4:45 p.m. Update: Parts of Harris, Brazoria, Fort Bend, and Waller counties are under a flash flood warning until at least 6:15 p.m. This includes downtown Houston, Pasadena, Sugar Land, and several surrounding areas. Between 2 and 3 inches of rain has already fallen, with another 1 to 2 inches expected in the next couple of hours.
The National Weather Service warns of possible flash flooding in small creeks, urban areas, and other low-lying spots. Travel is not recommended right now. If you must drive, avoid flooded roads.
Rain is likely to continue until about 6:30 p.m. After that, the weather should dry out for the evening.
Across the Houston area, the risk of flooding is pronounced. The National Weather Service expanded a flood watch for Southeast Texas, anticipating 2 to 4 inches of rain, with some areas possibly getting over 6 inches through the Memorial Day weekend.
Soils are already saturated due to recent downpours. This means heavier rain can quickly lead to street flooding. Reports state many areas have seen between 1 and 3 inches of rain since Tuesday, exacerbating the risk.
While Saturday might start with some scattered showers, expect more serious storms by the afternoon. The National Weather Service predicts elevated storm chances between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. This could result in flash flooding, particularly where drainage is poor.
Houston will face a level 2 out of 4 risk, translating to at least a 15% chance of excessive rainfall causing flooding. Prepare for potential flooding, especially if you have outdoor plans. Identify nearby shelters in advance and keep your phone charged for weather alerts.
As storms approach, prioritize safety: head indoors at the first sound of thunder and avoid areas like open fields or metal bleachers. Remember, even after storms pass, lightning and flooded roadways can pose risks.
In recent years, Houston has experienced notable flooding events. In 2017, Hurricane Harvey dropped more than 50 inches of rain in some areas. Such historical context highlights the importance of heeding warnings during wet conditions. Understand the risks, and make safety your priority.
Stay tuned to local weather reports for the latest updates. For comprehensive information about storm preparedness, visit the National Weather Service.
