Residents of Houston should stay vigilant as the ABC13 Weather Team has issued a Weather Watch for the area due to expected heavy rain through Saturday. Following earlier downpours that have already delivered 1 to 2 inches of rainfall this week, the saturated ground means that any additional rain will likely lead to runoff, which increases the risk of flooding in many areas.
Particular caution should be taken in low-lying areas prone to flooding. Underpasses and frontage roads are especially vulnerable this week, as just 10 inches of rain can stall vehicles and a foot can cause most cars to float. The water depth can often be deceiving, so motorists should exercise extreme caution.
Flash flooding can also occur near rivers, creeks, and streams, especially when intense storms roll through. Rainfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour may trigger Flood Advisories or Flash Flood Warnings, signaling the need for immediate safety measures such as seeking higher ground.
On a positive note, lighter intervals between rain showers are expected, providing time for water drainage through local river and bayou systems. Fortunately, there is no anticipation of prolonged or significant flooding in these waterways.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions to ensure their safety during this stormy period.