Texas weather can be beautiful one hour and wild the next. Blue skies can turn into a wall of dark clouds rolling in from nowhere, thunder cracking across the sky, and rain pounding so hard you can’t hear yourself think. If you’re RVing through the Lone Star State, knowing how to prep for those sudden storms isn’t just smart — it’s essential.
Whether you’re a full-timer parked for the season or just passing through, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to keep your rig (and your crew) safe when the weather gets rough. From setting up weather alerts to checking seals on your roof, let’s cover it all.
1. RV Safety in Texas Storms: Set Up Weather Alerts & Radar Apps
Texas thunderstorms can develop fast, and sometimes without much warning. Your best defense is to stay ahead of the storm — literally.
Set Up Weather Alerts
Before you even set out, make sure your phone is enabled to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). These government-issued notifications come through automatically for tornado warnings, flash floods, and severe thunderstorms. It’s one of the simplest, most effective ways to know what’s coming.
You can also sign up for local county alerts. Many Texas counties offer free text or email alerts for weather events, road closures, or emergency info. It takes five minutes to sign up and can make a big difference when you’re out on the road or parked in a new area.
Use Local Radar Apps
National weather apps are fine, but Texas storms often require a bit more precision. Apps like MyRadar, NOAA Weather Radar Live, or WeatherBug give you detailed, real-time radar images. You’ll see storm cells forming and track them as they move toward your location.
If you’re staying near the Mission RV Resort, for example, setting your app to follow Hidalgo County alerts will give you the most accurate updates for your exact area.
Pro tip: Don’t rely solely on campground staff or neighbors to warn you. Everyone reacts differently to storms — you want your own system in place.
2. Protect Your Electrical Systems: Surge Protectors, EMS & Generators
Lightning strikes and power surges are common during Texas storms. Even if lightning doesn’t hit your rig directly, a strike to a nearby line can fry your electrical system in a split second.
Invest in a Quality Surge Protector or EMS
A surge protector acts like a shield between your RV and the park’s electrical pedestal. It blocks dangerous voltage spikes that can damage appliances and wiring.
If you want to take it a step further, consider an Electrical Management System (EMS). Unlike basic surge protectors, EMS units monitor for multiple electrical issues — low voltage, miswired pedestals, and more. They’ll shut down power before damage occurs.
This is especially important if you’re parked long-term, such as at Mission RV Resort’s RV sites, where summer storms can roll through multiple times a week.
Check Your Generator
If the power goes out, you’ll want to know your generator can handle the job. Do a quick maintenance check before storm season:
- Top off oil and fuel levels.
- Run it for a few minutes to make sure it starts smoothly.
- Keep extra fuel stored safely in approved containers.
A generator that won’t start during a blackout isn’t much help.
3. Secure Awnings, Slides & Outdoor Gear
This is one of those steps that seems obvious — until you see someone’s awning ripped to shreds by a sudden gust. Texas storms can bring strong, unexpected winds, even before the rain hits.
Retract Awnings & Slides
As soon as you get a storm alert, pull in your awnings. Don’t wait “just a few minutes” — wind gusts can ramp up out of nowhere. The same goes for slide toppers. These lightweight covers can flap violently in the wind, sometimes tearing loose or letting water pool on top.
If the storm is expected to be particularly strong, consider pulling in your slides altogether. It’s a bit more work but reduces the surface area exposed to wind and minimizes the chance of leaks at the seals.
Stow Outdoor Gear
Secure or pack away chairs, tables, grills, mats, and decorative stuff. A flying lawn chair in 60 mph winds is basically a missile. You’d be surprised how often this is overlooked.
A quick 10-minute sweep around your site can prevent hundreds of dollars in damage.
4. Inspect Your Roof: Seals, Leaks & Preventive Care
RV roofs are one of the most vulnerable spots during a heavy downpour. Even a tiny gap in the sealant can let water seep in, leading to costly water damage that might not show up until weeks later.
Do Regular Roof Inspections
At least once a season — and ideally before storm season — climb up and give your roof a thorough look. Check:
- All seams where different materials meet
- Around vents, skylights, and AC units
- Along the edges and gutters
Look for cracks, bubbles, peeling sealant, or soft spots. These are warning signs that water can get in.
Reseal if Needed
If you find a gap, don’t just shrug it off for later. Use RV-approved sealant to patch it up right away. There are self-leveling sealants for horizontal surfaces and non-sag types for vertical seams.
Trust me, dealing with a leak during a thunderstorm is a nightmare you don’t want. I learned that the hard way one stormy night outside San Antonio… water was dripping right onto the dinette cushions.
5. Pick the Safest Parking Spot: Drainage & Shelter Awareness
Where you park your RV can make a big difference in how it weathers a storm. While you don’t always have total control, you can be strategic.
Avoid Low-Lying Areas
Flash flooding is a real risk in Texas. Avoid parking at the bottom of hills, in dry creek beds, or near ditches. Even a light rain can turn those into rushing streams.
If you’re at a park like Mission RV Resort, ask staff which sites have the best drainage during heavy rains. Long-timers often know which spots stay dry and which ones get soggy.
Be Aware of Wind Exposure
Open fields may offer a nice view, but they leave your RV exposed to crosswinds. If possible, position your rig so the narrowest side faces the prevailing wind. Or park near a natural windbreak like a line of trees or a sturdy building — but not directly under large tree limbs that could fall.
6. Build a Go-Bag for Severe Weather
Most Texas storms pass quickly, but every now and then, a bad one lingers or turns severe fast. Having a go-bag ready means you can grab essentials and take shelter quickly if needed.
Here’s a simple starter list:
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Important documents in waterproof sleeves
- Portable phone chargers
- Snacks and bottled water
- Lightweight rain gear or ponchos
- A battery-powered radio (cell service can go down)
If there’s a tornado warning or severe flooding, local officials may direct you to shelter facilities. Know where those are ahead of time, especially if you’re staying somewhere long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are severe thunderstorms in Texas?
Pretty common, especially in spring and summer, though fall can bring sudden storms too. Texas is known for quick-changing weather, so preparation matters year-round.
Can I stay inside my RV during a thunderstorm?
Usually yes, if it’s a regular thunderstorm. But if there are tornado warnings, high winds, or flooding, it’s safer to take shelter in a sturdy building.
What’s the best surge protector for Texas RVing?
Look for a 30- or 50-amp surge protector or EMS from trusted brands like Progressive Industries or Hughes Autoformers. Make sure it’s rated for lightning surges.
Should I unplug my RV during a storm?
If lightning is close or the power pedestal looks questionable, unplugging can protect your rig. Your surge protector can help, but nothing’s foolproof.
Do I need special insurance for storm damage?
Many RV insurance policies cover storm damage, but check your specific coverage. Some policies may require comprehensive coverage for wind or hail.
Final Thoughts
Texas thunderstorms can be intense, but they don’t have to catch you off guard. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your RV — and everyone inside it — safe when the skies turn dark.
From setting up your weather alerts to double-checking your roof seals, these steps can save you from costly repairs and sleepless nights listening to water drip on your floor.
If you’re staying somewhere like Mission RV Resort, take advantage of the community and local knowledge. Ask around. Texans are usually happy to share storm tips — we’ve all been through it at some point.
Stay alert, stay smart, and don’t forget: when the thunder rolls, preparation makes all the difference.