Tropical System Expected to Impact Houston | Take Steps to Prepare

The City of Houston is monitoring the potential for the formation of a tropical depression or storm that may begin impacting the city Monday evening.

A low pressure system has formed near the Yucatan peninsula, and the National Hurricane Center has indicated that the potential track includes the greater Houston area.

The main threats from this storm system will be very heavy rain, and the possibility of tropical-storm force winds and tornadoes.  Based on current forecasts, the City of Houston can expect impacts to begin Monday evening and continue for the next few days.

Houstonians should begin preparing now for the potential of heavy rain, wind and power outages as this system begins tracking towards the city. Begin taking the following steps to be prepared for this storm:

• Gather supplies to be able to comfortably be in your home for 3-5 days. This includes water, food, flashlights, and other necessities.  Download a full list from the City of Houston Disaster Preparedness Guide.
• Begin removing outdoor items which may be picked up in heavy wind and securing them as appropriate
• Make sure you have a way to stay informed in the event power goes out.  This may include a NOAA Weather Radio, or a battery-powered radio or television.
• Communicate with your family about what you will do in the event heavy rain separates you.
• Communicate with your employer ahead of time in the event heavy rain and flooding keeps you from being able to report to work over the next few days.
• Check on elderly or disabled friends and neighbors to make sure they have what they need in the event this storm impacts Houston.

Because grounds are already saturated due to recent rains, any additional rainfall will most likely cause flooding. Stay away from bayous, streams and creeks, and please avoid driving during, or immediately following periods of heavy rain.  As you plan for travel and activities over the next few days, be sure to take into account the potential impacts from this storm.

The City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is currently monitoring this system with the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston Forecast Office, National Hurricane Center, Harris County Flood Control District and various emergency management partners.

Be sure to follow official sources of information on social media, as well as pay attention to local television and radio forecasts.  Information will be available from the City of Houston as houstontx.gov/emergency and on official City of Houston Social Media Channels.