How to Track Floods in Houston with the Free Harris County Flood Warning System

Harris County Flood Warning System Overview

• 💡 The Harris County Flood Warning System is a free tool designed to keep residents safer by tracking rising water and heavy rain in real time.
• 📍 The system features gauges across Harris County and the region, displaying real-time rainfall rates, which users can zoom into to find the gauge closest to their home.
• 📊 Users can sign up for alerts from specific gauges via text message or email to receive real-time notifications about heavy rainfall or flooding risks.

Understanding Flood Status and Rainfall Data

• ⚠️ The system also shows channel status, with green indicating no likely flooding, and yellow/red (flooding plausible/likely) signaling water coming out of banks and real risk.
• 📈 Users can view rainfall data for the last 24 hours, or from 15 minutes up to the last year, to understand current and historical conditions.
• 💧 The intensity of rainfall, not just the total amount, is crucial; significant rain in a short period (e.g., 15 minutes) warrants attention to road conditions and potential risks.

Safety and Preparedness in Houston

• 🚗 During heavy rain events, it is often safer to stay put rather than being on the roads, which presents the highest risk.
• 🏠 Residents are encouraged to find the gauge nearest their home, sign up for alerts, and use the data to make informed decisions for their safety and their family's.
• 📢 It is also recommended to listen to county and city officials for guidance and visit readyharris.org for more information and to sign up for alerts.

Ongoing Flood Mitigation Efforts

• 🏗️ The Harris County Flood Control District has completed approximately 200 flood mitigation projects and has another 200 ongoing, supported by a significant bond program.
• 🌊 The district also works on robust systems like the bayou system to help mitigate flooding in the area.