Floods & Floodplain Management

Floodplain management is the operation of a community program of preventative and corrective measures to reduce the risk of current and future flooding, resulting in a more resilient community. Having flood waters enter a residence can be one of the biggest nightmares for homeowners and renters alike. However, the fact that Deer Park is located close to the Gulf of Mexico and the fact that we have the Houston Ship Channel along our north city border and nearby Boggy Bayou and Patrick's Bayou to deal with, the threat of flooding is a very realistic fear. In fact when the weather channel listed "The 5 Most Dangerous Hurricane Cities in America" the Houston Metro area was number 1 on the list!

The City of Deer Park would like to ensure that all residents are taking the necessary steps to protect themselves from floods. Listed below you will find the latest on advisories and warnings, messages from the City, and links to helpful tips on how you can keep yourself and your family safe during a period of flooding.

If a Flood is Likely in Your Area, You Should

• Listen to the radio or television for information.
• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any probability of flash flood, move immediately to a higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
• Be aware of stream, drainage channels, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If You Must Prepare to Evacuate, You Should Do the Following

• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor if possible.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

Turn Around, Don't Drown

• When there's water running across the road, drivers should always turn around and choose a different route. These are the facts:
• Six inches of water can cause tires to lose traction and begin to slide.
• Twelve inches of water can float most cars. Two feet of rushing water will carry off pick-ups and SUV's and most other vehicles.
• Water across a road may hide missing segments of roadbed or a missing bridge.
• In flash floods, waters rise so rapidly they may be far deeper by the time you are halfway across, trapping you in your vehicle.
• Flash floods are especially treacherous at night when it is very difficult to see how deep waters may be or how fast water is rising.
• Floodwater weakens roadbeds. Drivers should proceed cautiously after waters have receded, since the road may collapse under the weight of the vehicle.

Responsibilities

The Floodplain Development Division manages all development in the floodplain of the City of Deer Park by reviewing, issuing permits, monitoring, and inspecting construction activities as required by the City of Deer Park Code of Ordinances.