After weeks of hot and dry weather, Central Texas may be getting a big change.
Unfortunately, we may get a little too much rain at once.
The National Weather Service is forecasting widespread showers and thunderstorms across North and Central Texas Wednesday through Friday. Several inches of rain may fall in some areas, with locally higher amounts possible.
That means Central Texas flash flooding could become a concern, particularly Wednesday and Thursday.
If you live in Milam County or the surrounding area, now is a good time to get your home and property ready.
National Weather Service Flood Safety Information
Why Flash Flooding Is a Concern
The National Weather Service expects widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 5 inches across North and Central Texas.
Some locations could receive even more.
The greatest problem occurs when heavy rain repeatedly moves across the same location. The ground and drainage systems eventually can’t handle additional water.
That’s when water can begin collecting on roads, in low areas and around homes.
The exact locations that receive the heaviest rain won’t be known until the storms develop. That makes it important to keep checking the forecast as the system approaches.
Take a Look at Your Gutters
Before the rain arrives, take a few minutes to look at your gutters and downspouts.
Leaves, twigs and other debris can prevent water from draining properly.
Make sure downspouts aren’t dumping water directly beside your home’s foundation. Water should be directed away from the house whenever possible.
If you have drainage ditches or culverts on your property, check those too.
A pile of leaves or grass clippings may not look like much now. During a heavy downpour, however, it can become a dam.
Look Around the House for Trouble Spots
Think about where water normally goes when you get a hard rain.
Do you have a low spot next to the house?
Does water collect near a door?
Have you noticed a small roof leak that you’ve been meaning to repair?
Those little problems become much more important when several inches of rain fall within a short period.
If you’ve had water enter your home before, pay particular attention to those areas.
Secure Things Outside
Strong thunderstorms can bring more than rain.
Take a few minutes to secure lightweight outdoor furniture, trash cans and other items that could blow around.
It’s also a good idea to check porches, patios and areas around sheds or outbuildings.
A little preparation before a storm is much easier than chasing your trash can across the pasture afterward.
Never Drive Through Floodwater
This is one of the most important reminders.
Never drive through a flooded roadway.
Water covering a road can be deeper than it appears. The roadway underneath may also have been damaged or washed away.
If you encounter water across the road, turn around and find another route.
This is especially important on rural roads, low-water crossings and areas near creeks.
Keep an Eye on Weather Alerts
Conditions can change quickly during a heavy-rain event.
Make sure you have a reliable way to receive National Weather Service watches and warnings.
Remember that a Flood Watch means flooding is possible.
A Flood Warning or Flash Flood Warning means flooding is occurring or expected soon.
Don’t wait until water is already rising around you to start paying attention.
Heavy Rain Can Reveal Hidden Home Problems
A major rain event has a way of finding weaknesses around a house.
Roof leaks, damaged flashing, clogged gutters and poor drainage may not be noticeable during dry weather.
After the storms pass, walk around your home and look for anything unusual.
Check ceilings and walls for water stains. Look around windows and doors. Inspect areas near the foundation for standing water.
Catching a small water problem early can sometimes prevent a much larger repair later.
Stay Weather Aware, Central Texas
We certainly need rain in Central Texas.
We just don’t need all of it at the same time.
Keep an eye on the forecast over the next several days. Prepare your property before the storms arrive, and never take chances with flooded roads.
At Driscoll Home Services, we’ll continue watching weather and local news that may affect our neighbors throughout Milam County and the surrounding Central Texas communities.
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