In Texas, storms don’t always end when the clouds clear. For some families, the next round of thunder, a chance of hail, or even a new flood watch can bring the fear from past events right back to the surface. And in South Texas, those reminders can feel relentless.
As meteorologists, we talk a lot about the science: rain chances, flood risk and what weather alerts mean. However, for families who lived through major flooding, like the July 4 floods in the Hill Country, those same forecasts can feel intensely personal.
“Those are what we refer to as trauma or loss reminders,” said Julie Kaplow, PhD, executive director of the Trauma and Grief (TAG) Center at the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute.
Kaplow explained that rain, storms, and flooding “can bring up the very same thoughts and feelings that we had at the time of the event.”
Clinicians sometimes describe this as weather-related post-traumatic stress: distress that resurfaces when the skies darken, or the next warning arrives.
“When you’ve gone through a traumatic experience, your brain reacts as if the danger is present again,” said Adriana McKinnon, LPC, chief program officer at the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas. “It’s normal to feel fear or anxiety, even when you’re safe.”
Experts say coping starts with recognizing what’s happening, and then taking steps to restore a sense of control. Creating a safety plan, limiting constant exposure to alerts and nonstop coverage, and leaning on a support network can make a real difference.
Adults caring for themselves matters, too, because children often absorb the stress of the people around them.
How to talk to someone with disaster anxiety
If fear or anxiety starts interfering with sleep, school, work, or daily life, or if storm season brings frequent panic, flashbacks, or avoidance, it’s important to reach out.
“It’s normal to feel anxious and to feel afraid of the weather,” McKinnon said. Healing can take time, and support can help you feel safe again.
Resources
For anyone struggling with anxiety related to storms, several resources are available. Consider reaching out to local mental health organizations or counseling centers for support.
