Heavy rains have caused significant flooding in the Houston area, leading to the rescue of more than 400 people from homes, rooftops, and roads engulfed in water. Game wardens in East Texas have been using airboats to rescue residents and pets who did not evacuate in time. A flood watch remains in effect as forecasters predict more rainfall and the likelihood of major flooding. Residents are preparing for the worst as waters continue to rise in many neighborhoods.
Residents in low-lying areas have been asked to evacuate as the region braces for more rain on Sunday. The National Weather Service is expecting up to 3 inches of additional rain with some isolated areas receiving up to 5 inches. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has warned that if the rain continues, it could pose significant problems. The ongoing rain has left parts of Texas drenched, with residents trapped in their homes as floodwaters continue to rise. The area is expecting more rainfall in the coming days.
Parts of southeastern Texas, particularly near Houston, have experienced extreme rainfall, with over 21 inches falling in a five-day period in Liberty County. Several people, including pets, have been rescued from flooded homes in counties across the region, with a significant number of water rescues taking place. Houston, being one of the most flood-prone metro areas in the US, has not reported any deaths or injuries as a result of the flooding. Hurricane Harvey in 2017 brought historic rainfall to the region, causing widespread damage and thousands of rescues.
Officials in Houston are closely monitoring the San Jacinto River, which is expected to continue rising as more rain falls and extra water is released from a full reservoir. Mandatory evacuations have been issued for areas along the river, with concerns about potential flooding. While most of Houston has not been heavily impacted by the weather, the city experienced about four months’ worth of rain in just a week. The city’s system of bayous and reservoirs, designed nearly 100 years ago, struggles to keep up with larger storms and the city’s growth.
The greater Houston area covers about 10,000 square miles and features a complex system of water drainage channels that lead into the Gulf of Mexico. The city’s infrastructure, built to handle heavy rains, has faced challenges in recent years with larger storms and increased development. The community is working to address the ongoing flooding issues and improve resilience in the face of extreme weather events. The area will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to residents affected by the flooding.
