Flood Barrier USA

Winter Flooding in Houston

Author: Donna Conneely

January is not normally a month associated with flooding, even in flood-prone Houston, Texas. But this year the flood season started early with severe inundation that caused widespread misery and damage. The flooding was caused by unusually heavy rains that overwhelmed flood control systems and left thousands without power.

In some areas, more than six inches of rain fell in one 24-hour period, smashing the previous record of under 3 inches. Most of the rain fell during one 12-hour period, leading to dangerous flash floods that closed roadways, threatened vehicular traffic, and inundated homes and businesses.

Adding to the the catastrophe was a suspected tornado, which destroyed several homes and terrified homeowners who were sheltering inside. Roofs were ripped off homes, doors and windows were smashed in, and walls were collapsed by the powerful winds. The Mall of the Mainland was left with damaged walls and roofing after the suspected twister passed close by. There were no injuries at the Mall, but it was evacuated and closed due to safety concerns.

Ironically, the Houston area has been struggling through record-breaking droughts that have decimated livestock and shriveled crops. During the storm, the parched, hard-packed ground was unable to absorb the torrential downpour, and a wall of water raged through the city. Although many in the area have been praying for precipitation, this rain arrived too quickly and left too quickly to help with the drought. The rainfall — although considerable — was not enough to replenish rivers and reservoirs.

The flooding left many residents worried about what could happen in the event of a hurricane that strikes directly at the city. Some fear a Katrina-like disaster that would all but destroy Houston. Memories of Katrina are still fresh, and this week’s flooding points out the vulnerability of the city. Flood panels and other flood protection measures are on the minds of many as homeowners and business owners mop up after this devastating winter storm.

This entry was posted on Monday, January 16th, 2012 at 11:01 pm and is filed under Flood Protection. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.