Natural Disaster Risk in Roma

Natural Hazard Profile: Roma, Texas

Roma, in Starr County, is a city of approximately 18,464 residents situated along the Gulf Coast. Its diverse climate brings an exceptionally varied climate from humid subtropical in the east to desert in the west, and in particular overlapping tornado, hurricane, flood, and drought seasons. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Roma residents and property owners must navigate.

Roma's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.8/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Cold wave events are the primary hazard risk, driven by periodic invasions of Arctic air that drive wind chills to life-threatening levels and stress heating systems. Secondary hazards include wildfire and hurricane.

Within Texas, Roma's risk is, near the 5.6/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Starr County identifies cold wave as the foremost hazard, followed by wildfire and hurricane. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Roma residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for cold wave is recommended.