When Hell Froze Over in Texas: Evaluating State and Local Responses To Winter Storm Uri in February 2021 Through Adaptive Governance and Disaster Management Frameworks
Publication Date
8-2-2025
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Public Organization Review
DOI
10.1007/s11115-025-00880-7
Abstract
This case study analyzes the response to Winter Storm Uri through the lens of adaptive governance, examining how Texas and the City of San Antonio navigated the disaster across mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery phases. Drawing from document analysis and interviews, the study identifies key challenges in representation, decision-making, public communication, and cross-sector coordination. Despite systemic weaknesses, the crisis prompted innovative responses and institutional learning. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated, inclusive, and flexible governance structures to prepare for future climate-related disasters. Adaptive governance emerges not as a theory, but as a practical necessity for disaster management.
Keywords
Adaptive governance, Disaster management, Winter storm Uri, State and local governments, Lessons learned
Department
Political Science
Recommended Citation
Leonard L. Lira, Charles Mazuca, Madison Matlock, and Jason Perez. "When Hell Froze Over in Texas: Evaluating State and Local Responses To Winter Storm Uri in February 2021 Through Adaptive Governance and Disaster Management Frameworks" Public Organization Review (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11115-025-00880-7
