18 May 2020

Texas Flood Awareness Week 2020

The Governor has declared May 18 – 22, 2020 as "Texas Flood Awareness Week." Texas Flood Awareness Week (TxFAW) brings awareness to the citizens of Texas of the dangers that flooding can present. Flash flooding is the number one weather-related killer in Texas with more than 50% of all flash flood fatalities nationwide involving vehicles. Flooding in Texas is a consistent threat to people and properties. Flash floods are often unpredictable, the public should recognize flood hazards in areas they frequently visit.

At EHRA Engineering, the Hydrology & Hydraulics (H&H) Team uses historical data from the Harris County Flood Warning System to create models that simulate the resulting water levels for our clients. From this information, our clients can take the necessary steps to plan flood mitigation strategies such as detention basins, bypass channels, or channel improvements to help alleviate flooding issues. The Harris County Flood Warning System measures rainfall amounts and monitors water levels on a real-time basis throughout Harris County and into some of the surrounding counties.

Flood mitigation is a central issue for the Gulf Coast region. EHRA Engineering has a remarkable team with expertise in performing hydrologic and hydraulic analyses for a variety of projects. Hydraulics & Hydrology services provided by EHRA Engineering include: 2D analysis, flood plain mapping, bridge and culvert hydraulics, riverine hydraulics, scour analysis, regional and local storm water impact and mitigation analysis, urban storm water management and master planning.

What is a flash flood? Take action! A Flash Flood is flooding that occurs when it rains rapidly on saturated soil or dry soil that has poor absorption ability. These conditions worsen considerably in periods of drought.  It may be caused by heavy rain associated with a severe thunderstormhurricane, or tropical storm. Flash flooding occurs quickly and catches most people off guard.

What is a flood watch? Be prepared! A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

What is a flood warning? Take action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather is imminent or already happening.

Safety Tips:

  • Buy flood insurance – It’s a small price to pay for the comfort of knowing you’re covered. Flooding can occur anywhere, it depends on how fast the rain falls.
  • Turn around, don’t drown.®

Click here to see a copy of the Flood Awareness Declaration signed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott.