Rains continue to fall over saturated parts of Southeast Texas, drivers encouraged to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Days of repetitive rainfall have led to numerous flood watches and warnings across the region and more is in the forecast this week.
Sunday’s strong storms over southeastern Walker County led to major rises on several area waterways and Lake Conroe. Bedias Creek resembled a large lake near I-45 and two different drivers attempting to avoid freeway congestion found themselves flooded out on the northbound feeder road near FM 2989.
Firefighters from Crabb’s Prairie, Huntsville, and New Waverly responded with rescue boats and high water rescue trucks, along with Walker County EMS and Sheriff’s Deputies. Rescue swimmers were able to reach the flooded vehicles and escort the occupants to dry ground.
Later Sunday evening, New Waverly Firefighters entered Plum Creek off FM 1374 and rescued another driver who had attempted to cross floodwaters across Dipping Vat Rd.
Stream flows on Sandy Creek and the San Jacinto River increased tenfold Sunday night, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Flood Warning for the area.
Heavy rainfall on the Waller Prairie west of Montgomery County led to a major rise on Lake Creek Monday morning, prompting more evacuations.
Montgomery County Emergency Personnel and a Texas A&M Water Rescue Task Force Team worked together to rescue residents and their animals, including 60 goats and a number of horses.
What to expect now?
More rain is in the forecast through the middle of the week and most area waterways are already at or near flood stage. Residents in low lying areas are urged to remain weather aware and be ready to evacuate if necessary.
The San Jacinto River Authority website tracks current water levels and stream flows and the National Weather Service issues flood alerts that are then shared on emergency management websites in Walker and Montgomery Counties.
Most flood fatalities occur in vehicles. If you encounter water over the roadway, remember to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!”
New Waverly 