What's happening?
In a Jan. 20 news release, Houston City Council Member Fred Flickinger—who represents District E, which includes the Lake Houston area—noted at least 3-5 inches of rainfall is expected in the San Jacinto River watershed this week, triggering the opening of the Lake Houston Spillway gates. Houston Public Works officials began lowering Lake Houston the afternoon of Jan. 21, and it was completed before rainfall began the morning of Jan. 22.
Next steps
Flickinger and Houston Public Works officials urged property owners along the lake to secure property along the shoreline, and secure patio and outdoor furniture.
"Please also keep in mind with rain events flash flooding is always possible; stay weather aware and avoid roadways if possible during rain events," Flickinger said in the release. "It only takes 6 inches of water to move a car. Always turn around, don't drown."
Stay tuned
Officials noted the Lake Houston Spillway gates will remain open to manage storm inflows until inclement weather has moved from the region.
To monitor Lake Houston water levels, click here. To monitor Lake Conroe water levels, click here. To monitor water levels throughout Harris County, click here.
