Central Texas Emergency Preparedness Guide
A comprehensive, free resource for homeowners and property managers in Waco, Temple, Killeen, Belton, and surrounding Central Texas communities. Know what to do before, during, and after a water emergency.
In This Guide
Before a Storm: Preparation Checklist
Central Texas is prone to sudden, severe weather. Taking these steps before a storm can significantly reduce potential water damage to your home or business.
- 1Know your shut-off valves. Locate your main water shut-off valve and practice turning it off. Label it clearly so anyone in the household can find it during an emergency.
- 2Clear gutters and downspouts. Remove debris from gutters and ensure downspouts direct water at least 3 feet away from your foundation. Install gutter guards if possible.
- 3Inspect your roof. Check for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, and worn sealant around vents and chimneys. Address repairs before storm season.
- 4Test your sump pump. If you have a sump pump, test it by pouring water into the pit. Ensure the discharge line is clear and consider a battery backup.
- 5Seal basement and foundation cracks. Use hydraulic cement or waterproof sealant on any visible cracks in your foundation or basement walls.
- 6Elevate valuables and electronics. Store important documents, electronics, and irreplaceable items on upper shelves or upper floors, especially if you are in a flood-prone area.
- 7Review your insurance policy. Confirm what is covered under your homeowners policy. Standard policies typically do not cover flooding — you may need separate flood insurance through NFIP.
- 8Create a home inventory. Photograph or video every room, including closets and storage areas. Store copies in the cloud or off-site so you have documentation if you need to file a claim.
- 9Prepare an emergency kit. Include flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, first aid supplies, bottled water, non-perishable food, and copies of important documents.
- 10Save emergency contacts. Keep the numbers for your insurance agent, a trusted restoration company (Moisture Pro: (254) 248-7776), and local utilities in your phone and on your refrigerator.
During a Water Emergency: Step-by-Step
When water damage strikes, the actions you take in the first minutes and hours matter more than anything else. Follow these steps in order.
- 1Ensure personal safety first. If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel, do not enter the area. Turn off electricity at the main breaker if you can safely reach it.
- 2Stop the water source. If a pipe burst or appliance is leaking, shut off the main water valve immediately. For roof leaks during a storm, place buckets under drips and move belongings away.
- 3Call a professional restoration company. Contact Moisture Pro at (254) 248-7776 for immediate 24/7 emergency response. We can be on-site within 60 minutes.
- 4Document everything. Take photos and videos of the water damage, the source, and all affected areas before any cleanup begins. This documentation is critical for insurance claims.
- 5Remove what you can. Move furniture, rugs, and personal items out of standing water if it is safe to do so. Place aluminum foil or plastic under furniture legs to prevent staining.
- 6Contact your insurance company. Report the damage as soon as possible. Have your policy number ready and provide the photos you took. Ask about emergency mitigation coverage.
- 7Do NOT use a regular household vacuum on standing water. Do NOT turn on ceiling fans or HVAC systems if the ceiling is wet or sagging. Leave these decisions to professionals.
After Water Damage: What to Do and What NOT to Do
DO
- Open windows and doors to increase air circulation if weather permits and it is safe to do so.
- Remove wet area rugs and hang them to dry. Lift carpet edges if possible to allow airflow underneath.
- Wipe excess water from wood furniture and prop cushions for drying.
- Keep a detailed log of all damaged items with descriptions and estimated values for your insurance claim.
- Save receipts for any emergency purchases (fans, tarps, hotel stays) as your insurance may reimburse them.
- Follow your restoration company's instructions for re-entering treated areas.
DO NOT
- Do NOT use a household vacuum to remove standing water. It is an electrocution risk and will damage the vacuum.
- Do NOT turn on ceiling fans if the ceiling is wet or sagging. The fan could detach and cause injury.
- Do NOT enter rooms with standing water if electricity has not been shut off to those areas.
- Do NOT attempt to remove mold yourself without proper protective equipment. Disturbing mold can spread spores throughout your home.
- Do NOT discard damaged items before documenting them. Your insurance adjuster needs to see or verify the damage.
- Do NOT wait to begin the drying process. Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours in Central Texas humidity.
Central Texas Flood Zones: Know Your Risk
Central Texas sits at the eastern edge of "Flash Flood Alley," one of the most flood-prone regions in North America. Understanding your local flood risk is the first step to protecting your property.
Brazos River Corridor
The Brazos River runs through Wacoand McLennan County. Properties in low-lying areas near the river, including neighborhoods along Lake Waco's spillway, are at elevated risk during heavy spring rains. The 2015 and 2016 Memorial Day floods caused significant damage in these areas.
Leon River & Lampasas River
The Leon River flows through Belton and Bell County, feeding into Belton Lake. The Lampasas River joins the Leon near Belton. Properties along these river corridors and in adjacent floodplains are particularly vulnerable during rapid runoff events.
Lake Belton & Lake Waco
While these reservoirs are designed for flood control, properties downstream and in low-lying areas adjacent to the lakes can experience flooding during extended heavy rainfall periods. Dam releases during high-water events can also affect downstream communities.
Urban Flash Flooding
Cities like Killeen, Temple, and Waco have urban drainage systems that can be overwhelmed during intense rainfall. Low-water crossings, underpasses, and areas with poor drainage are especially dangerous during flash flood events.
Check your property's flood zone designation using FEMA's Flood Map Service Center. Even if you are not in a designated flood zone, flash flooding can affect any property in Central Texas.
Important Emergency Contacts
Save these numbers in your phone and keep a printed copy in your emergency kit.
| Organization | Contact |
|---|---|
| Moisture Pro Water Damage Restoration (24/7) | (254) 248-7776 |
| Emergency Services (Police, Fire, EMS) | 911 |
| FEMA Disaster Assistance | 1-800-621-3362 | fema.gov |
| Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) | (512) 424-2208 | tdem.texas.gov |
| American Red Cross (Central Texas Chapter) | 1-800-733-2767 | redcross.org |
| National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) | 1-800-611-6125 | floodsmart.gov |
| Texas Department of Insurance | 1-800-252-7031 | tdi.texas.gov |
| City of Waco Utilities | (254) 750-1600 |
| City of Temple Utilities | (254) 298-6400 |
| City of Killeen Utilities | (254) 501-6300 |
Insurance Claims: A Homeowner's Guide
Filing a water damage insurance claim can feel overwhelming. These tips will help you document properly, avoid common mistakes, and maximize your coverage.
1. Document Damage Immediately
Before any cleanup begins, photograph and video every affected area from multiple angles. Include wide shots of entire rooms and close-ups of specific damage. Photograph the source of the water if visible. Date-stamped photos are especially valuable.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company Promptly
Most policies require prompt notification. Call your insurance company as soon as it is safe to do so. Have your policy number ready. Ask specifically what is covered, what your deductible is, and whether emergency mitigation costs are reimbursable.
3. Do Not Delay Mitigation
Insurance policies typically require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. This means you should begin mitigation (water extraction, drying) immediately. Waiting can result in a reduced or denied claim. Moisture Pro can begin emergency mitigation while you file your claim.
4. Keep Every Receipt
Save receipts for hotel stays, meals, temporary housing, emergency supplies, and any other expenses related to the damage. Your policy's Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage may reimburse these costs.
5. Get a Professional Assessment
A professional restoration company like Moisture Pro provides detailed moisture mapping, damage assessments, and scope-of-work documentation that supports your claim. Our reports include moisture readings, affected materials, and recommended repairs — the same format insurance adjusters use.
6. Understand Your Coverage
Standard Texas homeowners insurance typically covers sudden and accidental water damage (burst pipes, appliance malfunctions, storm damage through the roof). It does not typically cover flood damage, gradual leaks, or maintenance-related issues. Flood insurance is available separately through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Seasonal Risks in Central Texas
Different seasons bring different water damage risks in Central Texas. Knowing what to watch for throughout the year can help you stay prepared.
Spring (March - May)
Primary risk: Severe storms and flooding
Central Texas spring storms bring heavy rainfall, hail, and tornadoes. Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. The Brazos and Leon River basins can rise rapidly. Hail damage to roofs creates entry points for water. This is the highest-risk season for water damage in our region.
Summer (June - August)
Primary risk: Heat stress on plumbing and AC failures
Triple-digit temperatures stress plumbing systems. Water heaters and supply lines are more prone to failure in extreme heat. Air conditioning systems run constantly, and condensate drain clogs or pan overflows can cause significant water damage in attics and ceilings. Thermal expansion of pipes increases burst risk.
Fall (September - November)
Primary risk: Late-season storms and tropical moisture
Tropical systems and their remnants can bring heavy rainfall to Central Texas even far inland. Fall is also when many homeowners discover slow leaks that went unnoticed during summer. Leaves and debris can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water intrusion around foundations.
Winter (December - February)
Primary risk: Frozen and burst pipes
While Central Texas winters are generally mild, hard freezes do occur and can be devastating. The 2021 Winter Storm Uri caused billions in water damage across Texas from burst pipes. Pipes in exterior walls, crawl spaces, and unheated areas are most vulnerable. Disconnect outdoor hoses and insulate exposed pipes before the first freeze warning.
Need Help Now?
If you are dealing with water damage, flooding, or any water emergency in Central Texas, Moisture Pro is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our IICRC-certified team will be on-site within 60 minutes.