Texans, Brace Yourselves: Hurricane Season Is Coming

With hurricane season in full swing, Texans need to brace themselves for the potential aftermath. A recent study by LawnStarter reveals that several counties in Texas are at a moderate to very high risk of flooding. Harris County tops the list in Texas, followed by Cameron and Galveston counties.

Here's a breakdown of the most flood-prone areas:

Top 10 Flood-Prone Counties in Texas:

1. Harris County
2. Cameron County
3. Galveston County
4. Brazoria County
5. Aransas County
6. Jackson County
7. San Patricio County
8. Orange County
9. Calhoun County
10. Willacy County

Top 10 Flood-Prone Counties in the U.S.:

1. Harris County, TX
2. Bergen County, NJ
3. Ocean County, NJ
4. Atlantic County, NJ
5. Cape May County, NJ
6. Cameron County, TX
7. Volusia County, FL
8. Miami-Dade County, FL
9. St. Johns County, FL
10. Brevard County, FL

Heavy flooding occurs when large volumes of water overwhelm drainage systems and cause rivers and lakes to overflow. This can be caused by intense rainfall, prolonged rain, storm surges, dam failures, or river blockages.

The National Weather Service and FEMA offer the following insights on preventing flooding and staying safe:

Causes of Heavy Flooding in These Counties:

• Intense Rainfall: Flash floods occur when heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems, especially in urban areas.
• Prolonged Rainfall: Extended rain saturates the soil, causing rivers and lakes to swell and flood.
• Storm Surges: Tropical storms and hurricanes push seawater onto land, leading to coastal flooding.
• Dam or Levee Failures: Structural failures can release large volumes of water suddenly.
• River Blockages: Landslides or ice jams can block river flow, causing upstream flooding.

Tips for Flood Preparedness:

• Protect personal documents and items: Backup important documents in waterproof bags and store electronic copies.
• Build a disaster evacuation kit: Include medical supplies, non-perishable food, and water for at least three days.
• Buy flood insurance: Homeowner insurance usually doesn't cover flood loss.

Ways to Prevent Flooding Around Your Home (According to FEMA):

• Maintain proper water runoff and drainage: Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to direct rainwater away from your home.
• Improve lot grading: Identify how water flows around your home to spot potential flood areas and improve runoff.
• Reduce impervious surfaces: Opt for natural green spaces to reduce stormwater runoff and sewer overflows.
• Install a rain barrel: Collect rainwater from roofs for non-potable uses like gardening or car washing.
• Elevate utilities and service equipment: Raise and anchor equipment above potential flood levels to prevent damage.
• Anchor outdoor fuel tanks: Secure tanks to resist floodwaters and prevent environmental and safety hazards.

Stay vigilant, Texans, and be prepared to weather the storm.

USA TODAY contributed to this report.