What to do if your Houston home floods

In Houston, flooding is a constant threat, from heavy rains to large hurricanes. The aftermath is often chaotic and costly, with residents struggling to salvage their homes from debris and water damage. According to Understanding Houston, more than 322,000 homes are at risk of flooding. Many areas, particularly those with Black and Brown communities, are at increased risk due to poor infrastructure and outdated drainage systems. Doris Brownco-director of community research, organizing and development at West Street Recovery, born after Hurricane Harvey, offers some insights on navigating this wet terrain.

What is your experience with flooding in Houston?

My first flood was in 1961 when (Hurricane) Carla hit. Now I live in Scenic Woods and have lived here for 56 years. During this period we were flooded several times. We don’t have drainage. Drainage is poor and outdated. We flood even when it rains a lot. We realized that with all the flooding we had to look out for ourselves. Many residents came together and we decided to do something about all the flooding.

How should residents begin the cleanup process after a flood?

The first thing to do is to start taking pictures before you try to remove items from the floor, before they develop mold. Tear up the carpets, remove all the damaged drywall and different things, try to alleviate the mold and try to bring in clean air. Everything that has been destroyed, you leave aside.

Are there ways to prepare?

I think something that would be really nice for people is to have a rain garden or something that would lead to drainage. Have a bag in case you need to evacuate. In this bag you would have canned food, nutrition bars, water. You can keep a waterproof plastic bag (for your) papers and photos. Prepare to evacuate if you must evacuate.

How does West Street Recovery help?

My house is a central house. I have generators and electrical equipment. We also supply solar batteries. My house is like a harbor in a storm, if you want to come and recharge your batteries or need a flashlight. Every neighborhood should try to create one. So if this happens, you can take care of yourself and help your neighbors. We carry out home repairs. Things that insurance companies don’t do. People come to us for help, and that’s what we do.