Fort Bend County Officials Provide Update on Potential Flooding
Today, Fort Bend County Judge KP George, joined by Emergency Operations Manager Greg Babst, Assistant Chief Drainage Engineer Jeff Janecek, and Road and Bridge Commissioner Scott Wieghat, held a press conference to address concerns regarding rising water levels along the Brazos River in low-lying areas and preparations in case of flooding.
In response to the potential risk, Fort Bend County's Emergency Operations Center was activated to a Level 3 this morning. With heavy rains anticipated later in the week, the National Weather Service issued two river flood warnings: one along the 59/Sugar Land gauge and the Rosharon gauge.
Jeff Janecek, Assistant Drainage Engineer for Fort Bend County, highlighted his department's weeklong monitoring of rainfall and the Brazos River's response. The potential flooding stems from rainfall a week ago, particularly within the Navasota River Watershed, which feeds into the Brazos River.
The West Gulf River Forecast Center (WGRFC) furnishes river flood reports thrice daily through the continuous monitoring of downstream flow rates. The floodway is expected to pass through Hempstead and onto the San Felipe Gauge, just upstream of I-10, with a projected peak of 118.6 feet above sea level, slightly higher than January's peak of 117.9 feet. From there, it is projected to affect areas including Simonton, Valley Lodge, Orchard, Rosenberg, and the Richmond gauge. The current forecast for Richmond is 44.5 feet, below the minor flood stage, with an anticipated peak on Saturday. The water gauge in Rosharon is expected to reach 46.5 feet.
Despite these forecasts, there is currently no immediate threat, with expected low to moderate impact from the rainfall. Fort Bend officials are working with surrounding jurisdictions to ensure the safety of residents.
Judge George urged residents to stay informed by signing up for mobile updates via text message by texting "fbcalert" to 888777.
"Keeping residents informed has been a foundation of my commitment since day one in office,” stated Judge George. “In times of potential crisis, such as the possibility of flooding, it's imperative that we empower our residents with timely and accurate information. By staying informed, our community can better prepare and respond to any challenges that may arise."
For more information and updates, residents can visit the Fort Bend County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management's website at www.fbcoem.org. Residents who need immediate assistance can also call 281-341-4665.
Source: Fort Bend County
