As of April 30, 2024, the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) is actively monitoring an impending major flood threat along the East Fork of the San Jacinto River, affecting parts of southeast Montgomery and northeast Harris Counties. This alert comes following significant rises in water levels observed earlier today in Cleveland, with a swift surge progressing downstream into Plum Grove and the FM 1485 area.

Residents in these areas are urged to stay vigilant as the river is expected to rise an additional 10 to 15 feet by tonight, potentially leading to significant and widespread inundation by Wednesday morning. This situation mirrors the challenges faced during Tropical Storm Imelda in 2019, prompting local authorities to issue early warnings and preparedness advisories.

Areas projected to experience extensive flooding include:

-Roadways: Numerous streets across Harris County, particularly south of FM 1485 including Spalding, Green, Jett, and Casey, are expected to face substantial flooding making them impassable.

- Residential Areas: Homes in the Idle Glen Subdivision and Northwood Country Estates, although mostly elevated, might become inaccessible due to street flooding. The River Terrace and Cypress Point areas are also at heightened risk, with streets close to the river like Blue Lake, Oak Knoll, Wild Oak, and Birchwood expected to flood.

- Kingwood Area: Flooding is likely in low-lying areas near the river, affecting primarily non-developed lands and backyards with bulkheads. However, structural flooding is not anticipated in this region.

Given the scale of the expected flooding, HCFCD has rolled out several resources and guidelines to help residents prepare and respond effectively:

- Stay Informed: Residents are encouraged to monitor real-time updates on rainfall and bayou water levels via the Harris County Regional Flood Warning System's website at www.harriscountyfws.org, accessible on both desktop and mobile devices. For direct alerts, residents can sign up at www.fwsalerts.org to receive notifications through text or email.

- Storm Preparedness: Comprehensive information and resources can be found at hcfcd.org/stormready, offering tips on how to prepare for severe weather conditions.

- Proper Waste Management: It's crucial to avoid disposing of debris in bayous, streams, and ditches as this can exacerbate flooding. Residents should use designated trash bins and store them properly.

- Flood Insurance: Residents are reminded to verify their flood insurance coverage, noting that new policies usually take 30 days to activate.

The HCFCD's Flood Watch team continues to closely monitor the situation and coordinate with local emergency services to ensure the safety and preparedness of affected communities. As this weather event unfolds, staying informed and prepared is paramount for all residents in the impact zones.

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