The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) is monitoring extremely heavy rainfall entering the area this evening and continuing into Thursday.
Very strong storms with high hourly rainfall rates will cause street flooding and rise along rivers, streams, and bayous. Structure flooding is possible in low-lying, flood-prone areas. Rainfall totals through Thursday will range from 4-8 inches across the county with some areas receiving 10 or more inches. High winds, hail, and tornadoes are also possible.
This is a potentially life-threatening situation. A Flash Flood Watch is already in effect through Thursday morning. The National Weather Service will issue additional watches and warnings over the next two days. Residents should be prepared to act on short notice in the event the most severe impacts occur. You should monitor local frequently media for weather forecast updates. Information on bayou conditions is available in real-time at the Harris County Flood Control District Flood Warning System.
The best protective action is to stay home and off the roads once rains begin. If you must drive, remember: Turn Around Don’t Drown! Never drive into or through flooded roads. This is the number one cause of death in flood events. Check the Houston TranStar live traffic map for information on road conditions and flooded main lanes in the region.
HCOHSEM will provide updates via our social media channels throughout the event. ReadyHarris Alerts will be issued as needed.