North Austin News

The City of Austin urges residents to be prepared for possible severe flooding following heavy rainfall. The National Weather Service is forecasting periods of heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding likely from Friday night through Sunday. Severe weather is possible over portions of the area on Friday night and Saturday evening as well, with large hail and damaging winds being the primary concerns. 

Flash flooding can occur very quickly and without warning. It is important to be prepared in advance of a possible emergency.   

Clean out drains and gutters. Keep drainage easements clear of debris, and do not dump brush into creeks or open channels. Gather supplies to last for several days, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and water, in case utility service is interrupted in your area. 

Keep a charged cell phone or battery-powered radio close by to monitor local weather conditions. Sign up for regional emergency notifications from WarnCentralTexas.org to receive alerts. 

If you know you live in a floodplain or if your house has flooded in the past, keep important documents in a waterproof container and create password-protected digital copies. Move valuables to higher levels. Make a plan for your family and pets. Consider whether you want to stay at home or find shelter with friends or family. Prepare a to-go kit of emergency supplies, like food, water, medications, important documents, first aid supplies, pet food, and infant formula and diapers. If you decide to leave, turn off your electricity and gas, if it is safe to do so. Keep in mind the roads near your home may flood before your home does. Check ATXFloods.com for road closures. About 75% of flood fatalities occur in vehicles. 

If you must travel, stay away from creeks, trails, culverts, ponds, and other drainage infrastructure. If you encounter high water, do not drive through it and do not drive around any barricades. Please also remember to slow down on wet roads. At night, it can be difficult to see if water is covering the road. Avoid contact with floodwater due to potential health risks, including exposure to hazardous materials and bacteria. If water is rising, get to higher ground.  

Visit Ready.gov for more detailed emergency preparedness planning and safety information. 

Austin 9-1-1 

If you need emergency assistance, call 9-1-1. 

Austin 3-1-1   

To report current flooding issues, traffic signals out, or debris in the roadway, report the issue on the Austin 3-1-1 mobile app, or call 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000.  

Original source can be found here.