Even with today’s advanced technology, no one can say with certainty when the next hurricane will strike Texas — or how powerful it will be when it does. What we do know is that major storms are becoming more frequent and more destructive, putting Texas families, workers, and entire communities at risk.
At Zehl & Associates, we’ve seen the devastation hurricanes leave behind — and we have the resources and experience to take on negligent companies and insurers when their corner-cutting and safety failures put your family in harm’s way. With Billions won for our clients, including the largest record-setting verdicts and settlements in history, our undefeated trial lawyers don’t just win cases. We set records.
Weather experts and scientists may not be able to tell you exactly when the next hurricane will hit, but their data can help you prepare — and we can help you protect your legal rights if you’re hurt because of someone else’s careless actions before, during, or after the storm.
Predicting Hurricane Formation
Scientists look for specific weather conditions when predicting hurricanes. Specifically, the thermal energy in warm ocean waters supercharges local thunderstorm activity. The Coriolis Effect produced by the Earth’s rotation causes the storm to swirl and build.
Hurricanes form at sea. Those that impact Texas typically form in the Gulf of Mexico before moving north across the state’s coast.
You can use the following data points to try to predict when a big hurricane might hit Texas:
Historical Patterns
Texas has experienced over 60 hurricanes since 1850. That means the state has been hit by a hurricane roughly once every two years and 11 months. The most recent storm to make landfall in Texas occurred in 2024. Based on the state’s records, it wouldn’t be unusual if the next hurricane hit in 2026 or 2027.
Major Hurricanes to Hit Texas
Climate scientists rate hurricanes based on their sustained wind speed. Category 1 storms are the weakest, with sustained wind speeds between 74 and 95 miles per hour. Category 5 hurricanes are the most powerful, with sustained wind speeds of 157 miles per hour or greater. The government considers any storm labeled a Category 3 or higher to be a major hurricane.
Texas has never had a Category 5 hurricane, though it has weathered 10 Category 4 hurricanes and 16 Category 3 hurricanes. Since 1900, Texas has been hit by 18 major hurricanes, or roughly one every six years and 11 months. The most recent one struck in 2017. This means that a major hurricane could hypothetically arise at any time.
Current Year’s Predictions
Colorado State University professors provide annual hurricane and tropical storm predictions for each East Coast state based on climate models.
In 2025, the scientists gave the following predictions for Texas:
- 66% chance of a tropical storm
- 41% chance of a hurricane
- 18% chance of a major hurricane
Notably, these predictions include storms tracking up to 50 miles from the state.
Hurricane Risks
When hurricanes make landfall in Texas, powerful winds and flood waters can kill or injure, whether directly or indirectly. For example, flood currents may sweep victims away to drown, or extreme winds may cause buildings to collapse onto residents.
These risks tend to escalate based on the size and strength of the storm. The damage from major hurricanes is more severe and widespread, which can also mean more deaths and injuries.
Hurricanes can also increase the risk of accidents. Trees can fall onto roads, leading to car accidents. Downed electric lines can electrocute those who come into contact with them. Flood waters can damage roads and erode the ground. Ruptured gas lines can cause explosions.
When negligence is a factor in such accidents, victims may have the right to pursue personal injury claims against the responsible party.
Contact Our Undefeated Texas Personal Injury Lawyers at Zehl & Associates for a Free Consultation
Big hurricanes are rare in Texas. On average, years may pass between hurricanes that make landfall in the state.
However, the relative rarity of these major storms doesn’t mean residents can afford to ignore the risks. The potential for widespread injuries and property damage requires everyone who lives in Texas to take hurricanes seriously, despite their lack of frequency.
For more information, please contact our Undefeated personal injury attorneys in Texas at Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Harris County, Midland County, and throughout the state of Texas. We are located in Houston and Midland and throughout the state of Texas:
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
Open 24 hours
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
Open 24 hours