Blanco, Texas Weather is Here to Stay Whether You're Ready or Not
You know what they say about Texas weather...
If you don't like it, just wait 10 minutes.
The weather in Blanco isn't much different, except maybe more so. The unusual almost seems ordinary around here.
A beautiful, balmy, Summer day can quickly turn into a stormy one. Wind, rain, sometimes hail, comes up suddenly at times (luckily tornadoes are pretty rare).
When I first moved here, it didn't take me long to learn to carry an umbrella in my truck. And if I wasn't planning to be home by dark, I'd take a jacket or sweater, even in the summertime. You just never know what that old Texas weather might have in store.
The weather people call Blanco, Texas a "fragile environment." That seems to translate as either drought or deluge.
In truth, I believe there's a lot more pleasant weather than the nasty sort. But those extra-hot days sure make you appreciate the local swimmin' holes (and entertain thoughts of snow).
Blanco, Texas weather ranges from below zero with possible ice storms in the Winter (pretty rare), to dry and hot in the summer (we had an all-time record temperature of 107° in 2005).
We can go for 3 or 4 months without rain, and then have a hurricane drop 25 or 30 inches. Meaning, there WILL be some flooding (Central Texas weather is nothing if not versatile).
But don't let the weather discourage you. Just make sure you're prepared for it.
Carry an umbrella in your vehicle, or rain gear in your backpack if you're on foot or a two-wheeler.
Check the local weather forecast before you leave home. A friend of mine once said he was going to get the Weather Bureau a window for Christmas. But the weather service really is pretty close most of the time.
In the Fall, Winter, and Spring, wear layers of clothing, so you can peel if you need to.
In the Spring, Summer, and Fall, take your swimsuit along with your umbrella. You never know when you might have a chance to cool off in the river.
In the Winter, carry a blanket, and maybe even a bag of sharp sand in the trunk of your car. The weight might help with traction, or you might need the sand under your tires in the event of icy roads.
If you're thinking about building a house in Blanco County, for gosh sakes, build on high ground. Don't think that you're the one who can pile dirt on a low piece of riverfront property, and come through the Blanco River Tidal Wave dry and cozy. Remember, they even had to move the town because of flooding.
When you build, use an energy-efficient design and building materials. Take advantage of established trees for shade and protection from the north wind. Predominant Summer breezes (southeast to southwest) can cool your home if you plan it right.
And THE most important tip for surviving the Texas weather:
