Houston, TX 77001
Environmental Risk Assessment • Population: 2,320,268
Risk Factor Breakdown
Air Quality
Air quality is acceptable, but some pollutants may be of concern for sensitive individuals.
Water Quality
Flood Risk
This area faces significant flood risk. Flood insurance is strongly recommended. Have an evacuation plan ready.
Toxic Sites
Very few hazardous waste sites in this area. This is a positive indicator for local environmental health.
Environmental Profile: Houston, Texas
Houston, Texas has moderate air quality with an AQI of 82. Water quality scores 39/100 with 528 health-based violations recorded. The area has 0 toxic release inventory sites. Flood risk is very high based on FEMA disaster history.
What This Means For You
Houston has received an overall environmental risk score of 62/100 (Poor). This means that the area has significant environmental challenges that can affect residents' health and quality of life.
The air quality in Houston is rated Moderate with an AQI of 82, primarily driven by Ozone pollution. Water quality scores 39 out of 100, with 528 reported violations and detected contaminants including Arsenic, Lead, Nitrate.
Flood risk is classified as Very High (AE - Coastal High-Risk Flood Zone), and there are 0 Superfund sites and 0 Toxics Release Inventory facilities in the area.
How to Protect Yourself in Houston
- ✓Monitor air quality daily via AirNow.gov. AQI levels in Houston frequently reach unhealthy ranges.
- ✓Use a HEPA air purifier indoors, especially during high-pollution days.
- ✓Limit strenuous outdoor exercise when AQI exceeds 100.
- ✓Consider installing of a certified water filter. Houston water has had 528 violations.
- ✓Have your tap water independently tested, especially for lead if your home has older plumbing.
- ✓Read the annual Consumer Confidence Report from your water utility.
- ✓Purchase flood insurance even if not required — standard homeowner insurance does not cover floods.
- ✓Create an emergency evacuation plan with designated meeting points and essential documents in a go-bag.
- ✓Check your specific property flood zone at msc.fema.gov — Houston is in AE - Coastal High-Risk Flood Zone.
- ✓Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking to flush potential lead from pipes.
- ✓Get children tested for lead exposure — there is no safe level of lead in blood.
Other Cities in Texas
Disclaimer: Environmental risk data is compiled from public U.S. government sources (EPA, FEMA) for informational purposes only. Risk scores are estimates and should not replace professional environmental assessments, real estate evaluations, or health consultations. Always consult local authorities and certified professionals for site-specific evaluations. For environmental emergencies, call 911 or the EPA National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802. See our Terms of Service for more details.