Houston officials spoke out about preparations, as the city expected more rainfall and flooding conditions after the storm.
City Council member Greg Travis of District G spoke to EverythingLubbock.com. Travis said their main concern was the citizens’ safety.
“We have got people trying to drive through and traverse the floodwaters. You can’t do it.”
City officials asked residents to stay off the streets and inside if possible.
“Some people’s houses are unlivable, but other people’s houses have 2 or 3 inches of water in them,” Councilman Travis said. “While that is a pain and a flooded house, it is not something you want to risk your life by leaving at this point.”
He said they are expecting more rescue aircraft and around 50 watercraft to help people who are stranded. They are also working on setting up more local shelters.
“We are trying to figure out where to house people and where they can go for safe shelter,” Councilman Travis said. “We need to get them food, clothing, a place where they can dry out, get fed, diapers for the babies. You need to have some medicine, and things for people who might have been injured or cut walking through the water. So that is what we are up against.”
Travis said they are trying to make sure there are enough shelters for people displaced from their homes. He thinks area schools should remain open for people, but currently only around 15 are open.
The safety of animals lost in the frenzy was another major concern for Travis.
“If people want to reach out and help rescue or take in a couple foster dog and cats, that would be wonderful.”
Travis said donating to the Red Cross was the best way for people around Texas and nationwide to help the city of Houston.
“This is obviously a catastrophic flood. This is not once in a 100 years. This is once in 500 years,” Travis said. “I think the biggest help will come after, over the next three or four days once we start to drain and start to recover.”