Severe Weather and Flood Risks
Key Questions
What weather threats are affecting Houston this week?
Scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected Monday and Tuesday, with a Weather Impact Alert warning of downpours that could cause street flooding and affect commutes. Gov. Greg Abbott has activated state emergency resources in response to the ongoing heavy rain and flash flood risks.
What changes are coming to FEMA flood maps in Harris County?
New FEMA flood maps could add thousands of properties to floodplains, and a virtual update is scheduled for June 23. Thousands of homes have already been removed from floodplains via fill dirt according to a Houston Chronicle investigation, though map changes do not guarantee safety.
Why is Harris County at risk of losing flood control funding?
The Texas GLO has warned the county could lose massive grants due to a February 2027 deadline, with only 4% of flood projects built so far and eight months remaining. A critical June 25 meeting is planned amid the resignation of the previous director.
Who is the new Harris County Flood Control District Director?
Marcus Stuckett has been appointed with over 20 years of experience, becoming the first African-American in the role and overseeing $320M in delayed projects. Garcia has criticized the rushed hiring process.
What is Friendswood proposing for its drainage improvements?
The city is evaluating a master drainage plan with five priority projects and a $50.9M bond proposal for the November ballot, showing 55% support in surveys. City Council discussed the plan on July 6 and gave a slim nod to a tax hike, with the outcome pending.
New heavy rain and flash flood threat Monday and Tuesday; Gov. Abbott activated state emergency resources. A new Weather Impact Alert warns of downpours leading to street flooding across Houston, affecting commutes. Flood control critical: New FEMA flood maps could add thousands to floodplains; virtual update June 23. Harris County flood control funding at risk; Texas GLO warns county likely to lose massive grants; February 2027 deadline. Bob Rehak warns only 4% of flood projects built with 8 months left; Petersen resigned; June 25 meeting critical. Marcus Stuckett appointed as new Harris County Flood Control District Director; 20+ years experience; first African-American; $320M in delayed projects. Garcia criticizes rushed hiring. Panel: 'fourth quarter, down three touchdowns'. Friendswood evaluating master drainage plan with five priority projects; $50.9M bond proposal for November ballot. Bond survey shows 55% support; City Council discussed July 6; work session on drainage plan. Friendswood City Council gave slim tax-hike nod; bond showdown looms; July 6 meeting decides bond propositions and election timing (outcome pending). Houston Chronicle investigation reveals thousands of Harris County homes removed from FEMA floodplains via fill dirt, underscoring map changes don't guarantee safety.