NORTH CHANNEL – During this past weekend rainstorms and tornadoes struck the Houston area. East and Northeast Harris County were particularly hard hit by rainfall where up to 13 inches fell in some neighborhoods. In the greater Houston area, six tornadoes were reported from Freeport to Highlands.
In Jacinto City, and along the East Freeway near Federal Road, high water caused closing of frontage roads. No deaths or serious injuries were reported, but a great deal of property damage from flooding was sustained.
There have been reports of flooded homes in Highlands and Channelview near the San Jacinto River, in Crosby and in Cloverleaf near Carpenters Bayou.
There have been reports of structural damages due to high winds from tornadoes that touched down in areas including Pasadena, La Porte, Highlands and Friendswood. White’s Cemetery in Highlands took a major blow from a EF-0 tornado, toppling trees and tombstones, tearing up lawns and bringing down power lines. Sheriff ’s deputies had to close FM2100 through Barrett Station for most of Saturday afternoon and evening.
REPORT FLOODING/ DAMAGES
It is not too late to report damages to your home or property. Below are resources and contact information for residents affected by flooding and wind damage.
• Affected Harris County residents are urged to report house flooding by completing a Flood Survey as soon as possible at the Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s website at www.ready harris.org/go/survey/1829/ 11787/
• The Harris County Flood Control District is also available to take flooding reports at 713-684-4000 from 7:30 am 4:30 pm.
• If you live in the City of Houston city limits, you can also report flooding to the 3-11 phone system.
• The City of Galena Park is urging residents to report flooded structures to 713-674-8424 or Flood@jacintocitytx.gov
• East-side residents who live in unincorporated Harris County who need assistance can also contact Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Jack Morman’s office at 713455-8104 (regular operating hours) or 713-274-2050 (after hours). Precinct 2’s website is www.hcp2.com
SHELTER/DISASTER RELIEF AID
The American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region has set up a shelter for anyone impacted by severe weather and flooding. Volunteers are at the shelter to assess needs and offer support at Channelview High School, 1100 Sheldon Road, Channelview, TX 77530. 713-526-8300.
REMINDER: When faced with a flooding situation: STAY PUT wherever you are, unless your life is threatened or you are ordered to evacuate and do not drive or walk into high water areas.