Flood Risk Rising: Texas Counties Among Nation’s Most Vulnerable, New Study Finds

TYLER, Texas (TXAN 24) — A new national report highlights growing flood dangers across the U.S., with Texas counties ranking among the most at risk heading into 2026.

The study, conducted by The Basement Doctor using federal data from FEMA and other agencies, analyzed flood insurance claims, disaster declarations, and payout totals to measure risk. Harris County topped the list as the most flood-prone county in the country, recording 3,800 claims, $339.8 million in payouts, and 25 federally declared disasters.

The findings show Texas, alongside Florida and Louisiana, dominates the highest-risk areas. While coastal storms remain a major factor, researchers say heavier rainfall and aging infrastructure are accelerating inland flood threats.

Other Texas counties also made the top 50, including Aransas County, Cameron County, and Liberty County—each facing repeated disasters despite lower claim totals.