A new survey shows power outages are Harris County’s top summer storm concern, with many doubting the grid is ready for another major hit.
HOUSTON — A new University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs survey reveals that power outages top the list of summer weather concerns for Harris County residents — and many aren’t convinced the electrical grid is ready for the next big storm.
The poll of 2,300 registered voters, conducted July 9–18, found that 69% are worried about losing electricity for more than a day during the summer, with 42% “very worried” and 27% “moderately worried.”
High winds came in second on the list of concerns, with 54% very or moderately worried about potential damage to their homes. Flooding ranked lowest, but still significant, with 44% expressing serious concern — a number that rose above 50% among Latino and Black residents, younger adults, and those without a college degree.
The survey also found notable differences by political affiliation. Democrats (79%) were more likely than Republicans (56%) to worry about extended power outages.
When asked about CenterPoint’s progress in hardening the electrical grid after last year’s outages during Hurricane Beryl and a powerful derecho, only 7% said the company has made “a great deal” of progress, while 44% said “a little bit” and 26% said “none at all.”
Public perception of the utility is largely negative — 63% hold an unfavorable opinion of CenterPoint, compared to 33% with a favorable view.
The study’s authors note that while flooding ranked lowest in overall concern, the numbers reveal stark disparities among demographic groups, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in different parts of Harris County.
The full report, Harris County 2025: Weather Threats, is part of a larger research project examining local issues and public opinion.