management, flood forecasting
and warning measures, land -use planning, and infrastructure design considering the local
flood situation and the associated hazards.
Administrative and Technical
Administrative/Technical Tool
Board of Education
Emergency Management
Capability
Type
In
Place
OUN)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Bryan
Independent Y FT Wixon Valley is served by Bryan Independent School District (BISD).
School District
BC CEOC and Y FT Emergency Management Director/Mayor - Jim Soefje wixonvalley@gmail.com (subject to
City Mayor change).
273
Mutual Aid Agreements BC CEOC and Y FT Emergency Management Director/Mayor - Jim Soefje wixonvalley@gmail.com (subject to
City Mayor change). Intra- Brazos County Agreement.
Public Utility Board (s) Administration Y PT Wickson Creek SUD.
Purchasing Department Administration Y PT All purchases for the City of Wixon Valley are approved by the Mayor and City Council.
Financial
Financial Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Funding Programs (Federal) -
NON- FEMA
Administration
Y
ARPA Funds Received.
Education and Outreach
Education/Outreach Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Seasonal Emergency Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Wixon Valley and National Night Out.
Management and Mitigation Administration Y https://www.facebook.com/WixonValleyTX/.
Outreach
Local Citizen Groups or Non -
Profit Organizations
Emergency Preparedness
Natural Disaster or Safety
Related School Programs
Ongoing Public Education or
Information Programs
Administration Y
BC CEOC and
City Mayor
Y
Administration Y
Administration Y
Fire Safety Administration Y
Household Preparedness Administration Y
Responsible Water Use
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Wixon Valley
https://www.facebook.com/WixonValleyTX/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Wixon Valley
https://www.facebook.com/WixonValleyTX/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Wixon Valley
https://www.facebook.com/WixonValleyTX/.
and National Night Out.
and National Night Out.
and National Night Out.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Wixon Valley and National Night Out.
https://www.facebook.com/WixonValleyTX/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Wixon Valley and National Night Out.
https://www.facebook.com/WixonValleyTX/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Wixon Valley and National Night Out.
https://www.facebook.com/WixonValleyTX/.
Administration Y Wickson Creek SUD.
274
City of Kurten
Planning and Regulatory
Planning/Regulatory Tool
Hazard Mitigation Plan
Emergency Operations Plan
Comprehensive Land Use Plan
National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP)
Capability
Type
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Community Wildfire Protection Plans and
Plan Administration
Disaster Recovery Plan
Economic Development Plan
Flood Mitigation Plan
Transportation Plan
Stormwater Management Plan
Evacuation Plan
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
Plans and
Administration
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
FT/PT
Notes
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan, Wixon Valley,
Kurten and College Station; available on website; stakeholders included in planning
process; staff with skills and resources for mitigation planning and actions.
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan, Wixon Valley,
Kurten, and College Station; approved by executive administration; available on website;
staff with skills and resources to implement.
Discussions are underway to develop a plan.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps are used to identify flood prone areas and plans are made
accordingly with land acquisition, drainage, and collection of rain, as well as
considerations made to TXDOT projects within the City of College Station and their
potential to affect flooding in a positive or negative way.
A CWPP can help protect against the threats of wildfire and reduce losses. By
developing a CWPP, the COCS in outlining a strategic plan to mitigate, prepare,
respond, and recover. Being developed for Brazos County to include the City of Wixon
Valley and the City of Kurten.
Emergency Management Annex J - Recovery https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
The purpose of the CEDs is to serve as the guide in the continuing successful economic
development projects, the facilitation of new projects, and establishing economic
recovery based on analysis of the region's economic situation as a result of the COVID -
19 pandemic.
https://www.bvcog.org/Portals/0/Economic%20Dev/CEDS/Final_2021 CEDS.pdf
This involves a combination of flood mitigation, emergency management, flood
forecasting and warning measures, land -use planning, and infrastructure design
considering the local flood situation and the associated hazards.
Emergency Management Annex S - Transportation https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
To the extent allowable by State and local law, Brazos County SWMP was developed
and will be implemented according to requirements of TPDES General Permit TXR
040000, for discharges of stormwater to surface water in the State. This SWMP was
developed to prevent pollution in storm drainage systems to the maximum extent
practicable.
Emergency Management Annex E - Evacuation https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
Codes and Ordinances
Code/Ordinance Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Floodplam Management
Ordinance/NF1P Compliance
Plans and
Administration
Site Plan Development Review Plans and
Ordinances Administration
Subdivision Development
Review Ordinances
Plans and
Administration
Y
Y
Y
This involves a combination of flood mitigation, emergency management, flood
forecasting and warning measures, land -use planning, and infrastructure design
considering the local flood situation and the associated hazards.
Ordinance #17 - City of Kurten (Oct 2012) This Ordinance classifies and regulates the
use of land and structures within the city limits of Kurten, as hereinafter set forth.
https://www.kurtentexas. com/wp-content/uploads/2021 /08/cokzoningordinance.pdf
Ordinance #4 - Subdivision and Development Regulations -
https://www.kurtentexas.com/wp-content/uploads/2021 /08/Kurten-Ordinance-4.pdf.
275
Zoning Ordinances
Plans and
Administration
Y
Ordinance #17 - City of Kurten (Oct 2012) This Ordinance classifies and regulates the
use of land and structures within the city limits of Kurten, as hereinafter set forth.
https://www.kurtentexas. com/wp-content/uploads/2021 /08/cokzoningordinance.pdf
Administrative and Technical
Administrative/Technical Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Code Enforcement Department Administration Y FT Planning and Zoning Personnel.
Bryan
Board of Education Independent Y FT Kurten is served by Bryan Independent School District (BISD).
School District
Emergency Management BC CEOC and Y FT Emergency Management Director/Mayor Chris Court - chris.court@kurten.texas.gov
City Mayor (subject to change).
Mutual Aid Agreements BC CEOC and Y FT Emergency Management Director/Mayor Chris Court - chris.court@kurten.texas.gov
City Mayor (subject to change). Intra-Brazos County Agreement.
Purchasing Department Administration Y PT All purchases for the City of Kurten are approved by the City Council.
Grant Works
Grant Administrator and Y PT 3rd Party Contractor - Grant Works.
Administration
Grant Works
Grant Writer and Y PT 3rd Party Contractor - Grant Works.
Administration
Financial
Financial Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Funding Programs (Federal) - Administration Y ARPA Funds Received.
NON-FEMA
Impact fees for new Administration Y Several fees depend on developments requested.
development
Education and Outreach
Education/Outreach Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Seasonal Emergency
Management and Mitigation Administration Y Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Kurten. https://www.kurtentexas.com/.
Outreach
Emergency Preparedness
Ongoing Public Education or
Information Programs
Environmental Education
Fire Safety
Household Preparedness
Responsible Water Use
BC CEOC and
City Mayor
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Administration
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Kurten. https://www.kurtentexas.com/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Kurten. https://www.kurtentexas.com/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Kurten. https://www.kurtentexas.com/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Kurten. https://www.kurtentexas.com/.
Use of Social Media Accounts for the City of Kurten. https://www.kurtentexas.com/.
Wickson Creek SUD.
276
Brazos County
Planning and Regulatory
Planning/Regulatory Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(YISO
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Hazard Mitigation Plan
Emergency Operations Plan
National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP)
Disaster Recovery Plan
Economic Development Plan
Flood Mitigation Plan
Transportation Plan
Stormwater Management Plan
Evacuation Plan
Capital Improvement Plan
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Brazos Valley
Council of
Government
(BVCOG)
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Plans and
Administration
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans, County
Judges Office,
and County
Commissioners.
Y
Y
Y
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan, Wixon Valley,
Kurten and College Station; available on website; stakeholders included in planning
process; staff with skills and resources for mitigation planning and actions.
Shared jurisdictional plan with Brazos County and Cities of Bryan, Wixon Valley,
Kurten, and College Station; approved by executive administration; available on
website; staff with skills and resources to implement.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps are used to identify flood prone areas and plans are made
accordingly with land acquisition, drainage and collection of rain, as well as
considerations made to TXDOT projects within Brazos County and participating entities
and their potential to affect flooding in a positive or negative way.
Y Emergency Management Annex J - Recovery https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
Y
Y
The purpose of the CEDs is to serve as the guide in the continuing successful economic
development projects, the facilitation of new projects, and establishing economic
recovery based on analysis of the region's economic situation as a result of the COVID -
19 pandemic.
https://www.bvcog.org/Portals/0/Economic%20Dev/CEDS/Final 2021 CEDS.pdf.
This involves a combination of flood mitigation, emergency management, flood
forecasting and warning measures, land -use planning, and infrastructure design
considering the local flood situation and the associated hazards.
Y Emergency Management Annex S - Transportation https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
To the extent allowable by State and local law, Brazos County SWMP was developed
and will be implemented according to requirements of TPDES General Permit TXR
Y 040000, for discharges of stormwater to surface water in the State. This SWMP was
developed to prevent pollution in storm drainage systems to the maximum extent
practicable.
Y Emergency Management Annex E - Evacuation https://bcdem.org/emergency/plans.
Y
The CIP is a five-year infrastructure plan which matches the County's highest pronty
capital needs with a financing schedule. The CIP includes building, remodeling, and
upgrading of public facilities and infrastructure systems.
https://brazoscountytx.gov/609/Capital-Improvement-Program.
Codes and Ordinances
Code/Ordinance Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(Y/N)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
Floodplain Management
Ordmance/NFIP Compliance
Building Codes
Brazos County
Road & Bndge
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Y
Y
This involves a combination of flood mitigation, emergency management, flood
forecasting and warning measures, land -use planning, and infrastructure design
considering the local flood situation and the associated hazards.
On 1 September 2009, Brazos County adopted the 2003 International Residential Code
and the 2002 National Electrical Code. Proof of construction compliance with these
codes in the unincorporated areas of BC is required. More information is through the
Brazos County Road & Bridge for permitting requirements related to driveways/culverts
277
Subdivision Development Review
Ordinances
Zoning Ordinances
Administrative/Technical Tool
Engineering Department
Emergency Management
Maintenance Department
Mitigation Implementation Team
Mutual Aid Agreements
Purchasing Department
Civil Engineer/Construction
Management
Grant Administrator
Grant Writer
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Capability
Type
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
County Court
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
County Court
Brazos County
Road & Bridge
Administration
Services
Y
Y
In
Place
(YIN)
or
N/A
Y
and for permitting requirements related to development in the floodplam.
https://brazoscountytx.gov/455/Land-Development.
These regulations have been prepared in general to aid in the orderly development of
Brazos County, Texas. And provide guidelines which will lead to a desirable
environment. Effective Date: 5 July 2016.
https://www.brazoscountytx.gov/DocumentCenter/View/896/Sudivision-and-
Development-Reps?bidld.
On September 1, 2009, BC adopted the 2003 International Residential Code and the
2002 National Electrical Code. Proof of Construction Compliance with these codes in
the unincorporated areas of BC is required.
https://brazoscountytx.gov/DocumentCenter/View/ 1330/Memorandum-Development-
Requirements?bidld.
Administrative and Technical
FT/PT Notes
FT County Engineer - Prarthana Banerji - pbanerji@brazoscountytx.gov (subject to change).
Y FT
Y FT Building Maintenance.
Y FT
Y FT
Y FT Purchasing Agent.
Y FT
Y FT
BC Employees
(Each
Department Y PT
Vary) and
Grant Works
Emergency Management Coordinator - Michele Meade - emc@bcdem.org (subject to
change).
Emergency Management Coordinator - Michele Meade - emc@bcdem.org (subject to
change)
Emergency Management Coordinator - Michele Meade - emc@bcdem.org (subject to
change).
County Engineer.
This unit, consisting of vanous administrative staff, is primarily responsible for five
major functions: administration and management of grants, policy and procedure, annual
budgets, residential and nonresidential contracts, and maintenance of department
facilities.
BC employees are responsible for finding, writing, filing, and dispersing grant(s) as
pertains to their department or service and 3rd Party Contractor - Grant Works.
Financial
Financial Tool
Funding Programs
Funding Programs (State)
Capital Improvements Program
Capability
Type
Administration
Services
Administration
Services
Plans, County
Judges Office,
and County
Commissioners.
In
Place
(YUN)
or
N/A
Y
Y
Y
FT/PT
Notes
ARPA Funds Received.
Law Enforcement, Public Defenders
Enacted in 2023. The CIP is a five-year infrastructure plan which matches the County's
highest priority capital needs with a financing schedule. The CIP includes building,
remodeling, and upgrading of public facilities and infrastructure systems.
https://brazoscountytx.gov/609/Capital-Improvement-Program.
Education and Outreach
Education/Outreach Tool
Capability
Type
In
Place
(YIN)
or
N/A
FT/PT
Notes
278
Plans,
Seasonal Emergency Management Administration,
and Mitigation Outreach and Emergency
Management
Local Citizen Groups or Non -Profit
Organizations
Emergency Preparedness
Access and Functional Needs
Ongoing Public Education or
Information Programs
Fire Safety
Household Preparedness
VOADS
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Plans,
Administration,
and Emergency
Management
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
BC CEOC hosts platforms on Facebook, and a CEOC website that distributes seasonal
mitigation information as well as mitigation outreach. https://brazosceoc.org/info and
National Night Out.
National VOAD, American Red Cross, FB - ARC Bryan, Brazos ARES, Brazos Valley
CERT, Brazos Valley Food Bank, FB - The Salvation Army, Texas Methodist Men
Disaster Relief, and The United Way of the Brazos Valley.
BC CEOC hosts platforms on Facebook, and a CEOC website that distributes seasonal
mitigation information as well as mitigation outreach. https://brazosceoc.org/info and
National Night Out.
BC CEOC hosts platforms on Facebook, and a CEOC
mitigation information as well as mitigation outreach.
National Night Out.
BC CEOC hosts platforms on Facebook, and a CEOC
mitigation information as well as mitigation outreach.
National Night Out.
BC CEOC hosts platforms on Facebook, and a CEOC
mitigation information as well as mitigation outreach.
National Night Out.
BC CEOC hosts platforms on Facebook, and a CEOC
mitigation information as well as mitigation outreach.
National Night Out.
website that distributes seasonal
https://brazosceoc.org/info and
website that distributes seasonal
https://brazosceoc.org/info and
website that distributes seasonal
https://brazosceoc.org/info and
website that distributes seasonal
https://brazosceoc.org/info and
279
Appendix G — Previous Mitigation Actions (2019-2024)
Hazard
Floods
Drought
Jurisdiction
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten,
Wixon Valley; and TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten,
Wixon Valley; and TAMU)
Brazos County
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
City of Kurten
City of Wixon Valley
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
Projects 2019 - 2024
Mitigation Action
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on flooding hazards,
National Flood Insurance Program and develop methods
to mitigate damage to personal properties from flooding.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Do a hydrology study of the watersheds that exist in
Brazos County that contribute to flooding during heavy
ram incidents.
Create 2D "rain on mesh" model to better identify
flooding hazards outside of riverine areas (local flooding
hazards).
Create a map showing low water crossings in the City of
Bryan. The results of the flood mapping will be used to
prioritize low water crossing
replacements/improvements.
Perform detailed studies of areas prone to flooding to
determine the most cost-effective means to reduce
potential loss. The flood studies will be used to prevent
new buildings from being built in the flood hazard area.
Purchase or elevate existing properties subject to
repetitive loss or serious repetitive losses.
Replace drainage culverts identified in Stormwater
Master Plan to improve their efficiency.
Continue to enforce building codes and STP's.
Improve flood risk assessment.
Join the National Flood Insurance Program so residents
can be eligible for
flood insurance.
Include space for a shelter in the new City Hall.
Design and construct detention ponds to control runoff
of rainwater from
Texas A&M University property.
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on drought and develop
methods to mitigate damage to personal properties from
drought.
Purchase generators for cntical facilities.
Create a series of PSA's/outreach for topics such as burn
bans, foundation watering how to's, water conservation
in times of drought.
Aquifer storage and recovery (ASR).
Monitor water supply.
Educate residents on water saving techniques.
Completed?
Not completed
Not completed
Not completed
Not completed
Completed
Ongoing
Ongoing
Not completed
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Not completed
Not completed
Not completed
Not completed
Ongoing
Ongoing
If not, why?
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Completed.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Continuous.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Continuous.
Continuous.
280
Wildland Fires
Severe Winter
Storms
Tornadoes
Texas A&M University
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Brazos County; Cities of Kurten
and Wixon Valley
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
City of Wixon Valley
City of Wixon Valley
Texas A&M University
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Incorporate drought tolerant practices into landscaping
of current and new open spaces to reduce dependence on
irrigation.
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on wildfires, the hazards
associated with wildfires, and develop methods to
mitigate damage to personal properties from wildfires.
Additionally, educate residents about the need for and
creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for cntical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Develop wildfire plan (CWPP) for the unincorporated
areas of Brazos County, to also include the cities of
Kurten and Wixon Valley.
Obtain updated low level aerial photography and
topographic mapping within the city limits and ETJ. Completed
Imagery can be used to delineate areas susceptible to
urban/wildland fire hazards.
Update/maintain wildfire plan (CWPP).
Work with Red Cross to initiate a smoke alarm program.
Map and assess vulnerability to wildfire.
Increase wildfire risk awareness.
Purchase and install flagpole and burn ban warning flags.
Install/expand City of Wixon Valley hydrant coverage.
Continue to enhance and improve the fire inspection
program.
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on winter storms, the
hazards associated with winter storms, and develop
methods to mitigate damage to personal properties from
winter storms. Additionally, educate residents about the
need for and creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Create an SOP for winter storm events including
roadway safety, power outages, etc.
Maintain hazardous weather condition information on
the city's website, including closures, safety tips, etc.
Conduct winter weather risk awareness activities.
Assist vulnerable populations.
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on tornadoes, the hazards
associated with tomadoes, and develop methods to
mitigate damage to personal properties from tornadoes.
Additionally, educate residents about the need for and
creation of preparedness kits.
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Completed Completed.
Not completed Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Some work done, but Source of funding not identified
not completed and inadequate staffing.
Completed.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Continuous.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Not completed.
Not completed
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Continuous.
Not completed Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
281
Hail
Thunderstorms
(to include
lightning and
windstorm)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
Texas A&M University
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
City of Kurten
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Purchase generators for critical facilities. Not completed
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Not completed
Purchase generators for critical facilities. Not completed
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Maintain hazardous weather condition information on
the city's website and PSA's, including closures, safety Ongoing
tips, etc.
Create PSA's, procedures to provide to residents
regarding cleanup/permit requirements after incidents, Ongoing
and information on choosing contractors.
Encourage construction of safety rooms.
Conduct tornado awareness activities.
Not completed
Ongoing
Ongoing
Enhance building emergency plans to include "areas of refuge". Ongoing
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on storms that produce hail,
the hazards associated with storms that produce hail, and
develop methods to mitigate damage to personal Not completed
properties from storms that produce hail. Additionally,
educate residents about the need for and creation of
preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Maintain hazardous weather condition information on
the city's website and PSA's, including closures, safety Ongoing
tips, etc.
Create PSA's, procedures to provide to residents
regarding cleanup/permit requirements after events and Ongoing
choosing contractors.
Locate safe rooms to minimize damage. Ongoing
Increase hail awareness. Ongoing
Create mailouts and/or social media messages that Ongoing
provide information to residents regarding the use of
weather radios, teach residents about the dangers of
lightning and safety precautions to take when severe
weather and lightning threatens.
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on thunderstorms that
produce lightning and excessive winds, the hazards
associated with storms that produce lightning and
excessive winds and develop methods to mitigate
damage to personal properties from storms that produce
lightning and excessive winds.
Additionally, educate residents about the need for and
creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for cntical facilities.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Continuous.
Continuous.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Continuous.
Ongoing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
282
Dam Failure
Excessive or
Extreme Heat
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
City of Kurten
City of Wixon Valley
Texas A&M University
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Brazos County; Cities of Bryan and
College Station
City of Bryan
City of Bryan
College Station
College Station
Texas A&M University
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Maintain hazardous weather condition information on
the city's website and PSA's, including closures, safety
tips, etc.
Install detectors in areas where there may be significant
numbers of
residents congregating outside (pools, parks, etc.).
Create/maintain tree trimming program (BTU).
Conduct lightning awareness programs.
Create and mail lightning safety brochures with COCS
water bills.
Create mailouts and/or social media messages that
provide information to residents regarding the use of
weather radios, teach residents about the dangers of
thunderstorms and safety precautions to take when
severe weather threatens.
Install surge and strike reduction rods/system in the new
City Hall.
Enhance building emergency plans to include "areas of
refuge".
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on dam and levee failures,
the hazards associated with dam and levee failure, and
develop methods to mitigate damage to personal
properties from dam and levee failure. Additionally,
educate residents about the need for and creation of
preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Conduct hydrology studies to identify the extent for each
dam on the list for which there is no current information.
The extent will be stated in the form of water depth in Not completed
the inundation area for each dam. This project is to
address data deficiencies identified in Section 13.
Maintain/update Emergency Action Plans for Country Completed
Club Lake and Lake
Bryan.
Update development regulations within the hazard areas Ongoing
identified with
the EAP's.
Conduct a study estimating economic consequences for
dam failure scenarios.
Conduct a study estimating loss of life for dam sector for
dam failure scenarios.
Enhance routine dam maintenance to include vegetation Ongoing
evaluation and
removal (as appropriate) annually.
Develop an annual public hazards workshop or expo for
all residents to educate them on excessive heat, the
hazards associated with excessive heat, and develop
methods to mitigate damage to personal properties from
excessive heat. Additionally, educate residents about the
need for and creation of preparedness kits.
Purchase generators for critical facilities.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Not completed
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Continuous.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
Completed.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Ongoing.
Continuous.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
Source of funding not identified
Not completed and inadequate staffing.
283
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Build, renovate, rehabilitate, or convert a building or
buildings for use as emergency shelters for individuals
and families.
Not completed
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Provide information to the public on where they can go
to stay cool during penods of excessive heat.
Not completed
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
All participating entities (Brazos
County; Cities of Bryan, College
Station, Kurten, Wixon Valley; and
TAMU)
Educate vulnerable populations about sources of fans
and sources of programs that can assist citizens having
trouble paying utility bills.
Not completed
Source of funding not identified
and inadequate staffing.
284
Appendix H — Sample Adoption of Hazard Mitigation Action Plan
Plan Adoption
***Sample Adoption Resolution (This will be replaced with the "Official" Adoption, once
approved.)
(LOCAL GOVERNMENT, INCLUDING SPECIAL DISTRICTS), (STATE)
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF (LOCAL GOVERNMENT) ADOPTING THE (TITLE AND DATE OF
MITIGATION PLAN).
WHEREAS the (local governing body) recognizes the threat that natural hazards pose to people
and property within (local government); and
WHEREAS the (local government) has prepared a multi -hazard mitigation plan, hereby known
as (title and date of mitigation plan) in accordance with federal laws, including the Robert T.
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended; the National Flood
Insurance Act of 1968, as amended; and the National Dam Safety Program Act, as amended; and
WHEREAS (title and date of mitigation plan) identifies mitigation goals and actions to reduce or
eliminate long-term risk to people and property in (local government) from the impacts of future
hazards and disasters; and
WHEREAS adoption by the (local governing body) demonstrates its commitment to hazard
mitigation and achieving the goals outlined in the (title and date of mitigation plan).
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE (LOCAL GOVERNMENT), (STATE),
THAT:
Section 1. In accordance with (local rule for adopting resolutions), the (local governing body)
adopts the (title and date of mitigation plan). While content related to (local government) may
require revisions to meet the plan approval requirements, changes occurring after adoption will
not require (local government) to re -adopt any further iterations of the plan. Subsequent plan
updates following the approval period for this plan will require separate adoption resolutions.
ADOPTED by a vote of in favor and against, and abstaining, this day of
By: (print name)
ATTEST: By: (print name)
APPROVED AS TO FORM: By: (print name)
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286