Houston Area Officials: Be on Alert for Severe Afternoon Weather

The potential for severe weather in the Houston area this afternoon has prompted precautions to be issued by the Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Today’s afternoon commute could be affected – as could homes in areas prone to high water.

The National Weather Service says widespread rainfall amounts of 1-2 inches are possible through the early evening.

“Residents are encouraged to monitor local media for weather information before heading out this afternoon,” the Harris County OHSEM says in a public alert issued late Tuesday morning. “In the event of street flooding, remember, ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown.’Driving through high water or around barricades on flooded roadways or underpasses can lead to death.”

OHSEM offers these basic flood safety tips:

--Don’t drive through water that’s high or, worse, of unknown depth.

--Don’t drive through barricades. Just two feet of water can sweep a vehicle away.

--Don’t walk through flood waters. Six inches of moving water can knock you down – and water of any depth may contain hazards.

--If your home floods, stay there. You’re safer at home than trying to navigate flooded streets on foot.

--If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. However, do not leave your car to enter moving water.

--Avoid from streams, rivers and creeks during heavy rainfall – they can flood quickly and with little warning.

--Move important items -- especially important documents like insurance policies -- to the highest possible floor. This will help protect them from flood damage.

--Disconnect appliances and do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. You could be electrocuted.


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