Point Of Contact
For information regarding this plan, please contact the Laredo Fire Department Office of
Emergency Management:
Staff Contact: Fire Chief Steve Landin, Emergency Management Coordinator
Fire Driver Eloy Vega, Project Officer
Mailing Address: Laredo Fire Department
# 1 Guadalupe
Laredo, TX 78040
Phone: (956)795-2150
Fax: (956)795-2914
Email: slandin@ci.laredo.tx.us
evega@ci.laredo.tx.us
Website: readylaredo.com
1
Acknowledgements
The Laredo Fire Department would like to recognize the efforts of the many individuals
and organizations that made this plan a reality. We wish to extend our gratitude to the
following individuals and their support staff.
Elected Officials
Honorable Raul G. Salinas, Mayor
Mike Garza, Councilman District I
Hector “Tito” Garcia, Councilman District II
Dr. Michael Landeck, Councilman District III
Juan Narvaez, Councilman District IV
Johnny Rendon, Councilman District V
Gene Belmares, Councilman District VI
Jose Valdez, Jr., Councilman District VII
Cynthia Liendo, Councilman District VIII
City Departments and Directors
Airport - Jose Flores
Bridge – Mario Maldonado
Budget – Martin Aleman
Building – Erasmo Villarreal
City Attorney – Raul Casso
City Manager – Carlos Villarreal
Deputy City Manager – Cynthia Collazo
Assistant City Manager – Jesus Olivares
Assistant City Manager – Horacio De Leon
City Secretary – Gustavo Guevara
Engineering – Rogelio Rivera
Environmental Engineering – Riazul “Ria” Mia
Financial Services – Rosario C. Cabello
Fire – Steve e. Landin
Health – Dr. Hector Gonzalez
MIS – Sandra Aleman
Parks and Recreation – Miguel Pescador
Planning – Keith Selman
Police – Carlos Maldonado
PAC – Gerardo “Jerry” Leal
Public Works – John Orfila, Jr.
Purchasing – Francisco Meza
Risk Management – Gilbert Sanchez
Solid Waste – Oscar Medina
Traffic – Roberto Murillo
2
Transit – Feliciano Garcia, Jr.
Utilities – Tomas Rodriguez
Library – Joe Moreno
Education
United Independent School District – Robert J. Santos
Laredo Independent School District – Veronica Guerra
Laredo Community College – Dr. Juan Maldonado
Texas A & M International – Dr. Ray Keck
Community Organizations
American Red Cross – Ms. Connie Cavazos
Funding Acknowledgement and Technical Assistance
FEMA
Governor’s Division of Emergency Management – Greg Peckar
Mildred Reno
John Gaete
3
City of Laredo
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan
And
Hazard Analysis
Table of Contents
Preceding Documents
i. Point of Contact
ii. Acknowledgements
iii. Table of Contents
Section I: Introduction
Executive Summary……………… 6
Mission and Vision…………………………… 7
Goals and Objectives…………………………. 7
Section II: City Profile
Geography………….. 8
Climate…………… 8
Population and Demographics………… 8
Geopolitical Jurisdictions……………… 10
Economy……………………. 10
Tourism……………… 11
Transportation……………. 11
Emergency Services…………….. 14
Education…………………….. 15
Land Use Development and Growth…………… 16
Policies Regulations and Ordinances…… 17
Section III: Plan Development
Planning Process…………………….. 18
Plan Adoption……………………….. 25
Public Involvement…………………. 25
Documentation…………………….. 27
Cost Benefit Analysis…………….. 27
Plan Administration and Maintenance….. 28
4
Section IV: Community Hazard Analysis
High Winds……………….. 34
Extreme Weather…………. 36
Floods…………………….. 38
Drought…………………… 43
Fire Hazard………………… 46
Hazardous Materials……… 48
Tornado……………… 51
Section VI: Vulnerability Assessment and Risk Analysis
Critical Facilities……………………….. 57
Estimating Potential Losses…………. 63
Section VII: City of Laredo Mitigation Strategy
City of Laredo Mitigation Strategy…………. 64
Section VIII: Annexes
Annex I: Emergency Management Plan (EMP) Summary………………
Annex II: EMP Hazard Mitigation Annex………
Annex III: Hazardous Cargo Community Risk Assessment
and Transportation Route Analysis ……………………
Annex IV: Storm Water Management Guide ……….
Annex V: City Water Conservation Plan and Ordinance………….
Annex VI: Land Development Code ……….
Annex VII: Public Involvement………..
Annex VIII: FEMA Flood Maps…………
Annex IX: Riverine Flood Maps……………..
Annex X: COL Pipeline Map …………
Annex XI: Local Hazard Analysis Maps ……
5
Section I
Introduction
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan Grant
Executive Summary
The proposed Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Plan is a requirement of the Disaster
Mitigation Act of 2000. The purpose of the (PDM) is to establish a policy and blueprint
to institutionalize existing and new programs, processes and procedures to continuously
reduce disaster losses and sustain this effort in future years. It is only a question of time
before another severe or significant weather event impacts the City of Laredo. The City
has not endured a major disaster for several decades and while storms and other weather
anomalies will continue to occur on a periodic basis, a large event could occur and the
consequences of not being prepared are severe. The risk is great enough that within the
City a large flood or wildfire, if it occurred today, can result in a significant loss of
property and life and jeopardize the economic foundation of the city. Historical evidence
is a compelling argument that future natural disasters and or emergencies will occur in
our community.
For this reason, the City is taking a proactive approach to these possibilities. Our City
leadership has decided to address these issues in a way that will reduce the risk to our
community in the event of a natural disaster or severe weather. City Ordinance 2006-O-
116, passed on 06/05/09, authorized the creation of the plan and implementation of
efforts to make it a reality. The development of this plan will assist in identifying and
analyzing the various hazards that we are at risk for and organize the different strategies
that will help in reducing the negative impact to the community.
6
Mission and Vision
Mission
“Reduce the impact of natural, technological and human-caused
disaster within the City of Laredo.”
Vision
“Our vision is to create an environment in our City where disasters
have minimal impact on people, infrastructure and ecosystem.”
Goals and Objectives
1) Protect Life
2) Stabilize incidents through proper planning
3) Protect Property
4) Increase awareness through public education
5) Create and nurture strategic partnerships
6) Protect and conserve natural resources
How the plan is organized
The plan is divided into eight comprehensive sections with respective subsections
that discuss, among other issues, the plan outline vulnerability and risk analysis as
well as details regarding the various mitigation strategies.
7
Section II
City Profile
Geography
Laredo, Texas, is located on the north bank of the historical Rio Grande River (or Rio
Bravo, as it is known in Mexico). It is unique because it is the only city to operate
international bridges between two Mexican states. The city presently maintains two
border crossings with the Mexican State of Tamaulipas at Nuevo Laredo, and one with
the Mexican State of Nuevo León at Colombia. A fourth bridge is currently being
planned along the Tamualipas border. Laredo is the U.S. principal port of entry into
Mexico, located on the Pan American Highway that stretches from Canada into Central
and South America. The City of Laredo is the largest city in the County of Webb. Webb
County also borders the State of Nuevo Leon and the State of Coahuila, Mexico which is
northwest of the City of Laredo.
+++City of Laredo: 53,403 acres or 83.44 sq. mi.
County of Webb: 2,148,480 acres or 3,357 sq. mi.
Topography: Relatively flat with rolling hills.
Average Elevation: 438 feet
Climate
Spring temperatures for the City of Laredo average at 89ºF maximum and 54ºF
minimum; Summer temperatures average at 98ºF maximum and 73ºF minimum; Fall
temperatures average at 95ºF maximum and 70ºF minimum; Winter temperatures average
71ºF maximum and 46ºF minimum. On average, there are 179 days out of the year that
exceed 90ºF weather and 14 days that fall below 32ºF. The average annual precipitation
is 19 inches, and the annual average humidity is 62%.
Source: Laredo Development Foundation; noaa.gov
Population and Demographics
In 2000, the Census Bureau report: in Metropolitan Statistical Area MSA terms (City plus
surrounding area) Laredo’s MSA is the second fastest growing in Texas and the one of
the fastest growing in the U.S.
During the 10 years since 1990, Laredo’s MSA population grew by 50.0% to reach
200,000 in 2000. The January 2006 MSA population stands at about 231,000 people.
With over 500,000 people living just across the river in Nuevo Laredo, the “Los Dos
Laredos” area has a combined population of over 731,000.
8
Laredo, TX, population 208,754, is located in Texas's Webb County.
A. LAREDO-WEBB MSA TRENDS:
1970 72859
1980 99258 (+36.2%)
1990 133239 (+34.2%)
2000 193117 (+45.0%)
2006 231470 (+19.8%)
City of Laredo Population trends.
B. ETHNIC GROUPS:
Hispanic 94.9%
Non-Hispanic 5.1%
Under 18 36.2%
18-24 11.4%
25-44 29.3%
45-64 15.6%
65 - over 7.6%
Median Age 26.5%
Source: Fedstats.com; city-data.com
9
Geopolitical Jurisdictions
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT
City of Laredo is administered by a City Manager form with the City Council consisting
of a mayor elected at large and eight (8) Council members presenting districts.
Webb County is administered by the Webb County Commissioner’s Court consisting of a
County Judge and four (4) Commissioners representing districts.
A. LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Planning Commission: Yes
City Master Plan: Yes
Zoning: Yes
D. OTHER CITY GOVERNMENT
Airport, Bridge System, Community Development, Health Department, Parks &
Recreation, Public Works, Traffic, Transit System, Cable Commission, Planning,
Building, Utilities (Sewer & Water), Engineering, Environmental, Convention and
Visitors Bureau.
* Source: Laredo Development Foundation
Economy
At the center of the primary trade route connecting Canada, the United States and
Mexico, and at the gateway to Mexico’s burgeoning industrial complex, Laredo offers
markets, business opportunities and profit potential which business and industry simply
cannot find anywhere else.
Laredo began its remarkable economic ascent in 1987, and it continues unabated. The
growth of Mexico’s maquiladora (twin-plant) program, entry into GATT, economic
reforms, and then NAFTA, combined to spur the growth of Laredo’s transportation
industry and overall economy.
During the late 1990s, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that Laredo’s MSA was the
fastest growing in Texas and the second fastest growing in the U.S. The January, 2005
10
MSA population is at about 225,000 people. With over 500,000 people living just across
the river in Nuevo Laredo, the Los Laredos area has a combined population of 725,000.
Fortunately, Laredo’s economy has more than kept pace with population growth.
According to the Milken Institute, Laredo in 2003 was ranked the seven fastest growing
economy in the U.S. While the population increased about 60% over the last 12 years,
employment increased by 80%.
*Source: Laredo Development Foundation
Tourism
Situated on the US/Mexico Border, our city is host to tourists from both countries. Laredo
is a popular shopping center for Mexican tourists as well as tourists that visit from the
North who seek rustic goods and furniture.
On any given weekend, our bridges and streets swell with visitors from out-of-town who
seek deals and our local retail centers or at one of the many curious shops that pepper,
San Bernardo, the main drag for Mexican crafts and furniture.
Transportation
The City of Laredo is the nation’s largest in-land port that processes land, air and rail
cargo on a large scale. Data compiled from the U.S. Department of Commerce indicates
that in 2004, the total share of U.S.-Mexico trade passing through the port of Laredo was
58.9%. All other ports on the U.S.-Mexico Border totaled only 41.1%.
This commercial traffic has only increased over the past decade as more commerce is
utilizing the Port of Laredo’s strategic location. The significant increase has offered many
opportunities for the potential of a major hazardous material incident that would affect
the lives of many families on both sides of the border as well as those that reside in the
surrounding communities.
IH-35 serves as the major highway with 58.9% of US-Mexico trade passing through our
port of entry. We are 12 miles northwest of Rio Bravo, TX and 20 miles west of Oilton,
TX.
In 2005, the Port of Laredo handled 2,014,275 plus cross border loaded truck shipments,
407,968 rail car shipments and 378.5 million pounds of air freight. Currently, there are
830 trade-handling, transportation-related businesses in Laredo, Texas. Including cars,
over 15.8 million vehicles crossed the Rio Grande at Laredo in 2005.
A. AIR
Laredo International Airport (956) 795-2000 - Located on 1,800 acres of a former U.S.
Air Force Base. The airport has two parallel runways of 8,200 feet and 7,800 feet, and a
cross-wind runway of 5,900 feet. The longest runway was entirely reconstructed in 1997
to handle the heaviest aircraft now flying. An extension of the runway to 10,000 feet is
planned for 2001.
11
The runways are equiped with ILS, LOC BC, VOR DME and NDB/GPS approaches, and
the airport has a control tower in operation 18 hours/weekday and 14 hours/Sat. and Sun.
General aviation is served by two fixed base operators. Commercial aviation is served by
a new 78,000 square feet state of the art passenger terminal with jet boarding bridges and
federal inspection facilities. Laredo International is served by American Eagle to
Dallas/Fort Worth and by Continental Express to Houston George Bush Intercontinental.
Azteca & Aeromar Airlines offer daily flights to Mexico City. Private fixed wing and
helicopter service is available.
The airport has dedicated air freight facilities in excess of 200,000 square feet. Air cargo
operators at Laredo total 20 and include: Emery Worldwide, BAX Global, FedEx,
Airborne, DHL, USA Jet, M & M Cargo, Cavazos Air Cargo, and Eagle USA. During
2000 Laredo International logged 459 million pounds of gross landed weight. In 1993,
Laredo International was ranked 8th in the nation by Air Cargo World for Latin America
air cargo.
The airport has an active Foreign Trade Zone program. Non-aeronautical airport
properties are being developed into a world class medical campus. Anchoring this 150
acre medical campus is the new Mercy Regional Medical Center, Laredo MHMR, and
the University of Texas Health Science Center.
B. WATER
Deep Water Port: Corpus Christi - 6th largest deep-water port in the U.S. & 3rd largest
bulk-handling port in the U.S.
Channel Depth: 45 ft. Width: 400 ft.
Directly connected to Laredo by the Texas - Mexican Railroad Hwy.
Distance from Laredo: 156 miles
Deep Water Port: Houston - 2nd in the U.S. in foreign tonnage, 2nd in total tonnage and
is one of the world’s 10 busiest ports.
Channel Depth: mean low tide of 40 ft.
Width: 400 ft.
Directly connected to Laredo by the Texas - Mexican Railroad Hwy.
Distance from Laredo: 301 miles
C. HIGHWAYS
12
I.H. 35 - To San Antonio, Dallas & north to the Canadian Border. (Pan American
Highway)
Hwy 59 - To Houston, New Orleans & east. (Future I-69 Corridor)
Hwy 359 - To Corpus Christi
Hwy 83 - To Brownsville (east) & El Paso (west) (Proposed port-to-plain corridor)
D. MOTOR FREIGHT
Industrial activity in the Laredo area is served from all points by virtually every motor
freight carrier in the U. S. providing interstate services. In addition, Laredo is the only
border city serviced by ICC licensed cross border "drayage" carriers that provide
international service between Laredo, Texas and Nuevo Laredo, Tamps. Laredo has 515
freight forwarders, 210 trucking companies and 105 licensed U.S. Customs Brokers.
E. RAIL
Laredo is serviced by Union Pacific Railroad and Kansas City Southern.
Union Pacific Railroad, the largest railroad in North America. Union Pacific covers 23
states across two thirds of the United States and has rail lines serving many major cities
including Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, Seattle, Portland, Los
Angeles, and Houston. UP also has a direct connection to all areas of Mexico and
Canada. Laredo is Union Pacific's #1 Rail Interchange Gateway on the U.S./Mexico
Border.
Union Pacific Railroad Fast Facts:
Route Miles - 32,300
Employees - 50,000
Annual Payroll - $3.7 billion
Purchases Made - $6.9 billion
Locomotives - 8,500
Freight Cars - 104,700
KCSR (Kansas City Southern Railroad) interchanges with the BNSF (Burlington Nothern
Santa Fe) and UPRR and other U.S. Railroads and owns the KCSM that interchanges at
Brownsville and Laredo, Texas.
F. BUS SERVICE
Americanos USA, Autobuses Latino de Greyhound, El Conejo Bus Lines, El Metro
(Laredo Municipal Transit System), Greyhound, Ybarra Brothers, El Aguila (County
Transit System), El Expresso Bus Company, and Giros El Paisano
G. PARCEL SERVICE
Overnight Terminal
13
Federal Express Yes Yes
DHL Worldwide Yes Yes
Profit Freight Systems Yes Yes
Airborne Express Yes Yes
UPS Yes Yes
Lonestar Yes Yes
H. TRADE HANDLING SERVICES
The following Associations can be reached through the Laredo Development Foundation:
Laredo Customs Brokers Association
(LBA)- Laredo’s customhouse brokers are the most experienced on the U.S./Mexico
border. Many of the current brokers are operating family-owned companies established in
the late 1850's.
Logistics & Manufacturing Association Port Laredo
(LMA) - is an organization established to represent and promote long-term industrial and
allied service interest to Los Dos Laredos.
Laredo Transportation Association
(LTA) - Consists of trucking companies, freight forwarders, railroads, and air freight
companies.
*Source: Laredo Development Foundation
Emergency Services
B. POLICE DEPARTMENT
Sworn Personnel: 399
Non-sworn Personnel: 79
Marked vehicles: 261
Substations:16
Chief Carlos Maldonado (956-795-2899)
C. FIRE DEPARTMENT
Personnel-Full time: 352
Pieces of Equipment: 69
Fire Suppression Rating Schedule: Class 4
Service is Provided Outside City Limits
14 Stations & Regional Fire Training facility
Fire Chief Steve E. Landin - (956) 795-2150
14
Education
The Laredo community is made up of two districts, Laredo Independent School District
and United Independent School District. The goal of each school district is to work
together with the students, parents, teachers, and administrators, in the quest of having
excellence in education. Learning is the key to a bright and successful future. By setting
high standards, the districts play a crucial role in preparing the students to meet the
challenges and demands of today's high-tech, multi-cultural work place.
A. ENROLLMENT
Total Enrollment: 60219
# of H.S. graduates: 2600 per year
*Includes both School Districts
Major I. S. D.
LISD Inside City Limits
UISD Inside & Outside City Limits
B. SUMMARY OF EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
UISD LISD Parochial/Private
Elementary schools 26 20 29
Middle schools 8 4 5
High schools 4 3 4
Magnet Schools:
LISD - Vidal M. Trevino School of Communications & Fine Arts for visual and
performing arts which includes the district’s alternative schools: Martin, Nixon, Cigarroa,
Francisco Lara Middle and High School Academy.
UISD - Business Magnet, Health Professions Magnet School and Engineering Magnet
School for outstanding students.
15
C. ADULT EDUCATION
G.E.D. (Level 4), Laredo Community College, conducts customized training courses as
requested by businesses and industries.
D. PUBLIC SCHOOL VOCATIONAL
LISD- DECA, FHA, FFA, VOE, HOSA
UISD- DECA, FHA, FFA, VOE, HOSA
E. OTHER VOCATIONAL TRAINING
American Driving School Inc., Laredo Beauty College, Laredo Driver Training School
Inc., and TCR Computer Training Center.
F. SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center, Laredo State Center, LISD Vidal Trevino Magnet
School for Communications and Fine Arts and UISD Business Magnet School & Health
Professions Magnet School.
G. HIGHER EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES (City, County, State)
Name Miles A.A. B.S. M.S. Ph.D.
Laredo Community College 0 Yes No No No
Texas A & M International University 0 No Yes Yes Yes
Texas A & M University - Kingsville 120 No Yes Yes Yes
University of Texas at San Antonio 150 No Yes Yes Yes
Southwest Texas State - San Marcos 200 No Yes No No
University of Texas at Austin 230 No Yes Yes Yes
Texas A & M University - College Station 345 No Yes Yes Yes
* Source: Laredo Development Foundation
Land Use Development and Growth
The City of Laredo Development Code has been included in the plan because it discuses
flood plan management and fire hazard districts. It may be referenced in Annex H of this
document.
16
City of Laredo Code of Ordinances
A series of ordinances have been drafted in the past that address hazard management,
planning, and mitigation. These may be referenced with the City Secretary’s Office or the
Fire Department’s Office of Emergency Management.
17
Section III
Plan Development
Planning Process
Background
The City of Laredo, its fire department and the emergency management team have been
leaders in response planning since the late 1800’s. This is when it was recognized by
local government that a dedicated fire department was developed and the concept of
public safety was formally introduced. In an extension of local planning efforts
underway, we encouraged local partners to take advantage of common background
elements required in the Hazard Mitigation Act of 2000.
In 2005 the City of Laredo Fire Department applied for a planning grant available
through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the state of Texas
Governor’s Division of Emergency Management (GDEM). The grant was awarded in late
2006 and in 2007.
Scope of Work
Organize the planning team: The team was organized into a four member planning team.
Each member of the planning team played a vital role in the creation of the Plan. Fire
Chief Steve E. Landin, as the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator, provided
guidance and the necessary management support. Eloy Vega was the project coordinator
who organized the different elements and provided planning guidance for the different
stakeholders as well organizing and writing the different elements of the plan. Belinda
Sanchez assisted in a clerical/administrative capacity and was vital in ensuring that the
work was recorded accordingly. The City recognizes that coordination among the various
agencies is crucial to the success of this task. The team managed the operations of the
planning process during the life of the project. Invitations were made to various
organizations and agencies to organizational meetings and minutes were taken to
document our progress. The primary stakeholders that participated in the project were the
departments within the City of Laredo’s governmental structure as listed in Section II,
Agency Participation. Every department was given an opportunity to contribute to the
plan. Such was the case with the Environmental, Utilities, Public Library, Health,
Building, Planning, Fire and Police Departments. Mr. Riazul Mia from the
Environmental Department provided input and guidance relating to the City’s Storm
Water Management Guide as well as drainage mitigation ideas. Mr. Tomas Rodriguez
from the Utilities Department provided his department’s mitigation strategy as well as
18
input regarding drainage issues and local flooding and its impact on the community. The
Public Library provided valuable information in the form of historical records with the
assistance of Mr. Jose Moreno. Along with members of the planning team, a history of
the many natural events our city has faced was pieced together. Dr. Hector Gonzalez
from the Health Department provided an in depth perspective of the various health issues
and how the city is prepared to respond. Mr. Erasmo Villarreal assisted with providing a
wide variety of local maps in different formats so as to achieve a better understanding of
the topography and how it impacts our community during a natural disaster. Mr. Adrian
Gause and Mr. Arturo Botello also from the Building Department provided HAZUS
information as well as localized flooding maps. The Fire Department provided
information for the Hazard Analysis based on department archives, pre-incident planning
data and historical information. The City’s Risk Manager provided different mitigation
ideas as well as his department’s mitigation strategy plan.
Also, other agencies such as the Chamber of Commerce, Neighborhood Associations,
Local Media, American Red Cross, Lions Club, Rotary Club, Salvation Army, Political
groups and other interested parties were invited. The input provided by these groups
proved to very useful to the plan. For instance, at a town hall type meeting held on July
21, 2007, hosted by the Councilman from District V and attended by a FEMA Public
Assistance Team following the flood events in June and July of 2007, many issues were
voiced by residents regarding the recurring flooding in their neighborhood and how it
impacts their lives. At another meeting with the local Rotary club held on January 15,
2008, attendees their expressed an interest in how the City mitigates and responds to
Hazardous Materials events suggested ways on how to activate mass notification in the
event of an emergency.
An opportunity was presented to discuss the Plan with members of the local academia.
An opportunity for involvement was given at Texas A & M International University
(TAMIU) to a public forum attended by several professors, hosted by Dr. John Kilburn
that was also transmitted to various students around the world via webinar. Another
opportunity for involvement to local academia was given at a regular meeting of the
Socratic Society in which the Plan was presented and discussed in detail and was
attended by professors from TAMIU, Universidad de Nuevo Leon and the Laredo
Community College. Comments offered at both forums included praise for the proactive
approach that city officials are taking to mitigate hazards and protect the community.
We integrated existing plans, such as the Storm Water management Guide, City Water
Conservation Plan, and Land development Code among others included in this Plan’s
Annex, in order to maximize our results and avoid doubling of efforts. These plans were
identified by networking with City departments (For example the Building, Planning,
Environmental and Fire Department) and sharing our information. There was active
discussion with different department representatives that resulted in identifying the
various steps the City has taken to be proactive in the mitigation process. Another process
by which existing plans were identified was to conduct research of archives at the City
Secretary’s Office and Public Library and query them for its pertinence to hazard
mitigation planning.
19
Incorporation of future plans into this one may be considered during quarterly Mitigation
Plan Review meetings. Once a consensus has been reached, the Plan Administrator can
make the decision to include this in the yearly update.
To obtain feedback for future planning document incorporation, public meetings and
meetings with other departments were held. Flow charts were created to manage the
project. Public input was also of vital importance; therefore, we worked proactively to
obtain it during this process. This was achieved by participation in public forums where
we discussed the potential hazards and how to best mitigate these. In addition to these
efforts, we coordinated our efforts with the appropriate State authorities to assure
compliance with the guidelines.
Risk Assessment. This phase of the plan began by identifying any potential hazard that
may affect our community, either natural or manmade. Historical records were
researched and interviews with various components of the community were conducted.
Once this was addressed, a comprehensive profile was made which contained any
pertinent data on how it could affect our community and how we can best mitigate these
hazards. Detailed assessments were conducted in an attempt to determine our
vulnerabilities. By doing this, we exposed the weakness in our community that need to be
addressed.
Develop the Mitigation Plan: This plan was documented throughout the process. At the
same time, it was written to ensure that it is a readable document. Risk assessments were
conducted and profiled to identify the potential hazards. Commitment to creating the plan
given by all parties involved in order for it to achieve success. An inventory of the
resources was assessed and utilized to maximize our capability of undertaking this task.
A strategy for identification and analysis of the mitigation measures was developed to
prioritize and complete the project in a reasonable amount of time. Once these tasks were
completed, the plan was be submitted to the Governor’ Division of Emergency
Management Mitigation Section for review and approval. Afterwards, the plan will be
submitted to City Council for adoption. We plan on completing this endeavor within the
12 months time schedule proposed by the project team. The target date for submission of
the plan was August of 2008.
Implementation and Monitoring of the plan: When completed, the plan will be sent to the
State for review and approval and then to the Laredo City Council for review and
adoption. After final review and revision, implementation of the mitigation measures will
follow. Implementation of the plan will be immediate and we will monitor the progress
and ensure that it is being implemented as required by FEMA. We will also establish
timelines and resource cost for each project. The City of Laredo ensures that this plan,
when completed, will meet or exceed the Interim Final Rule on Mitigation Planning (44
CFR Part 201.6).
20
City of Laredo Department Participation
Many departments contributed existing information and plans regarding mitigation and
others offered fresh ideas and were instrumental in creating the plan. Departments such as
the Fire, Building, Planning, and Environmental department contributed to the plan.
Examples of these contributions can be seen in the Annexes of this document. The
information was consolidated and implemented into this document. Listed below are the
participating agencies along with the mission statements that reflect their commitment to
quality service to the Community. A brief description of their participation is also
included.
Building
Mission Statement: To work in conjunction with the building community to ensure all
construction is done according to adopted building codes for the safety of all citizens
Building Department staff was very helpful in providing maps, census information, and
GIS data.
City Attorney’s Office
The staff provided input regarding legal questions that the planning team had.
Finance
Finance staff assisted the team with grant finance management and assisted with
reimbursement.
City Manager
Mission Statement: To serve through responsible administration and promote high
standards of ethics, professionalism and integrity.
The City Manager’s Office contributed guidance and support of the project.
City Secretary
Mission Statement: To engross and enroll all laws, ordinances and resolutions approved
by the City Council; provide administrative services support to the City Council;
administer City elections; provide records retention and destruction advisory services to
all City departments.
21
The City Secretary’s staff was essential in researching City archives for historical data
that was used for the plan.
Community Development
Mission Statement: To provide for a better quality of life for the citizens of the City of
Laredo, particularly persons of low and moderate income by creating housing and
economic development opportunities, facilitating public improvements, and promoting a
clean, healthy, and safe environment
The staff from the Community Development Department assisted the planning team
when the community input meetings were held.
Engineering
Mission Statement: To Oversee all City-Related Capital Improvement Projects; Working
Closely with Departments, Local State, and Federal Agencies. The Department Provides
Quality Control and Inspect of Sites; Expedites Project Completion; Oversees Related
Expenditures; and Works to Enhance Water, Air, and Environmental Protection Quality
through Special, Federally Funded Programs.
The city Engineers were essential in providing answers to technical questions regarding
City infrastructure and offering input with regards to hazards that may impact our
community.
Environmental
This department assisted with input to plan as well as contributing mitigation action items
and Mitigation strategies.
Fire
Mission Statement: To mitigate hazardous materials incidents through prevention and
control, thus, preventing or reducing loss of life and property damage.
The Fire Department staff spearheaded the planning efforts and was tasked with
coordinating the efforts as well as writing the plan.
Health
Mission Statement: As a leader in public health, the City of Laredo Health Department is
committed to providing culturally competent quality services, preventive medicine,
wellness, surveillance, emergency preparedness, and a healthy and safe environment for
the residents of Laredo/Webb County and surrounding areas.
Contributions included insight into the potential public health issues that may occur
during a natural or manmade disaster as well suggested different public awareness
campaigns that may be implemented to inform our communities of various health
hazards.
22
Mayor and City council
Our elected officials provided a tremendous amount of support for the planning efforts
and took the necessary council action to allow for the planning efforts.
Planning and Zoning
Mission Statement: To Work with the Community to Provide for the Orderly Physical
Development of the City to fulfill all Transportation Requirements in Conformance with
Federal, State, and Local Laws; to Enforce Adopted Land Use and Zoning Regulations
and to Facilitate and Assist the Development community to comply with the Building
Standards.
The staff at P&Z was instrumental in assisting with information pertaining to the flood
related aspects mentioned in our plan. In addition, they provided guidance regarding the
City’s compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Police
Mission Statement: To enhance the quality of life in Laredo by establishing a partnership
with the community in an effort to preserve life, protect property and enforce the law.
This department was essential to providing ideas for the various mitigation strategies
listed in the plan.
Public Access Channel
This department is essential in assisting with the production and broadcasting of public
services announcements relating to public safety.
Public Works
Mission Statement: To maintain, construct, and improve streets, public buildings, city
vehicles, and equipment, also to ensure prompt of run-off by maintaining the storm water
infrastructure and creeks; to remove and dispose of solid waste in an environmentally
sound manner.
This department was essential to providing ideas for the various mitigation strategies
listed in the plan. For example, the Tree Management Program that reduces the amount of
damage from fallen limbs in the event of high winds and the barricade deployment and
sand bag distribution program that are preventive measures during a flood event.
Traffic
Mission Statement: To provide for safe and efficient movement of traffic on all City
streets, adequately illuminate intersections and major roadways; enforce parking
regulations in the central business district.
23
This department was essential to providing ideas for the various mitigation strategies
listed in the plan. For example the implementation of more automated low water crossing
signs during a flood event and public awareness campaign that advocates traffic safety.
Utilities
Mission Statement: To provide the community with safe drinking water, on demand, and
in sufficient quantity, and to remove and dispose of wastewater and its by-products in an
environmentally sound manner.
This department was essential to providing ideas for the various mitigation strategies
listed in the plan. An example of this is the installation of surveillance cameras at utilities
facilities and improving methods of communication during an emergency.
Planning Deadlines
Initial planning timelines were largely established based on the planning grant received
from (GDEM). As the assignments were issued to the planning team, a timeframe was
given for the assignments to be turned in. The Plan was submitted to GDEM for review
and approval prior to submittal to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The State reviewed the Plan and returned to the panning team for corrections and
clarification then re-submitted for further review by GDEM.
Planning Process
The process used to prepare the plan involved various stages and work sessions with the
planning team and work groups. The planning team consisted of two components, the
steering component and the administrative component. The steering component included
Fire Chief and Emergency Management Coordinator Steve Landin and Plan Coordinator
Eloy Vega. This component acted as a guiding body for the direction of the plan and
work group activities. The administrative component consisted of Administrative
Assistant Belinda Sanchez and Firefighter Ricardo Briseno who carried out the
administrative and operational function of the plan. The planning team met regularly to
review work progress, analyze data, perform administrative and accountability functions,
as well as review public participation efforts.
Also, a work group worked alongside the planning team. The work group consisted of
representation from each individual department working directly with the planning team.
The planning team initially met with all workgroups during a regularly scheduled staff
meeting to present the idea and concept, the timelines and the expectations. Thereafter,
the means of communication with each individual workgroup were in person, via
24
telephone or electronically. This forum provided an opportunity to brief everyone on the
plan status, distribute and receive documents, share information and provide for agency
comments and feedback. The planning team acted as a clearing house for the work group
information and feedback and thus constructed the plan.
The planning process was also divided into four phases: Organizing resources, assessing
risks, developing the mitigation plan, and implementing the plan as well monitoring its
progress.
Work Plan
The work plan was organized in a manner that could be manageable by the team and so
as to not place too much of a workload on the already busy workgroups. This was
accomplished by creating steps that would lead us to our goal of creating the plan. Some
steps took longer than others to finish because of the varying levels of complexity.
Step 1: Commit to creating the Plan via a City Council Motion
Step 2: Present Plan concept to work groups
Step 3: Schedule and deliver public presentation
Step 4: Gather information on history of events, losses and repetitive losses
Step 5: Probability of events and estimate of catastrophic losses
Step 6: Collect Department Profiles
Step 7: Collect Department Mitigation Strategies and Initiatives
Step 8: Research and review existing city mitigation ordinances, policies and regulations
Step 9: Submit plan for review and make necessary corrections
Step 10: Distribute final draft and adopt
Plan Adoption
Intention to Adopt
The city will adopt the PDM Plan after being qualified by the Governor’s Division of
Emergency Management Mitigation Section and approval from FEMA.
Public Involvement & Pre Draft Review
The project team attempted to involve the public at various phases throughout the
process. It is important for the public to be involved in the mitigation process in order to
become aware of the process itself as well the specific mitigation actions the City is
conducting. Documentation of this can be found in Annex VII of the Plan.
The method used for engaging the public was first; we scheduled public participation
activities in conjunction with other departments to conduct presentations, and second;
prepare and deliver the appropriate presentation for the respective audiences. Two of the
25
meetings were held on April 08, and April 09, 2008. The meeting minutes and sign-in
sheets can be located in Annex VII of the plan.
These reviews, public involvement, and research occurred during the drafting stage of our
mitigation planning process.
Local Media: To create an awareness campaign, press releases were successfully sent out
to local media outlets. The public was informed via print and television and was
encouraged to provide input.
The plan was presented to the public with the assistance of the local media via interviews.
Interviews to notify the public of the plan were conducted with LareDos article May
2008, Univision interview May 2008, Pro 8 News interview July 2008, and the Laredo
Morning Times April 2008. A copy of the news articles from the Laredo Morning Times
and LareDos are included in Annex VII.
Website: A website is currently under development, which will include a copy of the plan
as well as other information such as emergency management functions, storm weather
information, and community preparedness tips. The proposed website address is
readylaredo.com.
Citizen Involvement: Opportunities for citizen involvement were available during
different forums. One such forum was a presentation at one of the local Kiwanis meetings
on January 22, 2008. The Plan was discussed and the members present had the chance to
listen and provide feedback.
Another example of citizen involvement was during the Council sponsored town hall
meetings. Members of the project team were present during these meetings in 2008 to
present what the City is doing in terms of preparing ahead of time for the different
emergencies we face. Minutes of these meetings and a related news article is included in
the Annex section of this plan.
Participating Agency/Department Involvement
Although every department was instrumental in creating the plan, the following
contributed essential information to make it a reality. The Department’s participation
started in step 6 of the planning process. The department director and their designee were
the main points of contact and were selected because of their subject matter expertise.
These Departments are listed here:
Planning Department Building Public Library
Environmental City Manager’s Office
Health Police
26
Utilities Fire
Public Works Risk Management
Post Draft Plan Review
The plan review was divided into three phases. They are as follows: 1) Planning Team
Review – The team had an opportunity to review the plan and add comments. 2)
Department Review – Participating departments will receive a copy of the plan and
comment or add data, as they feel necessary. 3) Public Review - The document is
available for public review at Central Fire Station, the Laredo Public Library as well as
the proposed website for emergency management issues (cityoflaredo.gov). Comments
may be sent to Central Fire Station or posted on the website.
The Plan draft was also presented to various stakeholders for review during the post plan
draft review stage. Examples of those that received the submission are the Chairman for
the South Texas Development Council’s Homeland Security Advisory Committee, the
Fire Chief of the City of Zapata, Texas, H2O Partners, and the Director of the
Environmental department for the City of Laredo, Texas, among others. Additionally, a
copy of the draft is available for review to the public at Central Fire Station located at #1
Guadalupe.
Public Access Channel: The project team is currently producing an announcement on the
City’s Public Access Channel that will highlight the objectives of the Plan as well as the
need to have one. The main points shall be outlined and explained in manner that will be
easy to understand and with the objective of soliciting feedback.
Documentation
The Laredo Fire department, the coordinating department, documented and tracked
meeting attendance, participation activities, and public review and comment throughout
the entire planning process.
Agendas and draft plan documents were provided at public meetings. Public input and
comments were documented. Comments and input received through other avenues, such
as participant meetings, department review were documented and maintained in hard
copy files. Electronic media was also maintained in the electronic filing system.
Cost Benefit Analysis
The City will have the option of submitting proposals for funding these projects. The
proposals will include a cost benefit analysis to determine the feasibility of the project.
27
The methodology used will determine the best way to achieve the intended objective by
maximizing the available resources to reduce a given threat or risk in our community.
The Office of Management and Budget circular A-94 describes the economic principles
and methods by which most federal programs must determine the cost-effectiveness of
funded projects. OMB A-94 states: “Analysis should include comprehensive estimates of
the expected benefits and costs to society based on the established definitions and
practices for the program and policy evaluation. Social benefits, and not the costs to the
federal government, should be the basis for evaluating government programs or policies
that have effects on private citizens or other levels of government”.
Benefit-Cost Review (BCR) is an effort to objectively prioritize projects that will best
serve the community in a cost-effective way. This key element in the planning process is
derived from the use of relative cost-to-benefit ratios. The planning team members
participating in the development of the hazard mitigation plan will use the FEMA Benefit
Cost Analysis (BCA) software methodology to generate this ratio by using a formula.
The formula requires an estimated cost to implement the project, the estimated
replacement cost of the infrastructure protected by the project and the population served
by the services provided by agencies using the infrastructure. The method may work well
for projects associated with tangible property but does not work as well for public
education projects and code changes.
Plan Administration and Maintenance
Monitoring
Within the course of every five years, the City of Laredo’s elected officials, in
coordination with the FDOEM Hazard Mitigation Planning Team, city departments, and
stakeholders will undertake formal review and evaluation of the hazard analyses and this
HMP to ensure the documents remain current. New mitigation measures will be
developed and included in the revised document as necessary. A full, formal review,
evaluation, and update process will be initiated in 2013 with any changes needed issued
by or before January, 2014. In the future, information in this plan will be incorporated
into other existing plans and reports. For example, the City of Laredo’s Emergency
Management Coordinator will ensure that any changes made to this HMP are reflected in
his or her Emergency Management Plan (EMP). The background information contained
in the plan will be updated annually by the City of Laredo, in coordination with FDOEM
staff. Any major substantive changes to the HMP will be brought back to the city council
for consideration and formal adoption. A record of changes will be maintained during this
process. Again, the City of Laredo is committed to involving the public directly in the
implementation and monitoring of this HMP. City of Laredo Web site
(www.cityoflaredo.gov) and the public will have an opportunity to provide feedback on
the plan on a continuing basis. The planning committee developed a procedure for review
and updating the plan. Each department which has an action item in the plan or is
responsible for mitigating disasters will be on the committee, including, but not limited
to, the following departments:
28
_ Emergency Management
_ Planning
_ Public Works
_ Fire
_ Police
_ Transportation
_ Traffic
_ Code Enforcement
_ Public Information
This HMPP will be reviewed on an annual basis by the planning team. The meetings will
be held in February of each year and will be scheduled by the Emergency Management
Coordinator for the City of Laredo. Prior to the meetings, each department within the
City of Laredo will obtain reports from the persons who are responsible for the
implementation of each action item. Each goal will be reviewed to determine if the action
items have been completed or need to be revised. The departments will then review the
reports and, if necessary suggest revisions and justifications for the revisions to the plan.
Monitoring Actions Involved Parties Date
Notify Departments Emergncy Management Coord January
of Review (EMC) (Annually)
Evaluate/Review EMC and City Department February
Plan Heads (Annually)
Hold Revisions EMC and Deartments March
Meeting (Annually if needed)
Update Plan EMC May
(Annually if needed)
Evaluating
The mitigation actions will be evaluated by each department at the first of each year.
After notification from the Emergency Management Coordinator each department will
determine if any of their actions are still viable or need to be revised. Actions could be
removed if they have been accomplished or are no longer viable for inclusion in the plan.
If actions are accomplished by other means other than those noted in the mitigation plan,
this will also need to be documented in the plan. After evaluating the plan department
will meet at the direction of the EMC to discuss the revisions. Revisions will then be
forwarded to the Emergency Management Coordinator to update the plan.
29
Monitoring Actions Involved Parties Date
Notify Departments Emergncy Management Coord January
of Review (EMC) (Annually)
Evaluate/Review EMC and City Department February
Plan Heads (Annually)
Hold Revisions EMC and Deartments March
Meeting (Annually if needed)
Update Plan EMC May
(Annually if needed)
Individuals within the departments responsible for this HMP (as well as individuals
responsible for the various plans mentioned in this HMP) shall use but are not limited to
using, the following criteria to evaluate:
Criteria Yes No Solution
Are goals still
applicable?
Have any changes in
the state or
community made the
goals obsolete or
irrelevant?
Do existing actions
need to be
reprioritized for
implementation?
Can actions be
implemented with
available resources?
Updating
The Hazard Mitigation Plan will be reviewed and evaluated annually and updated if
revisions are needed. The HMP will be formally updated every five years to include new
hazards and new mitigation actions. Also in the plan will be updated on the disposition of
existing mitigation actions to see if they are still viable and if they need to stay in the plan
or be removed. Revisions will then be forwarded to the Emergency Management
Coordinator to update the plan. The plan revisions will be completed within two months
and returned to the each department and the State of Texas GDEM Mitigation Office. If
no changes to the plan are necessary, justification will be forwarded to the State of Texas
GDEM Mitigation Office. A formal revision of the MAP will be done at the five year
mark if no updates have been made before that time.
30
Updating Actions Involved Parties Date
Notify Departments Emergency Management Coord. January
of Review (EMC) (Annually)
Evaluate/Review EMC and City Department Heads February
Plan (Annually)
Hold Revisions EMC andDepartments March(Annually
Meeting if needed)
Solicit Public EMC, Departments, Public March(Annually
Opinion if needed)
Update Plan EMC May (Annually if needed)
The City of Laredo’s elected officials in coordination with the FDOEM Hazard
Mitigation Planning Team, city departments, and stakeholders will be responsible for
coordinating the implementation of actions identified in this MAP and undertaking other
activities to reduce vulnerability and risks within the City of Laredo. The existence of this
HMPP will also be publicized in the Laredo Morning Times, the local newspaper.
Existing Mitigation Documents
During the course of the planning process, we researched existing City of Laredo
mitigation documents and found there to be several on file as the City has historically
taken a proactive approach to emergency planning. The research consisted of consulting
with the City Secretary’s office, researching City archives and requesting plans and
documents from City departments. The request for plans and documents from City
departments was done at a staff meeting in April of 2008 with an explanation that these
were needed for incorporation into the plan. The purpose for incorporation of these
documents is to describe how the city is taking mitigation action as well as allow for
public input on the existing plans. The meeting was documented by having those present
sign in. Also, a Power Point presentation and outline was prepared for the meeting. The
meeting sign in sheets are included in the Annex section of the Plan.
These documents are included in the annex section of our Plan. See Table of Contents for
specific location.
Not all departments have mitigation documents but the ones that do responded promptly.
Among the documents that have been identified for incorporation into the plan are the
following along with the department from which it originated:
Storm Water Management Guide
Environmental Services Department
This guide is used as a reference for predicting rainfall intensity as well as a Best
Practices Guide that addresses the protection of the environment from
contaminants already borne by storm water run-off. Of particular relevance and
use for mitigation planning is the formulas contained therein to predict the impact
of rainfall in our community based on its intensity. By possessing this information
31
we have a better understanding of how our infrastructure will manage different
amounts of rainfall.
Land Development Code
Planning Department
The Land Development Code (which can de reviewed in Annex H) contains two
sections that address Flood Plain Issues and Fire Hazard Districts. These
mitigation documents set standards which are crucial to minimizing the negative
impact on our community. Two sections of interest and relevance to the plan are
the Flood Plain Management Standards Section (24-69) and the Fire Hazard
Specific Use Overlay Zone Section (24-74). These were incorporated into the plan
because they discuss ways the City attempts to reduce the negative impact of
flood and fire events through adopted codes. A brief description is given below.
Floodplain Management Standards Section 24-69: The purpose of these standards
is to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and to minimize
public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas by provisions
designed to:
1) Regulate uses which are dangerous to health, safety and property due to
water erosion hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or
in flood heights or velocities;
2) Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve
such uses, be protected against flood damage at the time of initial
construction;
3) Control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural
protective barriers which are involved in the accommodation of flood
waters;
4) Control filling, grading, dredging and other development which may
increase erosion or flood damages;
5) Regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert
flood waters or which may increase flood hazards to other lands, and;
6) Qualify and maintain for the participation in the National Flood Insurance
Program.
Fire Hazard Specific Use Zoning Overlay District Section 24-74: The purpose of
the Fire Hazard Specific Use Overlay Zone is to establish standards for
construction to the prevention and suppression of fires within that district.
Hazardous Cargo Community Risk Assessment
Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
At present, carriers transporting non-radioactive hazardous materials (NRHM)
through the Laredo Metropolitan Area can only cross the border between Mexico
and the U.S. via the Colombia Solidarity Bridge. Given that the location of many
drayage warehouses and storage facilities for hazardous cargos is on the
32
southwest side of the City in proximity to Bridges 1 and 2, carriers have
petitioned to allow for transportation of hazardous cargo across the World Trade
Bridge. This study evaluates the potential risks associated with alternative NRHM
designations that would include the World Trade Bridge as an option to cross the
U.S.-Mexican Border.
The study was incorporated into the study because its main purposes was to: 1) to
determine if risks to human populations and the natural environment from
hazardous cargo spills or releases along the appropriately designated highway
routes would increase if the World Trade Bridge is opened for hazardous cargo
transportation; and 2) to revisit the risks associated with the use of all currently
designated truck routes for hazardous materials transportation given alternative
routing options, current locations of storage warehouses, and current population
and employment patterns.
What was learned from this study is that the City of Laredo does not have an
officially-designated Non-Hazardous Hazard Material (NRHM) route. However,
it does have a designated truck route that functions as the de facto NRHM route
system. The route is described in detail in section 3.2, page 3-5 of the study.
Annex L.
Emergency Management Plan Mitigation Annex
Fire Department
This annex (Located in Annex M) describes the organization of the local Hazard
Mitigation Team (HMT), and assigns tasks, and responsibilities for coordinated
hazard mitigation planning and implementation activities and actions. It was
incorporated in to the plan because it addresses mitigation as a long term, on-
going process, and identifies planning and implementation actions applicable to
both pre-incident and post-incident situations for our City.
Furthermore, it explains the methodologies and progressive steps as to how we
plan to identify the hazards that affect us and to systematically reduce the
identified levels of risk and vulnerability to these hazards. What is learned from
this document is that the implementation of effective hazard mitigation measures
requires utilization of all resources available to our City. Multi-disciplined, long-
range mitigation planning requires a coordination of City personnel with
administrative, financial, and technical knowledge and expertise in a variety of
functional areas that may be needed to achieve mitigation objectives.
33
Water Conservation Plan
City Utilities Department
The City passed Ordinance number 2005-O-339 to address plans to conserve
water in times of need. In it, the City expresses its wishes to maximize its water
resources and recognizes that the amount of water available is limited and subject
to depletion in periods of extreme drought. It also details specific goals and
measures that are taken when the plan is implemented.
The process by which we incorporate other plans will require the Fire Department Office
of Emergency Management (FDOEM) to monitor and identify documents that become
available. Documents such as ordinances, Department plans or other documents
presented to the City Council for approval will be reviewed and analyzed for possible
incorporation into the plan by the plan project officer. This will be done by reviewing the
City Council Agenda every two weeks and looking for and extracting pertinent
information. The information will then be inserted into the plan in its appropriate section
for review prior to submitting the updates. Additionally, a letter will be sent to local
government and community entities ( such as the County, school districts, institutions of
higher education, American red Cross, and Rotary Club) advising of the updating
process. At the same time we will request any input and documentation for review and
incorporation into the plan.
Plans that will receive plan data and process incorporation include but are not limited to:
The City of Laredo Emergency Mitigation Plan, City of Laredo Ordinances and Codes,
Fire Department Pre-Incident Plans, and Laredo/Nuevo Laredo Sister City Plan. We can
also work with the City’s Flood Plain Manager to include information from the Hazard
Mitigation Plan into other plans such as the City’s Storm Water Document. The Process
in which we can include information from this plan or include any major substantive
changes will be brought to the City Council for consideration and formal adoption via the
preparation of a council communication document outlining the specific changes to be
approved.
34
Section IV
Community Hazard Analysis
Definitions for Hazard Analysis
Identifying the hazards is the first step in any effort to reduce community vulnerability.
Hazard analysis involves identifying all of the hazards that potentially threaten a
community and analyzing them individually to determine the degree of threat that is
posed by each. Hazard analysis determines:
· What hazards can occur.
· How often they are likely to occur.
· How severe the situation is likely to get.
· How these hazards are likely to affect the community.
· How vulnerable the community is to the hazard.
Each profile includes the following information about the hazard:
· Frequency of occurrence—how often it is likely to occur.
· Magnitude and potential intensity—how bad it can get.
· Location—where it is likely to strike.
· Probable spatial extent—how large an area it is likely to affect.
· Duration—how long it can be expected to last.
· Seasonal pattern—the time of year during which it is more likely to occur.
· Speed of onset—how fast it is likely to occur.
The following pages contain a profile for each of the hazards identified for The City of
Laredo.
Definitions:
Potential Severity of Impact:
35
Substantial
Multiple deaths
Complete Shutdown of facilities for 30 days or more
More than 50 percent of property destroyed or with major damage
Major
Injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent disability
Complete shutdown of critical facilities for more than 2 weeks
More than 25 percent of property destroyed or with major damage
Minor
Injuries and or illnesses do not result in permanent disability
Complete shutdown of critical facilities for more than 1 week
More than 10 percent property destroyed or with major damage
Limited
Injuries and/or illnesses are treatable with first aid and/or definitive care
Minor quality of life lost
Shutdown of critical facilities and services for 24 hours or less
Less than 10 percent of property destroyed or with major damage
Probability of Occurrence
High Likely: Event Probable within the next year
Likely: Event Probable within the next 3 years
Occasional: Event possible within the next 5 years
Unlikely: Event possible in next ten years and beyond
36
High Winds
High winds are defined as air moving (sometimes with considerable force, in excess of
30 miles per hour) from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure.
Potential Severity of impact: Limited
Probability of Occurrence: Likely
Seasonal Pattern: Winter to early spring
Background: According to weather history data retrieved from sources such as NOAA
databases, we experience on of these events at least once a year.
Winds storms cause structural damage to residences and business (especially to the
roofs), cause power line damage and fan wild land fires. Storms of this nature have had
recorded speeds of up to seventy (70) miles-per-hour.
37
Area Affected: High winds have affected and may affect the entire City of Laredo and/or
portions of Webb County.
Probable Duration: 30 minutes to 8 hours
Warning Time: Minutes to 24 hours
History of Events:
Type of Event Date Description
Severe winds 12/31/08 High winds in excess of 50 Mph with a combination
of low temperatures. This fanned several grass fires
ignited by fireworks.
Severe winds 04/08 High winds in excess of 60 mph fanning several
fires throughout the city and county. Some damage
to structures as a result.
Severe winds 06/05 High winds in excess of 70 mph damaging several
and hail structures and over-turning several airplanes at the
Laredo International Airport. Quarter sized hail
damaged homes, businesses and vehicles.
38
Extreme Cold
Extreme weather can be defined as severe winter conditions, such as when snow and/or
ice, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring and may affect our area.
Potential Severity of impact: Limited
Probability of Occurrence: Unlikely
Seasonal Pattern: Winter
Background: The winter season in Laredo is very short. The coldest part of the year is
between late December to early February. Highs average around the low fifties and the
lows average around the low forties to upper thirties.
39
At times, we will encounter overnight lows in the mid to upper twenties. The impact this
has on our community ranges from ruptured water lines, auto accidents caused by icy
roads and even respiratory illnesses among the young and elderly.
Area Affected: Extreme Cold has affected and may affect the entire City of Laredo
and/or portions of Webb County.
Probable Duration: 30 minutes to 8 hours
Warning Time: Minutes to 24 hours
History of Events:
Type of Event Date Description
Extreme Cold 12/89 Extreme cold with temperatures in the mid 20’s and
low 30’s ruptured several water mains and gas lines.
This caused the mentioned utilities to be down for
more than 24 hours in several parts of the city.
Iced roads provoked several motor vehicle
accidents.
40
Floods
Flash Floods: A flash food event generally results in from a torrential rain or “cloudburst”
on a relatively small drainage area. Runoff from these intense rainfalls result n a high
flood waters that can destroy roads, bridges, homes, buildings and other community
developments. Discharges quickly reach a maximum and diminish almost as rapidly.
Flash flood events are a potential source of destruction and a threat to public safety in
areas where the terrain is steep, surface runoff rates are high, streams flow in narrow
canyons and gullies or severe thunderstorms stall over an area.
41
Riverine Floods: Riverine flood events are caused by precipitation over large areas and
differ from flash flood events in their extent and duration. Riverine flood events take
place in river systems whose tributaries may drain large geographic areas and encompass
many independent river basins. Flood events in a large river system may continue for
periods ranging from a few hours to many days. Flood flows in large river systems are
influenced primarily by variations in the intensity, amount, and distribution of
precipitation. The condition of the ground, amount of soil moisture, seasonal variations in
vegetation and imperviousness due to urbanization directly affects flood runoff.
Flood peaks at Laredo, TX Rio Grande
Date Gage-ft
June, 1865 62.5
September 27, 1894 32.2
September 21, 1896 34.3
June 15, 1899 37.4
April 7, 1900 35.7
May 15, 900 22
September 25, 1900 22
June 15, 1903 21.3
September 17, 1904 32.3
July 1, 1905 36.6
August 14, 1906 27.7
June 19, 1912 27
October 6, 1914 32.8
September 29, 1917 27.2
October 23, 1918 20.9
September 18, 1919 40.3
Sepember 24, 1919 36.1
June 20, 1922 50.9
September 8, 1923 23.5
May 31, 1925 39.9
September 3, 1932 52.2
September 9, 1932 23.4
October 2, 1932 22.47
October 8, 1932 22.37
June 16, 1935 35.1
September 7, 1935 32.28
June 30, 1936 20.96
September 14, 1936 18.44
July 26, 1938 27.4
42
September 20, 1941 20.31
August 29, 1944 22.44
October 10, 1945 22.8
June 26, 1948 47.83
July 6, 1948 26.97
February 27, 1949 20.41
June 29, 1954 61.35
August 27, 1998 32
River Flooding event by
month in Laredo
September 14
June 8
October 4
August 3
July 3
May 2
April 1
February 1
Potential Severity of impact: Limited
Probability of Occurrence: Highly Likely
Seasonal Pattern: Spring through early summer
Background: Flash Flooding in our community is the most frequent event that we
experience. On average, we can expect to see two events that produce 3.5 to 4 inches of
rain in a very short period.
In June of 2007, a storm cell developed late in the night that produced in excess of 7
inches of rain. This flash flood caused significant flooding to many homes in different
parts of the city where we have historically seen problems. A young girl died after
returning from her sweet sixteen party when the vehicle she was in was swept away by
strong currents in a low level area roadway. Additionally, rising waters during a flash
flood event will damage many homes, businesses and vehicles. The resulting damage is
seen in the form of several inches of water in homes and businesses as well as engine
damage to a wide variety of vehicle types.
43
In addition to flash flooding events, the other threat that exists is flooding caused by the
Rio Grande River. Our proximity to this river places our community at risk. Excess rain
in areas up-river from our community will cause our river to swell, prompting possible
evacuations, damage to property and possible loss of life
An extreme example of a riverine flood event occurred in 1948 when rising waters
destroyed the only international bridge linking US and Mexico as well as the only rail
bridge. This caused disruption throughout the community for months while the bridges
had to be re-built.
Areas Affected: Riverine flood events will affect the entire length of the Rio Grande
along Webb County and Laredo. This constitutes more than more than 90 miles that can
be potentially affected. Its impact is greater closer to the populated areas of the river at
Laredo. More specifically, it poses a greater danger at the four International Bridge
locations and along the Chacon and Zacate Creek where several homes are located.
Flood
Zones
The 100-year or Base
Floodplain.
There are six types of A
zones:
The base floodplain mapped by approximate methods, i.e., BFEs are not determined. This is often called
A an unnumbered A zone or an approximate.
A
zone
These are known as numbered A zones (e.g., A7 or A14). This is the base floodplain
A1-30 where the firm shows a BFE (old format).
The base floodplain where base flood elevations are provided. AE zones are now used
AE on new format FIRMs instead of A1-30 zones.
Zone
A
The base floodplain with sheet flow, ponding, or shallow flooding. Base flood
AO depths (feet above ground) are provided.
Shallow flooding base
AH floodplain. BFEs are provided.
Area to be protected from base flood by levees or Federal flood protection systems
A99 under construction. BFEs are not determined.
44
The base floodplain that results from the de-certification of a
AR previously accredited flood protection system
that is in the process of being restored to provide a 100-year or
greater levelof flood protection
The coastal area subject to velocity
V hazard (wave action) where
Zone BFEs are not determined on the Flood
V Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
and The coastal area subject to velocity hazard (wave action) where BFEs
VE VE are provided on the FIRM.
Zone B and Zone X Area of moderate flood hazard, usually the area between the limits of
(shaded) the 100-year and the 500-year floods.
B zones are also used to designate base floodplains or lesser
hazards, such as areas protected
by levees from the 100-year flood, or shallow flooding areas with average depths of less than one
foot or drainage areas less than 1 square mile.
Zone C and Zone X Area of minimal flood hazard, usually depiction FIRMs as
(unshaded) exceeding the 500-year flood level.
Zone C may have ponding and local drainage problems that do not warrant a detailed
study or designation as base floodplain.
Zone X is the area determined to be
outside the 500-year flood.
Zone Area of undetermined but
D possible flood hazards.
Source: Understanding Your Risks, identifying
hazards and estimating losses, FEMA 386-2
Flash Flooding will affect the neighborhoods and streets along three tributaries that feed
into the Rio Grande. Chacon, Zacate and Manadas Creek run diagonally in a
southeasterly direction causing the areas adjacent to flood during a heavy downpour
usually of about 2 inches of rain. Some neighborhoods that have been affected repeatedly
during these types of event have been the Retama, Chapparral, Downtown West, Three
Points, Hidden Meadows, and Century City. Streets that repeatedly flood during these
events are Jacaman Road, McPherson Road, Clark/Park Street, stretches of Santa Maria
Ave.
Probable Duration: Minutes to several hours
Warning Time: Minutes to 24 hours
History of Events:
Type of Event Date Description
Flash Flood 06/19/07 7 inches of rain recorded. Over 100 hundred
Sustained minor to moderate flooding. 1 fatality.
Flash Flood 07/23/08 3 inches of rain recorded. Several streets flood and
and numerous motorists become stranded.
Flash Flood 05/10/06 3 inches of rain recorded. Several streets flood and
and numerous motorists become stranded.
Riverine Flood * See Table
45
Drought
There are four perspectives on drought: meteorological, agricultural, hydrological, and
socioeconomic. What follows is a description of each of these four perspectives.
Meteorological
Meteorological drought is usually defined by the measure of the departure of
precipitation from the normal and the duration of the dry period. As mentioned before,
the area of concern must be taken into consideration with this definition. Atmospheric
conditions that cause the deficiencies of moisture vary greatly from region to region.
Some definitions identify droughts based on the number of days an area goes with
precipitation that is lower than a specified level. This is only applicable for regions in
which a characteristic is a year-round precipitation period, such as tropical rainforests and
humid subtropical and mid-latitude climates. In areas which are characterized by
seasonal precipitation periods, such as the central United States, extended periods without
rainfall is a common occurrence. In these cases, determining drought based on non-
precipitation days is unrealistic.
Agricultural
46
Agricultural definitions refer to situations in which the moisture in the soil is no longer
sufficient to meet the needs of the crops growing in the area. Focus is placed on
precipitation shortages, reduced ground water/reservoir levels, differences between actual
and potential evapotranspiration, and so on. Good definitions of agricultural drought will
account for susceptibility of crops during different stages in its development. When soil
moisture is lacking, this may hinder its proper development, leading to low plant numbers
and eventually lower final yield. The water demand a crop has depends on weather
conditions (such as temperature, relative humidity), its biological make-up, what stage of
growth the crop is in, and the physical/chemical make-up of the soil. If soil moisture is
high enough to allow for proper early development, later lacking moisture may not
deplete final yield if the moisture can be replaced as the growing season goes on
(irrigation, or sufficient rainfall meets those needs).
Hydrological
Hydrological drought deals with surface and subsurface water supplies (such as stream
flow, reservoir/lake levels, ground water). Extended periods of lacking precipitation
cause these water supplies to drop below normal. This drought is no different than the
others in regard to the fact it is caused by a lack of moisture, but is different than the
others in one significant way. Hydrological droughts are usually not occurring at the
same time as the others, instead lags behind. This drought deals more with effects the
lack of moisture has on the hydrological system as a whole. It takes longer periods of
time for the lack of moisture to show up in places such as the ground water, reservoir,
and lake levels. When the flow in these places is affected significantly enough, this can
have economic effects on the area on things such as hydroelectric power plants and
recreational areas.
Though the climate/weather is the main contributor to hydrological drought, things such
as changes in landscape, land use, and construction of dams also have significant impacts
on the drought. Such changes may not have a great effect on the immediate region, it is a
sure thing that it will impact the region downstream from the moisture. This is also true
with meteorological drought. An example of this type of thing occurring would be in the
case of a drought in the Northern Great Plains. Since the Missouri River flows to the
south, the lack of moisture to the north will also impact the area downstream from the
drought inflicted area. The changes in land/water use in the Great Plains will alter the
hydrological characteristics such as the flow and runoff rates, which in turn could cause a
drought in the area downstream from the original area to the north. This shows how land
use changes/human alterations can alter the frequency of water shortages even when no
meteorological drought is being observed.
Socioeconomic
Socioeconomic drought refers to the situation that occurs when water shortages begin to
effect people and their lives. It associates economic good with the elements of
meteorological, agricultural, and hydrological drought. It is different than the other
definitions in the fact that this drought is based on the process of supply and demand.
Many economic goods (for example: water, food grains, fish, hydroelectric power), have
their supplies greatly dependent on the weather. Due to natural variations in climate,
47
some years have high supplies of water, but other years the supply is very low. A
socioeconomic drought takes place when the supply of an economic good cannot meet
the demand for that product, and the cause of this short-fall is weather-related (water
supply).
For most cases, demand for goods increase due to population increases and
consumption. Improved production, technology, and construction on reservoirs for water
supplies may increase the supply for goods. If both are increasing, the rate of this change
is crucial. If demand is increasing faster than the supply, the impact of a drought will be
much more significant on the area it affects.
Potential Severity of impact: Limited
Probability of Occurrence: Likely
Seasonal Pattern: Spring through fall
Background: The climate anomaly known as drought is recurring event in our
community that lasts for months of the year. So much so, that we have grown accustomed
to the lack of precipitation. The two types of drought experienced are agricultural and
hydrologic. The first type is described as a dry period of sufficient duration and intensity
that crop and animal agriculture are drastically affected through shortages of forage and
water for livestock. The second type, hydrologic, is best described as a long-term
condition of abnormally dry weather that ultimately leads to the depletion of surface and
ground water supplies and the significant reduction in flow of rivers, streams, and
springs. To mitigate this, the City has created and implemented a water rationing
contingency plan that dictates when citizens can water lawns or wash vehicles. In the
most extreme cases, watering of lawns and washing of cars is prohibited by the plan.
Furthermore, drought conditions contribute the rapid spread of grass fires due to dry
brush, heat related injuries, and water shortages. Other impacts involved the death of
livestock and withering of crops at several ranches in rural Webb County.
Areas Affected: A sustained drought season will affect the entire city of Laredo and
County of Webb.
Probable Duration: Months to year-round
Warning Time: N/A
History of Events:
Type of Event Date Description
Drought Summer 05 Extreme Drought
Drought Summer 06 Extreme Drought
Palmer Classifications
4.0 or more extremely wet
3.0 to 3.99 very wet
2.0 to 2.99 moderately wet
1.0 to 1.99 slightly wet
0.5 to 0.99 incipient wet spell
48
0.49 to -0.49 near normal
-0.5 to -0.99 incipient dry spell
-1.0 to -1.99 mild drought
-2.0 to -2.99 moderate drought
-3.0 to -3.99 severe drought
-4.0 or less extreme drought
Figure 1
A evidenced in this figure, we can see how our area can experience the full range of the
Palmer Drought Index (PDI). In this instance the effects have persisted throughout the
summer season.
Our community has experienced the 4.0-or less range of the PDI on average during the
summer months; however, there have been occasions when we have experienced the full
range of the index during periods of extreme drought
49
Fire Hazard
Fire is defined as a rapid, persistent chemical change that releases heat and light and is
accompanied by flame, especially the exothermic oxidation of a combustible substance.
Conversely, a wildfire is defined as a raging, rapidly spreading fire in wooded or area f
vegetation.
Potential Severity of impact: Limited
Probability of Occurrence: Likely
Seasonal Pattern: No Seasonal Pattern
Background: Another hazard that frequently threatens our community is the threat of
fire. Historically the fires that have occurred, have been confined the structure of fire
origin. Fire crews have managed to protect exposures and avoid spread to adjacent
buildings.
Areas of particular interest to us in terms of hazard threat are the older warehouse
districts and the different lumberyards. We have identified at least five (5) businesses
50
with large inventories of lumbar and two warehouse districts whose buildings were
constructed several decades ago and contain heavy fire loads.
Probable Duration: several hours
Areas Affected: Areas that have been identified of special concern are the older
warehouse districts such as in the Western and Logan Districts. These districts are
adjacent to railroads, residences and businesses.
Residential fires are ranked as the number one cause of fire related deaths in our
community. History tells us that most if not all recorded deaths occurred at home and in
most cases in homes without a smoke detector. This is why it was essential to include this
as an affected area in the plan.
Other areas that we must be aware of are populated areas that border brush and wild land
in our community. In the past, homes and residents have been placed in danger when
these fires fanned by high winds approach inhabited areas.
Warning Time: minimal
History of Events:
Type of Event Date Description
Warehouse Fire 07/24/06 A used clothes warehouse catches fire and burns for
several days in the older warehouse district.
Wild land Fire 12/26/07 Wild land adjacent to a residential area burns as
high winds contribute to its quick spread. Fire
is believed to have been ignited by fireworks.
Mobile Home Fire 01/11/08 A mobile home burns to the ground claiming five
lives, including four children. The heat was so
intense that there was no evidence if a smoke
detector was present.
Keetch-Bryam Drought Index
The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) is basically a mathematical system for relating
current and recent weather conditions to potential or expected fire behavior. These
numbers correlate with potential fire behavior as follows:
0 - 200 Soil and fuel moisture are high. Most fuels will not readily ignite or burn.
However, with sufficient sunlight and wind, cured grasses and some light surface fuels
will burn in spots and patches.
200 - 400 Fires more readily burn and will carry across an area with no gaps. Heavier
fuels will still not readily ignite and burn. Also, expect smoldering and the resulting
smoke to carry into and possibly through the night.
400 - 600 Fire intensity begins to significantly increase. Fires will readily burn in all
directions exposing mineral soils in some locations. Larger fuels may burn or smolder for
several days creating possible smoke and control problems.
51
600 - 800 Fires will burn to mineral soil. Stumps will burn to the end of underground
roots and spotting will be a major problem. Fires will burn thorough the night and heavier
fuels will actively burn and contribute to fire intensity.
Our community has experienced the 400-600 range of the KBDI on average during the
summer months; however, there have been occasions when we have experienced the full
range of the index during periods of extreme drought.
Figure 2
A evidenced in this figure, we can see how our area can experience the full range of the
KBDI. In this instance the effects have persisted throughout the summer season.
52
Highways
Railroads
Figure 3
The residential and commercial structures in the east part of Laredo are located nearby
highways railroads and thick brush. The Fire Department has opened two fire stations in
this area to mitigate the effects of a fire threat.
53
Railroad
Highways
Figure 4
Highways and railroads are adjacent to thick brush, commercial and residential
structures. This area is also in east Laredo where we have a fire station located.
54
Highway
Railroad
Figure 5
This figure depict the area of Laredo that s bordered by the Rio Grande to the south, rail
road tracks to the west, residential and commercial to the west as well as critical
infrastructure such as two international bridges to the east.
55
Railroad Highways
Airport
Figure 6
In figure six we see the residential areas and critical infrastructure such as the
International Airport that is bordered by either highways, railroads and or thick brush.
56
Figure 7
This figure illustrates the residential and commercial structures potentially affected by
wildfires.
57
Hazardous Materials Release
Hazardous materials are substances or combination of substances, which have the
capability to harm people’s health or the environment, including plants or other animals.
Many of the materials needed to support a modern industrial society are hazardous;
hence, hazardous materials are manufactured, stored, used, and transported in our City.
Potential Severity of impact: Limited
Probability of Occurrence: Likely
Seasonal Pattern: No Seasonal Pattern
Background: Located along the US/Mexico Border, we are strategically positioned to
provide services to the South Texas Rio Grande Valley, surrounding cities and cities
located along the Mexican border. The Laredo Fire Department Hazmat Response team is
prepared and continues to be proactive in providing training that mutually benefits our
City, State and Country. The Port of Laredo handles more than 40% of all overland trade
between the United States and Mexico.
The situation our community faces today is the increasing volume of commercial traffic
with hazardous cargo passing through our city via road and rail. In addition, we are
experiencing an expansion of commercial warehousing that store the hazardous materials
transported by commercial traffic. This reflects an increase for calls our department
makes to hazmat incidents as we have see in the past.
Of note are recent emergency calls that posed a threat to our community and contained all
of the necessary elements to escalate to a major disaster.
58
A tractor- trailer overturned on Hwy 359 spilling a significant amount of highly
toxic sodium hydroxide. The highway was closed for several hours. Prevailing
winds threatened to carry fumes towards the City.
A tractor-trailer was found to be leaking an unknown chemical. The trailer
contained several pallets of AG Oxycom, an oxidizer corrosive that causes
irritation of the respiratory track when inhaled.
A train derailment caused several boxcars containing petroleum alkalate and
benzene 10% to burn exposing one boxcar with tetrachchloroethylene. Residents
in the immediate area were evacuated. Wind conditions threatened to carry fumes
towards a populated area.
A Haz-Mat spill in Nuevo Laredo Mexico went unreported for days when a trailer
overturned and spilled the cargo on highway only miles from the US/Mexico
border. The situation went un-reported while responders attempted to contain the
situation. The chemical was not identified until three days after the incident.
The existence of rail yards in the midst of a heavily populated area of town also poses a
threat to those families living there. These boxcars transport a huge amount of cargo
throughout the day at the risk of derailment.
Probable Duration: Several hours to several days
Areas Affected: Any of the commercial warehouse districts or main cargo routes, either
road or rail.
There are currently over 20 active industrial parks (Warehouse Districts) in Laredo. The
square footage of the warehouse space totals over 5000 acres. Any one of these can store
hazardous materials at any given time.
Crossroads Milo Distribution Center
Del Mar Industrial park Modern Industrial Park
East Point Octavio Salinas Industrial Park
El Portal Pan American Business Park
Embarcadero Pellegrino Park
Inter-America Pinto Valle Industrial Park
International Airport Industrial Park RMR & TWJ Industrial Park
International Commerce Center South Laredo Industrial Park
International Trade Center Southern Development Industrial Park
Killam Industrial Park Tejas Industrial Park
Laredo International Air Park Tex-Mex Industrial park
McPherson Acres Unitec Industrial Park
Millennium Industrial Park World Trade Commerce Center
The main road cargo routes that pass through our city are IH 35, US Highways, 59, 83
and 359 as well as the two rail lines from Union Pacific and Kansas City Southern.
59
Warning Time: Minimal
History of Events:
Type of Event Date Description
Haz Mat Spill 01/09/08 Chlorine product leaks from a drum inside
a trailer creating nauseous fumes necessitating
evacuation of nearby office buildings.
60
Tornado
A tornado is a violent destructive whirling wind accompanied by a funnel-shaped cloud
that progresses in a relatively narrow path over land. A tornado is formed when cold air
overriding a warmer air mass breaks through the upper boundary formed by two air
masses and in a violent rotating column descends because of its heavier weight. This
creates hole in the air mass boundary allowing the warm, lighter air to rush upward into
the cold air. This cold-warm exchange of air is most violent and causes a funnel shaped
rotating extrusion which is nearly always from a thunderstorm cloud filled with intense,
continuous lightening. It builds downward toward the ground and is clear except for a
small funnel plume of condensation. As it nears the ground, it darkens and picks up dust
and debris.
61
Tornado intensity is measured and reported using the Fujita Scale shown below:
The Fujita
Scale
F-Scale Intensity Wind Type of Damage Done
Phase Speed
F0 Gale Tornado 40-72 mph Some damage to chimneys; breaks branches off trees; pushes over
shallow-rooted trees; damages sign boards
F1 Moderate 73-112 The lower limit is the beginning of hurricane wind speed; peels surface off
Tornado mph roof; mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned; moving autos
pushed off the roads; attached garages may be destroyed
F2 Significant 113-157 Considerate damage. Roofs torn off frame houses; mobile homes
Tornado mph destroyed; boxcars pushed over; large trees snapped or uprooted;
light object missiles generated
F3 Severe 158-206 Roof and some walls torn off well constructed houses; trains overturned
Tornado mph most trees in forests uprooted
F4 Devastating 207-260 Well-constructed houses leveled; structures with weak foundations blown
Tornado mph off some distance; cars thrown and large missiles created
F5 Incredible 261-318 Strong frame houses lifted off foundations and carried considerable
Tornado mph distances to disintegrate; automobile sized missiles fly through the air
in excess of 100 meters; trees debarked; steel re-enforced concrete
structures badly damaged
F6 Inconceivable 319-379 These winds are unlikely. The small area of damages they might produce
Tornado mph would probably not be recognizable along with the mess produced by F4
and F5 winds that would surround F6 winds. Missiles, such as cars and
refrigerators would do serious secondary damage that could not be directly
identified as F6 damage. If this level is ever achieved, evidence for it might
only be found in some manner of ground swirl pattern, for it may never be
identifiable through engineering studies
Potential Severity of impact: Limited to Minor
Probability of Occurrence: Unlikely
Seasonal Pattern: Mainly spring and summer
Background: Tornado events are rare occurrences in our community. Although rare,
there have been incidents where funnel clouds have been spotted in rural areas of Webb
County.
62
The following is a list of recorded tornadoes in the County of Webb:
Webb County Tornadoes
Fujita
Date Event # Hour Dead Injured Scale
5/25/1959 43 18:00 0 0 F3
4/5/1961 23 12:00 0 0 F2
9/10/1962 137 15:00 0 0 F0
6/29/1971 114 20:15 0 0 F2
5/22/1977 81 17:30 0 0 F1
5/22/1977 83 18:50 0 0 F1
7/14/1983 136 14:00 0 0 F1
*source NOAA
One incident worthy of mention is the tornado that touched down in Eagle Pass in the
summer of spring of 2007. Six people died on the US side and several homes were
destroyed as well as an elementary school.
Probable Duration: 10 minutes
Warning Time: 12 to 20 minutes
63
Section V
Vulnerability Assessment and Risk Analysis
Community and Critical Infrastructure Vulnerability
The City of Laredo is mostly susceptible to flooding and fire hazards. Based on Planning
Department data, the structures at risk are those located within the 100-year and 500-year
floodplain areas which are homes in the Western Division of the city (This includes
neighborhoods along the Rio Grande River) as well as areas of Central Laredo (including
Retama, Chaparral and points north between Hillside and Muller).
Some homes located in these areas have sustained damage in the past due to flooding.
Examples of these are noted in the Repetitive Loss Properties section of the Plan.
Damages to these properties during the 2007 summer flooding events were estimated to
be over $1 million according to FEMA Disaster Recovery preliminary reports.
The structures that could be damaged by fire include homes and businesses located along
the southeastern Division that are adjacent to wild land which is in some areas thicker
than in other parts. This is especially true in areas along the southern parts Zacate and
Chacon Creek. Property loss risk due to fire is increased because of the proximity to the
natural combustible fuel.
Data is currently unavailable as to the number of critical facilities that are in danger of
being damaged due to flooding or wild land elated fires. Initial research reveals that the
critical infrastructure properties listed in the Plan are built with these hazards I mind.
However, the planning team will include this as a mitigation action item.
OVERALL SUMMARY OF VULNERABILITY AND RISK
The following is a summary of the risk hazards our community faces and they range from
the more common events to the more remote. It includes an approximation of impact in
terms of damage that the community may suffer in a given event. The approximations are
represented in the form of percentages based on historical data acquired from sources
such as the local historical society, public library, and the National Weather Service. The
baseline number of structures used for the percentages was total number of existing
commercial and residential structures as recorded by the Webb County Appraisal District.
High Winds
High winds or wind storms have a potential of occurring during the months of February
through March. This type of hazard usually produces winds of 30 to 60 mph winds that
64
uniformly affect the community. Residential, public and commercial structures are likely
to experience this event, however, it’s estimated based on historical data collected from
the public library that an approximate 5% of these structures may experience damage in
varying degrees.
Extreme Cold
The winter season in Laredo is very short. The coldest part of the year is from late
December to early February. Highs average around the low fifties and the lows average
around the low forties to upper thirties.
At times, we will encounter overnight lows in the mid to upper twenties. The impact this
has on our community ranges from ruptured water lines, auto accidents caused by icy
roads and even respiratory illnesses among the young and elderly.
An event such as this one may cause for overpasses, roads, and bridges to become iced
over, thus increasing the potential for motor vehicle accidents. It is estimated that about
15% of the roads may be affected and would have to be closed. Also, about 1% of
residential structures may encounter broken plumbing as a result of these temperatures.
Floods
A riverine flooding event is caused by precipitation over large areas and differs from
flash flood events in their extent and duration. Riverine flood events take place in river
systems such as the Rio Grande River, whose tributaries may drain large geographic
areas and encompass many independent creek basins.
Structures that are vulnerable are primarily residential and light commercial/industrial
structures along the Rio Grande River. An example of infrastructures that are vulnerable
to a riverine flooding event are our four international bridges, an international rail bridge
and the Jefferson St. Water Treatment Plant, all located along the River. These are all
vulnerable in the event of this type of hazard.
Residential structures that would be impacted as a result of this type of hazard are
approximately 5% of the structures and approximately 5 % of the light commercial and
industrial structures.
A flash food event generally results in from a torrential rain or “cloudburst” on a
relatively small drainage area. Runoff from intense rainfalls results in high flood waters
that can destroy roads, bridges, homes, buildings and other community developments.
Structures that are vulnerable are primarily residential and light commercial/industrial
structures along the Zacate and Chacon Creek. Examples of infrastructures that are
vulnerable to a flash flood event are a Hemodialysis Center and educational facilities.
65
Residential structures that would be impacted as a result of this type of hazard are
approximately 10% of the structures and approximately 5 % of the light commercial and
industrial structures.
Drought
The climate anomaly known as drought is recurring event in our community that lasts for
months of the year. So much so, that we have grown accustomed to the lack of
precipitation. The two types of drought experienced are agricultural and hydrologic. The
first type is described as a dry period of sufficient duration and intensity that crop and
animal agriculture are drastically affected through shortages of forage and water for
livestock. The second type, hydrologic, is best described as a long-term condition of
abnormally dry weather that ultimately leads to the depletion of surface and ground water
supplies and the significant reduction in flow of rivers and creeks.
The impact of a drought will affect approximately 15 % of land within the City that is
considered for agricultural use or vacant and undeveloped. This area produces dry
vegetation in the event of a drought that creates a potential for wild land fires.
Fire
Fire is defined as a rapid, persistent chemical change that releases heat and light and is
accompanied by flame, especially the exothermic oxidation of a combustible substance.
This event, whether a structure or a wild land fire, often threatens life and property in the
urban, suburban or undeveloped areas of our City.
Conversely, a wildfire is defined as a raging, rapidly spreading fire in wild land or
undeveloped areas of the City.
The percentage of impact from fire to our community is between .01 and .05 percent. One
area of focus of firefighting tact is to contain a fire and protect adjacent structural
exposures from damage.
Wild land fires may impact up to an estimated .3% of raw acreage and adjacent homes
within our jurisdiction concentrated mostly in the undeveloped parts of the City.
Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials are substances or combination of substances, which have the
capability to harm people’s health or the environment, including plants or other animals.
Many of the materials needed to support a modern industrial society are hazardous;
hence, hazardous materials are manufactured, stored, used, and transported in our City.
Damage from a hazardous materials incident may only be confined to the transport
vehicle such as a rail car, tractor trailer or the location of storage. The affects of a hazard
material, a leak or plume cloud for example, may require an evacuation of a population
66
within a radius that may vary from 300 feet to half a mile. Assuming a worst case
scenario, this would represent about .5 % of the area that would be impacted.
Tornado
A tornado is a violent destructive whirling wind accompanied by a funnel-shaped cloud
that progresses in a relatively narrow path over land. The only known tornado to have
affected our community was in 1905. More recently, a tornado touched down in Del Rio,
Texas in 2006.
By using data from both events and projecting a path a half mile wide that would traverse
our City, it’s estimated that approximately 15% of residential structures and 15% of
commercial/light industrial structures would have an impact.
Impact to infrastructure and critical would be most vulnerable depending on the tornado.
City of Laredo Maps
The following maps illustrate different aspects of our community that reflect population
density, food prone areas and its relation as well as census tracts with its pertinent
population size.
Map 1: Population Density
Map 2: Land Use Survey
Map 3: Census Tract Map
Map 4: Land Use/Flood Prone Area Overlay
Critical Facilities
The following is a list of facilities considered to be critical in our city. It is comprised of
commercial, special population, government, and infrastructure sites. Locations for many
of these facilities may be found in Annex X: Area Flooding Identification Map. The map
title is ATG Land Use Survey 2008. It illustrates the location in relation to flood prone
areas.
67
International Bridges
Bridge I
Gateway to the Americas Bridge
Non-commercial Bridge & Pedestrian
Water & Convent
ph:(956) 795-2045
fax:(956) 795-2047
Open 24 Hours a day
7days a week
Bridge II
Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge
Non-Commercial Bridge ONLY
201 Santa Ursula
ph:(956) 795-2055
fax:(956) 795-2067,
Traffic Hours
Open 24 Hours a day
7 days a week
Bridge III
Colombia Solidarity Bridge
Non-Commercial & Commercial
FM 3464 at FM 1472
ph.(956) 417-5800
ph.(956) 729-2060
fax:(956) 417-5801
Non-Commercial Traffic
8 a.m. - 12 a.m.
7 days a week
Bridge IV
World Trade Bridge
Commercial ONLY
11601 FM Road 1472
ph.(956) 791-2200
fax:(956) 729-2061
68
Railroad Bridge
Water St. and Santa Isabel Avenue
Water treatment
Water Treatment Plant
2519 Jefferson St.
Power
Main Plant
CPL Rd and Industrial (27’34’00.89” N by 99’30’31.60” W)
Washington and San Enrique Sub Station
East Del Mar and Country Club Sub Station (27’34’34.50”N by 99’27’59.36”W)
South Ejido Ave. and Saltillo St. (27’28’21.91”N by 99’27’42.84”W)
Financial
International Bank of Commerce
Laredo National Bank
Falcon National Bank
Retail
Mall Del Norte
5300 San Dario
Communication
Telephone
AT&T Communication Building
IH 35 and Houston St (27’30’26.85”N by 99’30’07.75”W)
Radio towers
South Tower Site
327 River Front St.
Time Warner Tower Site
1313 W. Calton Rd.
Pinnacle Tower Site
Copper Mine Rd.
69
Government
City Hall
1110 Houston ST
County Court House
1000 Houston St.
US Federal Court House
Victoria St. and Convent Ave.
Hospitals
Laredo Medical Center
1710 E Saunders St.
Doctors Hospital
10700 McPherson Ave
Specialty Hospital
Bustamante St and Bartlett Ave
Military
Texas Army National Guard Armory
Bob Bullock Loop (27’33’00.01”N by 99’27’01.16”W)
Airport
5210 Bob Bullock Loop
Transportation
Evacuation Routes
Interstate Highway 35
Railroads
Union Pacific
Kansas City-Southern
Fuel Storage
Valero Fuel Storage 13 mile marker IH 35 (27’40’51.71”N by 99’27’50.”00W)
City of Laredo re-fueling station 5800 Daugherty (27’32’54.90”N by 99’28’19.22”W)
70
Industrial Sites
FOREIGN TRADE ZONE
There are 7 FTZ sites in Laredo. They are as follows:
SITE I 500 acres (Laredo International Airport)
SITE II 20 acres (Tex-Mex Railroad)
SITE III 500 acres (Killam Industrial Park)
SITE IV 1,500 acres (International Commerce Center)
SITE V 930 acres (La Barranca Ranch Development)
SITE VI 825 (Unitec Industrial Park)
SITE VII 800 (Embarcadero Industrial Park)
There are currently over 20 active industrial parks in Laredo. The square footage of the
warehouse space totals over 5000 acres. Below is a listing:
Crossroads Milo Distribution Center
Del Mar Industrial park Modern Industrial Park
East Point Octavio Salinas Industrial Park
El Portal Pan American Business Park
Embarcadero Pellegrino Park
Inter-America Pinto Valle Industrial Park
International Airport Industrial Park RMR & TWJ Industrial Park
International Commerce Center South Laredo Industrial Park
International Trade Center Southern Development Industrial Park
Killam Industrial Park Tejas Industrial Park
Laredo International Air Park Tex-Mex Industrial park
McPherson Acres Unitec Industrial Park
Millennium Industrial Park World Trade Commerce Center
71
Schools
United Independent School District Campuses
High Schools: 3
Middle Schools: 4
Elementary Schools: 21
Laredo Independent School District Campuses
High Schools: 3
Middle Schools: 5
Elementary Schools: 16
Texas A & M International University
5201 Bob Bullock Loop
Laredo Community College Main Campus
West end Washington St.
Laredo Community College South Campus
5500 South Zapata Highway
Daycares
Adult
Child
Nursing Homes
Retama Manor East
Retama Manor West
Regent Care Center
Elderly Housing
Hamilton Housing
815 Salinas
Laredo Senior Housing
700 Juarez
72
Estimating Potential Losses
The use of HAZUS software by the Planning Department is very useful in determining
the amount of potential damage that our community may sustain. The Planning/GIS staff
has been instrumental in obtaining the necessary resources to make this possible.
Historical Data has also proved valuable in determining the amount of damage the City
has and may sustain in the event of a natural disaster. Research at the City Library reveals
flood events, bridge destruction due to foreign insurgency and even tornado damage in
our City’s past.
For an estimate of the number of structures and estimated value, refer to the mp included
in this section.
The planning team has identified sixty-one repetitive loss properties in the City. This was
determined by using historical data, reports and field research. The locations are on file
with the FDOEM and are mostly residential (65%). The remaining 35% included
commercial, public buildings and critical infrastructure; 20% commercial, 10% public
buildings, and 5% critical infrastructure.
73
Section VI
City of Laredo Mitigation Strategy
City of Laredo Mitigation Strategies by Hazard Type
The Planning Team discussed and determined the strategy to be a prioritization of six (6)
goals and objectives:
1) Protect Life and Property
2) Support Emergency Services
3) Increase Public Awareness
4) Preserve Natural Systems and Resources
5) Encourage Partnerships
6) Enhance Planning Activities
7) Cost benefit feasibility
First Priority: Protect Life and Property and Support of Emergency Services
Most departments identified initiatives that supported protection of critical infrastructure
necessary to providing and supporting emergency services, public safety and essential
services during a hazard event. Mitigating the potential loss of these facilities and
systems has a direct and immediate impact on the ability to reduce injuries, save lives and
minimize property damage. The planning team also identified the need to promote
mitigation activities that prevent losses by making homes, businesses, other properties
and infrastructures more resistant to the impacts of hazards. The first step in
accomplishing this is to implement activities specific to repetitive loss properties and
chronic hazard event damages. Viable activities include better coordination among other
agencies governing land use and building regulations to ensure hazard mitigation
concerns and strategies are incorporated into development activities.
Protection of life and property often relies on the ability of citizens to take the appropriate
action before, during and after a hazard event. Critical to minimizing the loss of life and
preventing injuries is ensuring the population understands the potential hazards in our
region, how to prepare or mitigate the impacts, and what to do if a disaster should
happen. This leads to the next priority, increasing public awareness.
Second Priority: Increase Public Awareness and Preserve Natural Systems
Most agencies felt public education was one of the most important ingredients in the
regional mitigation strategy equation, with emphasis on making additional efforts to
reach populations who may be more vulnerable. Broadening the spectrum to include
businesses and private agencies, in addition to private citizens, would also enhance the
region’s ability to sustain itself during a disaster or hazard event.
74
There are numerous natural systems within the planning area that could be seriously
impacted during a manmade or natural hazard event (i.e. Lake Casa Blanca, Rio Grande
River). Working closely with other agencies to understand potential impacts on our
natural environment and resources, and to coordinate mitigation goals and objectives will
help to support the preservation of natural systems.
Third Priority: Encourage Partnerships and Enhance Planning Activities
Encouraging additional partnerships and enhancing planning activities will build upon the
existing planning effort. While the Hazard Mitigation Plan process is off to a good start,
the overall success of a long-term planning effort relies on gaining support and
involvement from the community as a whole. Inclusion of other partners and
contributions from private entities is essential in promoting a comprehensive planning
approach. Potential partners and private agencies must see the benefit in participating in
such an effort.
Fourth Priority: Cost Benefit Feasibility
Finally the planning team reviewed the projects and determined the priority based on the
maximum return on the investment; considering how the city and stakeholders could
make the best use of funds invested. The FEMA Benefits Cost Analysis (BCA) model is
a tool used for this prioritization.
Agency Mitigation Strategies
Participating departments developed their own strategy based on the goals and objectives.
All partners recognize a desire to work cooperatively on mitigation projects and
initiatives and will work collectively where funding and priorities permit.
High Winds
Action: Tree Management Program
Lead Dept: Public Works
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for materials and equipment purchase,
and for work hours
Targeted Completion: October 2010
Objective: Tree pruning near power lines can reduce the potential for trees falling
on and breaking power lines. The action will also include educating the public of
the benefits of proper pruning of tree limbs and how to do it in a safe manner.
Effects on existing Buildings: Proper tree pruning will reduce the amount of
damage to existing buildings by eliminating the potential of limbs falling on roofs
or other property.
Effects on new Buildings: By continuing this program, the effect will be to
prevent trees from growing too close to existing buildings thus preventing tree
limbs from damaging future buildings.
75
Action: Building Retrofit Awareness
Lead Dept: Building Department
Existing Resources: Technical Staff
Potential Resources: Funding for marketing materials and advertising
Targeted Completion: Ongoing
Objective: Educate residents and business owners about mitigating wind damage
through retrofitting existing structures. Additionally, alternative funding solutions
can be identified and shared with home and business owners.
Effects on existing Buildings: By retrofitting existing buildings, property owners
can protect their investments from the effects of wind damage. Techniques such
as roof protection, building exterior protection, bracing of garage doors, and
landscaping to protect buildings will reduce the potential for damage.
Effects on new Buildings: By incorporating wind protection techniques into new
or proposed buildings will prepare them for high wind events and reduce the
amount of loss.
Flood
Action: Jacaman Rd. Retention Pond Project
Lead Dept: Environmental Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff and limited funding
Potential Resources: Grant funding from federal sources for upgrades and
completion
Targeted Completion: December 2009
Objective: The retention pond will serve as a reservoir in the event of excessive
rainfall to prevent flooding of adjacent streets, business, and homes. This project
is near completion.
Effects on existing Buildings: This action will reduce the amount of damage
caused by flooding in this area of the City. Flood waters will be redirected to a
retention pond and prevent damage to surrounding existing properties.
Effects on new Buildings: The effects on new building will be that it will provide
for an area for future buildings that will be less likely to be affected by rising
flood waters.
Action: Flooded Roadway Barricade deployment and Sandbag Distribution
Program
Lead Dept: Public Works
Existing Resources: Human resources and limited funding for barricade and
sandbag production
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for materials purchase, construction
and for work hours
Targeted Completion: As needed and during flood events
Objective: The goal here is to prevent motorists from driving their vehicles into
flooded roadways and preventing them from endangering their lives and he lives
76
of others. This is done by making and distributing sandbags as well as deploying
wooden street barriers during a flood event. To improve this action would require
the funding of additional materials such as sand, sandbags, wood for barrier
construction, and human resources.
Effects on existing Buildings: Sandbag distribution and placement assists in
preventing rising flood waters to enter home and business’ through entrances and
exits. It creates a barrier that keeps the water out thus reduces the damage caused
by a flood.
Effects on new Buildings: Sandbags could be used for new buildings if needed.
If a building is constructed in a flood zone and where to be threatened by flood
waters, sandbag will help to reduce or delay the penetration of flood waters into
the property.
Action: Guatemozin St. Residential Buy-Out Project
Lead Dept: Building Department
Existing Resources: technical staff
Potential Resources: Mitigation Grant funding
Targeted Completion: June 2010
Objective: This area of town is one of the hardest hit during a flash flood. Homes
in this part of town sustain significant flooding damage. Therefore, the City opted
to buy the existing homes to avoid this problem in the future, thus reducing and
possibly eliminating the risk of loss of life or property.
Effects on existing Buildings: This action is intended to purchase repetitive loss
properties.
Effects on new Buildings: There are no plans for new structures in the proposed
buy-out area.
Action: Low Water Crossing Warning Project
Lead Dept: Traffic Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff and limited funding
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for materials purchase, construction
and for work hours
Targeted Completion: July 2010
Objective: Placing of warning signs at low water crossing will contribute to the
reduction of attempts by motorists to cross flooded roadways. The warning signs
will be activated at the first sign of possible flash flooding. They will be located in
known low water crossings and roadways throughout the City.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Action: Early Severe Weather Warning system
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for equipment purchase,
implementation, advertising of the program.
Targeted Completion: December 2010
77
Objective: The implementation of an early warning system to give instructions
before or during a significant emergency event will save lives by warning those in
danger of what to do. This system can be used in conjunction with the existing
emergency notification system Emergency Alerting System (EAS) to maximize
the number of people notified.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Action: Emergency Alerting System Coordination and Awareness project
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Community stakeholders
Targeted Completion: December 2010
Objective: An improved coordination of the Emergency Alerting System (EAS)
will allow for quality and accurate information to the public. In addition to this, an
awareness campaign will benefit the community by indicating what the program
is about, the difference between a test and a live alert, and what to do in each case.
The efforts should be conducted in both English and Spanish. This is needed
during an emergency to make decisions that will ultimately save lives.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Action: City Re-Fueling Station Backup Generators Purchase
Lead Dept: Fleet Management
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for the purchase of generators, and
installation
Targeted Completion: July 2011
Objective: During an emergency, city vehicles, especially first responders and
support functions, must rely on a dependable means of re-fueling for continuous
delivery of services. The City’s fuel facility must have a back-up generator to re-
fuel these vehicles in the event of a power outage of that facility.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Action: Portable Radios Power Inverter Installation
Lead Dept: Fleet Management
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for equipment purchase, and
installation
Targeted Completion: October 2011
Objective: Communications is essential for the safe and efficient operation of
city government even under normal conditions. In the event of an emergency or
power outage, power converters in city units for the portable radios will ensure
that they have a reliable source of re-charging their batteries.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
78
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Action: Canal Street Drainage Improvement
Lead Dept: Utilities Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Grant funding from federal sources for upgrades and
completion
Targeted Completion: December 2009
Objective: The Canal Street drainage protects many homes and business in our
City. Certain needed improvements have been identified that will reduce flooding
during a flooding event. Currently, the City is taking the lead in implementing
these improvements but would benefit from additional resources.
Effects on existing Buildings: This action will reduce the amount of damage
caused by flooding in this area of the City. Flood waters will be redirected to a via
the Canal St. drainage system and prevent damage to surrounding existing
properties
Effects on new Buildings: The effects on new building will be that it will provide
for an area for future buildings that will be less likely to be affected by rising
flood waters.
Extreme Cold
Action: Outreach and Public Awareness
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for purchase of material, and
advertisement
Targeted Completion: June 2011
Objective: The City can organize outreach to vulnerable populations during
periods of extreme temperatures, including establishing and promoting accessible
heating and cooling centers in the community. These centers should be linked to
outreach projects that encourage at-risk populations to use the centers.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Action: Weather Surveillance
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Existing Technology, Technical Staff and Computer
Hardware
Potential Resources: Grant and other alternative funding to purchase necessary
supplies and equipment for the enhanced weather surveillance program
Targeted Completion: October 2010
Objective: Improve local weather monitoring to attain earlier severe winter storm
warnings. Coordinate with appropriate organizations to evaluate the need for
more weather stations and/or weather instrumentation.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
79
Drought
Action: Water Saving Measures
Lead Dept: Utilities
Existing Resources: Current Ordinances and programs
Potential Resources: TBD
Targeted Completion: Ongoing project
Objective: Citizens may be asked and demonstrated the positive benefits of
implementing water-saving measures, especially when extra water is needed
during the summer months. Possibilities include installing low-flow water saving
showerheads and toilets.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Goal: Water Use Ordinances
Lead Dept: Utilities
Existing Resources: Human resources
Potential Resources: TBD
Targeted Completion: Ongoing project
Objective: The City has passed an ordinance (2005-O-339 passed on 12/19/05) to
regulate the use of non-essential water consumption during drought conditions.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Fire
Action: Public Education
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for purchase of material, advertisement
and human resource hours for program delivery.
Targeted Completion: June 2010
Objective: Outreach efforts can promote such items as non-combustible roof
covering, fire safe construction, and the importance of clearing brush and grass
away from buildings. It is important to promote public education on smoking
hazards and the risk of recreational fires.
Effects on existing Buildings: These actions may reduce the damage sustained
on existing buildings by preparing properties to be a fire resistive as possible.
Effects on new Buildings: By investing in these defensive and preventive
measures, new buildings will benefit from the added protection and may see a
reduction in insurance rates.
80
Action: Public Education
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for purchase of material, advertisement
and human resource hours
Targeted Completion: February 2010
Objective: Educating the public on fire safety is the first step in prevention. By
developing a comprehensive Fire Prevention Campaign, we will reduce the
numbers of fires and lives lost each year.
Effects on existing Buildings: These actions may reduce the damage sustained
on existing buildings by preparing the public to take preventive measures to
reduce the loss of life and property.
Effects on new Buildings: The same effect would apply for new buildings. Fire
prevention is one of the better ways to protect life and property new or old.
Action: Fire and Code Enforcement
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: City Staff, Existing Codes and Ordinances
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for implementation of requirements
into future critical infrastructure projects
Targeted Completion: February 2010
Objective: The efforts would be to equip future critical infrastructures such as the
new fire station and fire department headquarters the city has proposed to build
with fire protection and sprinkler systems to reduce the damage in the event of a
fire.
Effects on existing Buildings: Enforcing existing codes and ordinances will
ensure that property owners comply with accepted means of reducing the risk of
damage to existing structures.
Effects on new Buildings: The effect that this action will have on the proposed
fire station and fire department headquarters will be the installation of a sprinkler
system and fire protection system in accordance with current code and ordinance.
Hazard Materials
Action: Reduce Risk of Hazardous Material Incidents
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for purchase of material, advertisement
and human resource hours
Targeted Completion: Ongoing
Objective: Enhance railroad chemical spill mitigation
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
81
Action: Reduce the impacts of a hazardous materials incident.
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for purchase of material, advertisement
and human resource hours
Targeted Completion: Fire Department
Objective: Prevent illness from hazardous materials in vulnerable populations.
Educate teachers and school staff in schools near hazardous materials facilities
and transportation routes in how to limit exposure to hazardous materials to
students during an incident
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
Tornado
Action: Manufactured Home Protection
Lead Dept: Community Development
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for materials purchase, construction
and for work hours
Targeted Completion: December 2010
Objective: By anchoring manufactured homes and exterior attachments, damage
and injury can be prevented. The action will consist of educating the owners of
manufactured homes in preparing their homes for this type of event. It will also
include identifying alternative funding solutions to implement this action.
Effects on existing Buildings: Anchoring existing mobile home in preparation
for potential tornadoes or high wind events will aid in preventing these property
types to roll on their side.
Effects on new Buildings: Newly purchased or installed mobile homes could
implement this action and could benefit from this proactive measure.
Action: Reduce risks and vulnerability of people in tornado hazard-prone areas
through public awareness.
Lead Dept: Fire Department
Existing Resources: Technical staff
Potential Resources: Alternative funding for materials purchase, work hours
Targeted Completion: December 2010
Objective: The action will consist of advising the public about tornado safety
precautions. It will also include implementing a public education program on,
emergency sheltering, evacuation routes, and personal emergency preparedness,
i.e., emergency survival kits. We will also partner with local media to assure that
appropriate warning is provided to area residents of impending Tornado.
Effects on existing Buildings: N/A
Effects on new Buildings: N/A
82
Department
Enhance Planning
Protect Life & Property
Encourage Partnerships
Preserve natural Systems
Support Emergency Services
Increase Public Awareness
Public Works 2 1 1 2
Building 1 1 1 2 2
Environmental 1 1 1 1 1
Traffic 1 1 1 1
Fire Department 10 10 6 4 8 10
Fleet 2 2 2
Utilities 1 1 1 2 2 2
Community 1 1 1 1 1
Development
*Figures indicate the number of initiatives from planning group one supporting the six
goals.
National Flood Insurance Program
The City of Laredo participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and is
administered by the City Planning Director and his staff.
The City participates in this program by having established a Flood Prevention ordinance
and updating it in 2007, thus becoming currently compliant with FEMA an NFIP
requirements. The City of adopted the "Regulations for Floodplain Management" on
April 14, 1982, Ordinance 82-119, for the purposes of participating in the NFIP. The
older Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) have an effective date of May 17, 1982. We
are now using the New Flood Insurance Rate Maps with an effective date of April 2,
2008.
We continue to remain compliant by enforcing the ordinance and establishing guidelines
for building in flood prone areas. The Planning Department Flood Plain Manager and his
assistant provide guidance to those wishing to build in these flood prone areas.
83
Data for repetitive loss properties can be found in Annex X: Area Flooding Identification
Map. The map title is ATG Land Use Survey 2008. It illustrates the City flood prone
areas along with the types of structures that exist within these areas.
Mitigation Strategies
Utility Department
The Utilities Department provides water and wastewater services to the City of Laredo
and its extraterritorial jurisdiction. Its mission is to provide the community with safe
84
drinking water, on demand, and in sufficient quantity; and to remove and dispose of
wastewater and its by-products in an environmentally sound manner.
The City of Laredo Utilities Department pumps raw water from the Rio Grande River at
an average of 36.8 million gallons of water per day with an ultimate capacity of 65
million gallons, and complies with specific and strict treatment guidelines to produce
drinking water with the highest standards in water quality. In Laredo, there are 8 elevated
storage tanks and 23 ground storage tanks with a cumulative storage capacity of 41.3
million gallons. The number of miles of the water distribution system is 660.
The City of Laredo wastewater is collected by a network of pipes of 457 miles in length
and conveyed to 5 wastewater treatment plants with a total capacity of 21.2 MGD. The
wastewater treated and its discharge meets the Texas Water Quality Standards for the Rio
Grande River.
Our critical customers are Doctors Hospital, Laredo Medical Center, School Districts,
State Operations Center, Police and Fire Department, and Buildings serving as public
shelter or mass feeding facilities. Our customer base consisting of 52,284 residential
accounts and 7,198 commercial accounts serving over 200,000 constituents. The City of
Laredo main source of water is the Rio Grande River.
In order to respond to an emergency the Department identifies the following assets:
Storage tanks
Maintenance Crews
Additional equipment such as dump trucks (29), back hoes (19), vactor trucks (3),
front end loader (2), Drag line (1), Excavator (1), Fork lift (1), and Bob Cat
loaders (3).
Use of radios for communication
(4) Pumps of 1,700 gallons per minute
(2) generators with lights
Back filled materials
(2) TV camera trucks
Facilities equipped with surveillance system
Use of HAM operators and radios for communication
The following are the events that might affect our system as a result of an emergency:
Manhole saturation
Services suspended
Water and/or sewer breaks
Damages on equipment and facilities
Lack of ways of communication
85
Our vulnerable areas are subject to natural hazard events such as flood, hurricanes, severe
thunderstorms and tornadoes, drought/extreme heat, and erosion as well as human-caused
hazards like terrorism and hazardous materials (HAZMAT). The following are the
facilities that may be affected in the presence of any of the events above mentioned.
Booster stations
Lift stations
Storage facilities
Water & Wastewater Treatment plants
Distribution System
Office facilities
Contamination of water treatment plant
Contamination of elevated tanks
Contamination of ground storage tanks
Other Mitigation Strategies are listed below:
86
Goal objective Analysis Implementation
Mechanism
1.Protect the health, 1.1 Inform and educate the Ongoing initiative Continue to address
safety and public within civic
organizations,
welfare of the public about potential hazards the City of Laredo. homeowners
Distribution of "All
Hazards associations and local
Guide" will occur
annually business.
Explore funding options
in
order to provide
printed
material, media
coverage
and web site
information
1.2 Encourage homebuyers Flood zone Continue to provide
to information information
research and determine if and identification of through City
property flood Departments.
is located in a flood prone prone areas is Coordinate with local
area available to realtors
the public is in the provision of
available flood zone
through the Fire to home buyers.
Departments Office
of
Emergency
Management
Planning and Zoning
and
Building
Department.
1.3 Ensure new Sources for
development and Ongoing initiatives implementation:
redevelopment complies Local Comprehensive
with all within the COL plans/
applicable federal, state and ordinances, Land
local Development
Code, Storm water
regulations. Management
Plan and Flood Plain
Ordinances.
2. Promote hazard Develop Hazard Information
awareness and Library Coordinate with COL Disseminate the Hazard
Departments to Information Library to
education determine the
Public Library,
types of materials Homeowners
available to the Associations and
public. Business
Incorporate this Organizations. Include
information this
87
into a
comprehensive into the COL website.
Hazard Information
Library
2.2 Encourage homeowners Recommendations Continue to encourage
and are the
renters to purchase flood made during COL purchase of flood
insurance/ Fire insurance
renters contents insurance Department Office through presentations,
(for wind of printed
and flood) inside and Emergency material, media and
outside flood Management website.
Also, encourage
zones. presentations. insurance
companies to educate
all
occupants of dwelling
units
to purchase insurance.
2.3 Educate the public and Ongoing initiative by Continue to address
business COL. civic
about property protection Limited by staff organizations and local
measures availability business.
Explore funding options
and funding. in order
to develop education
materials.
2.4 Educate the public about Ongoing initiative by Continue to address
disaster COL civic
preparedness, evacuation Fire Department, organizations and local
procedures Building business.
and Health Dept. Explore funding options
and shelter availability. among in order
others. Limited by to develop education
staff materials.
availability and Provide website
funding. information.
2.5 Coordinate with COL Ongoing initiative by Continue to provide
Environmental COL City wide
and Solid Waste Department Environmental and educational
regarding Solid information to
an educational program for homeowners and
safe Waste Department. business
88
Section VIII
Annexes
Annex I: Emergency Management Plan (EMP) Summary………………
Annex II: EMP Hazard Mitigation Annex………
Annex III: Hazardous Cargo Community Risk Assessment
and Transportation Route Analysis ……………………
Annex IV: Storm Water Management Guide ……….
Annex V: City Water Conservation Plan and Ordinance………….
Annex VI: Land Development Code ……….
Annex VII: Public Involvement………..
Annex VIII: FEMA Flood Maps…………
Annex IX: Riverine Flood Maps……………..
Annex X: COL Pipeline Map …………
Annex XI: Local Hazard Analysis Maps ……
89