Severe Weather Potential Beginning Sunday

February 17, 2017

What is the danger?

There’s a potential for severe weather in Harris County starting as early as Sunday and continuing into next week. According to the National Weather Service <http://www.weather.gov/hgx/>  (NWS), widespread rainfall amounts of 2-3 inches are possible, with isolated areas receiving up to 6 inches. High hourly rainfall rates could lead to flash flooding.

What you should do:

Residents are encouraged to monitor local media for weather information, particularly before heading out on Monday morning. In the event of street flooding, remember “Turn Around, Don’t Drown <http://tadd.weather.gov/> .” Driving through high water or around barricades on flooded roadways or underpasses can lead to death!

Basic Flood Safety Tips

*     Turn Around, Don’t Drown! ® DO NOT DRIVE through high water and DO NOT DRIVE AROUND BARRICADES! Just 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.

*     DO NOT WALK through flood waters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down.

*     If your home floods, STAY THERE. You are safer at home than trying to navigate flooded streets on foot.

*     If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is NOT MOVING, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter MOVING water.

*     STAY AWAY from streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

*     MOVE important items – especially important documents like insurance policies – to the highest possible floor. This will help protect them from flood damage.

*     DISCONNECT electrical appliances and do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. You could be electrocuted.

Where you can learn more:

Forecasts: National Weather Service <http://www.weather.;gov/hgx>

Local Traffic: Houston TranStar <http://www.houstontranstar.com/>

Preparedness & Emergency Information: www.readyharris.org <http://www.readyharris.org/>

Twitter: @ReadyHarris <http://www.twitter.com/readyharris>      Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/ReadyHarris/>      Mobile App: http://readydl.com/ready-harris