Southeast Texas residents are still dealing with the aftermath of severe flooding, which has caused extensive damage to communities, resulted in school closures, and prompted both mandatory and voluntary evacuations.
On Friday, Governor Greg Abbott took a significant step to address the potential risks associated with severe weather and flooding by expanding the state’s disaster declaration. The expansion now encompasses a total of 88 counties, which are considered at-risk areas. This proactive measure aims to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents in these regions.
“In order to ensure the safety and well-being of Texans and their communities amidst the ongoing severe weather and flooding conditions, I have taken the necessary step of expanding the disaster declaration to include 59 additional counties,” expressed Abbott. He emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and informed about the weather conditions for individuals residing in at-risk areas. Furthermore, he advised following the guidance provided by state and local officials, while also urging people to avoid traveling through hazardous flood conditions. Abbott assured that the State of Texas is actively collaborating with emergency management and local authorities to allocate any required additional resources for continuous support and protection of fellow Texans.”
According to the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms pose a heightened risk to all parts of the state, with the potential for heavy rainfall that could result in flash flooding. The NWS has predicted that Central and East Texas river basins will experience extreme flooding.
Severe weather is predicted to affect significant river basins in the coming week, leading to an ongoing risk of river flooding. The governor’s office has clarified that the high volume of water being released from lakes and reservoirs will contribute to extensive flooding in downstream rivers and tributaries. Residents residing below reservoirs and along river systems are strongly advised to pay attention to the warnings issued by local emergency management officials.
Severe weather threats encompass a range of hazards, including the potential for large hail, destructive winds, and even the formation of tornadoes.
State responders were actively involved in conducting multiple high-water rescues in Central and Southeast Texas during the night of Thursday. This was in response to the severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and power outages that affected various areas in southeast Texas. Additionally, state transportation and law enforcement personnel are currently providing assistance in terms of road closures and sandbagging efforts. As a result of the adverse weather conditions, several school districts have had to modify their schedules, with some even closing earlier in the week.
Texans are being advised by the governor’s office to stay updated on local forecasts, create an emergency plan, and comply with the instructions given by emergency response officials. In light of this, emergency management personnel are emphasizing the importance of never attempting to drive or walk through flooded roads and avoiding any attempts to bypass barricaded roadways. The well-known phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” serves as a reminder to prioritize safety when encountering such situations.
Video footage captured in southeast Texas paints a devastating picture of the aftermath of the recent floods. From Livingston to Shepherd, and even New Caney, the water levels have risen to such an extent that they now reach or surpass the roofs of numerous homes. The floods have also caused significant damage to highways and roads, rendering them completely impassable. Tragically, some residents find themselves trapped in their vehicles, desperately seeking a way to safety.
The Weather Channel recently shared a new video showcasing the devastating floods in Livingston, Texas. The video, which was posted on Twitter, highlights the extent of the flooding and the impact it is having on the local community. The footage serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of natural disasters and the importance of being prepared for such events.
On Friday, Jimmy Patronis, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer and Fire Marshal, announced that multiple agencies were offering support to Texas. Florida is sending 43 members of the Urban Search and Rescue Task Force to assist in saving individuals who are trapped due to severe flooding. This team, equipped with water capabilities, will play a crucial role in the rescue efforts. They will diligently go from door to door in the affected region to ensure the safe rescue of residents.
During hurricane season, Florida and Texas frequently offer mutual aid to each other. As an example, after Hurricane Ian hit Southwest Florida, Texas extended support to aid Florida’s first responders in their recovery efforts. Now, Florida takes pride in reciprocating the assistance.
During a press briefing on Friday, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “This is not your typical river flooding. It is much worse. We are facing a catastrophic event, and it is imperative that we all take immediate and necessary actions to address it.”
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and his team of deputies displayed their bravery as they successfully rescued a total of 11 adults and 9 children from a mandatory evacuation area. Their efforts continued to bear fruit throughout the day, with a remarkable total of 39 people and 13 animals being saved by 4 p.m.
According to KHOU 11 News, the San Jacinto River Authority has reported that the northern area of Lake Conroe experienced over 20 inches of rainfall in the past week. As a result, the lake’s water level has risen to 204 feet, marking its third-highest level on record.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire issued a stern warning to the residents of Kingwood, urging them to evacuate without delay. Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, he urged them not to wait until it became too late, as it would put the lives of the first responders at risk.
State Representative Charles Cunningham, whose district encompasses Kingwood, expressed that the region was inundated with approximately four months’ worth of rainfall within a single week. He drew parallels to the catastrophic flooding unleashed by Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
Nearly 8,000 customers of Entergy Texas are currently experiencing power outages due to severe thunderstorms in southeast Texas. On the other hand, CenterPoint has successfully restored power to over 96,000 customers.
In central Texas, approximately 150 miles west of Fort Worth, devastating tornadoes wreaked havoc. One particular tornado barreled through the small town of Hawley, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. At least 30 homes were completely demolished by the powerful force of nature.
According to KWTX News, a family was reportedly saved by a storm chaser when their 7-year-old son got caught up in a tornado. The young boy was swept 25 feet into the air and miraculously landed on top of insulation, escaping with his life.
“We are incredibly grateful to be alive,” his mother expressed to KWTX. “It’s truly a miraculous event. The impact was so severe that we shouldn’t have been able to walk away.”