A Flash Flood event is currently underway in southeast Texas. Harris County residents should expect continued heavy rainfall impacts through Wednesday, with additional watches and warnings likely to occur.
Residents are urged to continue taking protective measures to ensure their safety. As many roadways remain flooded, the smart choice is to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. It is much harder to see the depths of floodwaters at night.
Likewise, if your home has taken in water, STAY WHERE YOU ARE. You are far safer at home than trying to walk though flooded roads or open spaces. Once darkness falls, it will be impossible to see danger from deep water, wildlife, and debris. Call 9-1-1 only if you believe you are in danger.
RAINFALL
Areas of southern and southwest Harris County have seen 6-9 inches of rainfall. Additional heavy rainfall will continue tonight and into tomorrow. Forecasts for an additional 4-6 inches of rain, with isolated amounts of 8 inches are possible. Bayou and creek flooding are occurring and may get worse. Live rainfall rates can be viewed on the Harris County Flood Warning System website.
FLOODING
Street flooding and flash flooding are occurring across the region. If you must travel, check Houston TranStar’s and TxDOT’s live traffic maps for flooded roadways. Structure flooding may also be possible in areas where large amounts of rain occur over a short period.
What you need to do:
Residents are encouraged to monitor the forecast, road conditions and have multiple ways to receive alerts. Monitor bayou and creek levels near your home and business at harriscountyfws.org.
People should bring their pets inside and delay travel or outdoor activities during periods of heavy rainfall. If travel is unavoidable, reduce your speed to avoid hydroplaning. If a Flash Flood Warning is issued for your area, DO NOT TRAVEL.
If you experience flooding at your home, please fill out our Home Flooding Survey to help us assess damage across the region.
AVOID TRAVEL
- If you do not need to be on the roadways tonight, please STAY PUT. Floodwater is much harder to see at night.
- If you must travel:
- Give yourself extra braking distance, slow down and make sure your headlights are on during rainy weather.
- Never drive into high water and use extreme caution at underpasses and low-lying areas where water accumulates.
- Always remember to Turn Around, Don’t Drown! DO NOT DRIVE through high water and DO NOT DRIVE AROUND BARRICADES.
- Just two feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
FLOODING PRECAUTIONS
- Do not walk or play in floodwaters. There may be harmful debris, chemicals or animals in the water.
- If water gets into your home, stay where you are. It will be safer than driving or walking into flood waters.
STAY INFORMED
- Listen to and follow instructions from local officials.
- Monitor the forecast regularly as the system continues to change.
- Check driving conditions before getting on roadways at: www.houstontranstar.org and www.drivetexas.org
- View live rainfall rates on the Harris County Flood Warning System Website: www.harriscountyfws.org.
- Have multiple ways to receive alerts and keep your phone charged and on overnight in case of important weather updates.
- Get updates from trusted sources such as:National Weather Service Houston-Galveston, Harris County Flood Control District, and ReadyHarris.
Text BETA to 888777 receive tropical weather updates.
Where you can learn more:
- Local Forecast: NWS Forecast Office Houston/Galveston, TX