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
Ask first. “Do you want to talk about what this weather is bringing up?”
Listen, then help. Use simple support before offering solutions.
Validate. “Given what you’ve been through, it makes sense.” Avoid minimizing.
Ground in now. Confirm what’s true and the current risk from trusted sources.
Do one practical step. Shelter plan, charge phones, grab shoes and flashlight, check neighbors.
Limit alerts. Choose one source, set check-in times, and take breaks from scrolling.
Keep kids calm. Brief facts, routines, and questions welcome.
Get help if needed. If they can’t settle or can’t function, contact a pro/crisis line.
Resources
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.
Immediate crisis support: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
Brief PTSD risk screening tool for children (Meadows Institute) is available by clicking hereLucine Center for Trauma and Grief is providing free care navigation for families experiencing bereavement from the flooding. You can call at 832-244-9502, or submit documents for financial assistance by clicking here.Whatever the Weather
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