How to Prepare for a Tropical Storm Depression in Texas
This is not a hypothetical situation — it is happening right now. Tropical Storm Edouard developed late Monday evening and is expected to make landfall in Southeast Texas, with a widespread flood watch in effect and a tropical storm warning for coastal areas as the system approaches the region. Here is what every Houston-area resident needs to do tonight.
Act Right Now — Tonight Is Your Window
Houston-area residents should use tonight to get ready before heavy rain and gusty winds arrive. Don't wait until the power goes out to start charging your devices — and if you have a portable power station or generator, make sure it is ready to go. A Flood Watch is in effect from late tonight through 7 a.m. Wednesday morning for Chambers, Liberty, San Jacinto, Montgomery, Harris, and Galveston Counties — with rainfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches anticipated and locally higher amounts of 6 to 9 inches possible.
Secure Your Property and Vehicles
Even a weaker tropical system creates real damage potential. Even when a system isn't forecast to be a major hurricane, tropical storms can still bring gusty winds enough to bring down small limbs and cause scattered outages, along with torrential downpours that can overwhelm streets and ditches — especially in typical flood-prone spots. Move outdoor furniture, potted plants, and any loose items inside. Park vehicles in a covered structure away from trees — and if your vehicle is uninsured for comprehensive coverage, move it to the highest ground available.
Prepare Your Emergency Kit Tonight
An emergency fund should typically cover your living expenses for three to six months — and make sure your insurance policies and personal documents like ID are up to date, and keep copies in a secure, password-protected digital space. Stock at least 72 hours of water at one gallon per person per day, non-perishable food, medications, a first-aid kit, flashlights, and extra batteries. Keep cell phones fully charged before the storm arrives.
Know Your Flooding Risk Before Water Rises
Houston doesn't need a named hurricane to flood — the key issue is rainfall rate, as tropical bands can drop heavy rain quickly. Know whether your home sits in or near a flood-prone area, identify your nearest high ground, and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Water levels in Lake Houston were set to be lowered Monday evening to create additional capacity ahead of the storm.
Stay Informed Through Official Channels
City officials planned to open their Emergency Operations Center at 9 a.m. Tuesday at a high readiness level, including increased support for coordinated efforts between key agencies. Several Houston-area school districts have canceled classes Tuesday ahead of the tropical weather. Monitor the National Hurricane Center at nhc.noaa.gov, the National Weather Service Houston at weather.gov/hgx, and sign up for Harris County emergency alerts at readyharris.org — tonight, not tomorrow morning.
