Officials have warned that the Houston area faces "life-threatening" flood conditions as severe weather batters parts of Texas. A flood watch is in effect Thursday in southeastern Texas and parts of Louisiana.
Several flash flood warnings have been issued since up to eight inches of rain fell on Thursday in some areas of southeast Texas. Additional rounds of rain are predicted for these areas through Friday.
Gov. Greg Abbott declared a disaster as the state was in danger from extreme weather and flooding. He expanded the disaster declaration to add 59 counties to ensure Texans and their communities receive the assistance and support they need to stay safe as flooding conditions and severe weather persist in multiple areas across Texas.
The governor added that it is vital for Texans in at-risk areas to remain weather-aware, follow the guidance of state and local officials, and avoid traveling in dangerous flood conditions.
He ensured that the State of Texas continues working with emergency management and local officials to deploy any additional resources needed to provide ongoing support and protect their fellow Texans.
On Thursday, Harris County officials also declared a disaster. Due to continuous floods and severe rainfall north of the area, they demanded that residents closest to the banks of the East Fork of the San Jacinto River be forced to evacuate.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo told the residents that they want them out of this area.
"This is a life-threatening situation. The river is expected to rise to 77 feet above sea level by Friday." Hidalgo said the water level will be several feet below where it was during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. She said the river is typically 45 to 50 feet above sea level.
She warned those who cannot evacuate will probably be stuck in their houses for two or three days.
