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Houston and its surrounding areas faced significant flooding on Saturday due to heavy rains, prompting over 400 rescues as homes, rooftops, and roads became submerged. In response, some residents prepared to evacuate their properties.
The flooding extended from Houston to rural East Texas, leading to dramatic rescue efforts by game wardens using airboats in waist-high waters to save people and pets who were unable to evacuate in time. One such rescue involved a family and their three dogs, rescued as floodwaters surrounded their home and vehicles.
A flood watch remained in effect until Sunday afternoon, with forecasters warning of additional rainfall and the likelihood of major flooding.
Residents, like Miguel Flores Jr. of northeast Houston’s Kingwood neighborhood, braced themselves for further rising waters, uncertain of the extent of the flooding. Meanwhile, Aron and Jamie Brown monitored the situation near a flooded intersection close to the San Jacinto River, noting the encroaching waters but feeling relatively secure due to their home’s elevated position.
The severe storms on Friday prompted numerous high-water rescues, with officials urging residents in low-lying areas to evacuate as the situation worsened. The National Weather Service forecasted another round of heavy rainfall late Saturday into Sunday, heightening concerns about further flooding.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo emphasized the potential challenges posed by additional rainfall, particularly on Sunday, given the ongoing saturated conditions.
The persistent rain has left parts of Texas inundated, trapping residents and necessitating rescue efforts. For example, Miguel Flores Sr. found himself evacuating his property in Kingwood as floodwaters rapidly rose, submerging his backyard and threatening his home.
The greater Houston area, known for its susceptibility to flooding, faces familiar challenges as it copes with the aftermath of these severe weather events. The city’s extensive system of bayous and reservoirs, designed decades ago, continues to struggle to manage the increased rainfall and urban growth.