Residents in the vicinity of the San Jacinto River, located south of Lake Conroe Dam, have been advised to take necessary precautions due to anticipated major flooding. The situation has been exacerbated by the release of water from Lake Livingston, which is currently releasing 124,000 cubic feet of water per second, surpassing the previous record set during Hurricane Harvey in 1994. As a result, officials are warning residents south of Lake Conroe Dam to prepare for significant flooding.
The heavy rainfall in Walker and northern Montgomery counties, with totals as high as 16 inches overnight, coupled with already saturated grounds, has led to the release of 13,400 cubic feet per second from Lake Conroe. This release is expected to increase as the lake continues to receive more water. The Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is working with the San Jacinto River Authority to understand the effects of these releases downstream.
By lunchtime, the gate release had risen to 66,100 cubic feet per second. In response, officials urged residents south of Lake Conroe Dam to take immediate action and stay aware of the possibility of significant flooding along the river. In the late afternoon, Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough issued a voluntary evacuation order for flood-prone areas, including River Plantation, Mosswood, Woodloch, and the Idle Wilde/Idle Glen areas. Shelters have been made available in The Woodlands, Cleveland, and Montgomery.
Jason Millsaps from the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management emphasized the severity of the situation for those living south of Lake Conroe. He advised residents to move to higher ground and secure their valuables and vehicles. Millsaps explained that it takes approximately eight hours for water released from the dam to reach I-45. The flooding is expected to impact east Montgomery County by late tonight or early Friday morning before moving into Harris County and Kingwood until it reaches Lake Houston.
The release of water from Lake Conroe is necessary to prevent an uncontrolled release, which would pose a significant danger to everyone involved. Unfortunately, the recent heavy rainfall has resulted in almost a “Harvey-level amount of rainfall” in the Lake Conroe area. The ABC13 Weather Team has extended their Weather Alert Day through Friday due to the lingering threat of heavy rain.
Lake Livingston is also releasing more water than previous weeks, with a current release of 100,600 cubic feet per second. Residents in surrounding areas should remain vigilant and stay updated on the latest developments. The situation is being closely monitored by local authorities, and residents are encouraged to follow any evacuation orders or guidelines provided.
As the region prepares for the potential impact of major flooding, it is crucial for residents to prioritize their safety and take the necessary precautions. Stay informed through local news sources and heed the advice of emergency management officials.
