Flooding & Other Hazards
Basic Foul Weather Rules
Houston experiences regular flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Tune in to your local TV or radio stations for frequent updates of road conditions. During such occurrences, do not drive unless it is absolutely necessary. Keep your gasoline tank full. If you must drive, take extra care on roads with high water and try to remain on familiar streets, so you know where the road ends and the ditch begins. If you can't judge the depth of water, don't drive through it. Underpasses pose a particular danger and should be negotiated with extreme caution.
If your car is surrounded by high water and you feel it sinking, open the windows as soon as possible, since pressure almost always prevents doors from opening. If you can't open the windows, try your best to break them. Remember that cars with the engine in front sink nose first, so work on the back windows first and don't forget that your car is replaceable, you are not.
If visibility is severely diminished, pull over to the side of the road, apply the emergency brake and put on the flashers.
If possible, stay indoors and seek safety in an elevated area. If you must go outside, whether you are walking or driving, watch for fallen trees, sharp branches and dangerous debris hidden under water. If you see fallen power lines, maintain a safe distance from them, as they can be deadly. Avoid patches of brush and grass, for they can harbor snakes and other pests.
Rice/TMC Flood Alert System
The flood alert system monitors and updates rainfall and projects flooding and other problems along the Brays Bayou watershed (drains 128 square miles).
Additional Weather Notes
Christmas 1989 reminded Houstonians that most structures in the area were not built for prolonged periods of subfreezing temperatures. Most water pipes are insufficiently insulated and can easily freeze, so care must be taken to protect both exposed pipes and indoor pipes, most of which are located in attics. Know where to turn off your water and have storage containers available if draining the pipes becomes necessary.
713-792-RING (MDACC)
Line to use for inclement weather. For instructions on whether or not to report to work. Always call