Hurricane Harvey battered Friendswood with up to 50 inches of rain between Aug. 25-29, which is a record for a tropical storm system, according to the National Weather Service.
The rain brought widespread devastation, including the deaths of two Friendswood residents and flood damage to more than 3,000 homes, according to a statement from the Friendswood Police Department on Aug. 31.
Ruben Jordan, 58, was found at the 3000 block of W. Bay Area Boulevard and was recovered by boat.
Ronald Zaring, age unknown, passed away on Aug. 29 when being transported to Huntsville by a strike team. The elderly man was a patient at Friendswood Health Care Center when he evacuated to Friendswood High School on Aug. 27.
No other details were immediately available, according to an official statement.
The Friendswood Police Department along with the Texas Search and Rescue are conducting search and recovery operations in parts of the city. First responders will go door-to-door conducting assessments to determine whether there are any additional deceased persons. At least four missing persons reports were filed with the police department since the storm hit, said Friendswood Chief of Police Robert Wieners.
Donations
The city of Friendswood is distributing clothing and other donations to residents in need at the Jones Hanger at 901 Buckingham Drive, Friendswood. The city is at capacity for donations at the moment. The distribution center will be open 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Debris removal
Flood waters continue to recede in the city, with both FM 518 and FM 528 completely clear within city limits, according to official reports. FM 2351 is still impassable in places, so commuters are urged to stay cautious when on the roads.
Garbage collection is expected to resume soon, and the city will begin offering debris removal as well. A schedule will be announced for debris pickup.
Debris must be brought to the curb and separated into these piles:
- Vegetative waste: trees, tree limbs, leaves, shrubs, etc.
- Construction and demolition: carpet, furniture, gypsum board and roof shingles, etc.
- Appliances: dryers, refrigerators, washers and other large appliances
- Household hazardous materials: cleaners, paints, etc.
Mixed debris will not be picked up. Debris should be separated accordingly.
Debris should not be piled near gas meters, mailboxes, intersections, stop signs or other traffic signage, according to the city.
City permits are still required for major home repairs, but permit fees will be waives. All contractors must register with the city, according to Friendswood officials.
Towed vehicles
All abandoned vehicles on Friendswood roadways have been towed. Residents can call 281-996-3300 to locate their vehicles using the license plate number.