Change Font Size:   A A A

Apr 19, 2016 | Carol E. Barnwell

Heavy Rains Flood Houston Area

 

Waters Continue to Rise as More Rain Predicted

 

Areas in and around the Greater Houston area in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas experienced extended periods of rain, wind blown water and flooding this week and more is on the way. More than 13 inches of rain fell in six hours and in some locations more than 16 inches of rain. Five deaths have been confirmed, two of which were people trapped in their cars in the rising water.

 

Schools are closed for the second day as the city and surrounding areas await more rain and possible additional flooding. Responders rescued more than 1200 people during the downpour and subsequent rising water in many neighborhoods that have never before experienced flooding.

 

The Rev. Beth Fain, rector of St. Mary’s, Cypress in north Houston, had to be evacuated from the rectory by kayak in the early morning hours of Tuesday. Diocesan officials are currently checking in with more than 60 churches in the affected area.

 

Bishop Andy Doyle asked for prayers for flood victims in a special message to the Diocese on Monday. He praised first responders who were caring for immediate needs of victims. "We continue to watch especially hard hit areas and stand ready to respond where needed,” he said, adding, "We have been part of recovery efforts before, and we know that this situation will continue to develop in the days to come. … Please continue to keep those who have been affected in your prayers.” 

 

Minor damage has been reported from a few churches, although St. Cuthbert, Houston and Holy Comforter, Spring had more major damage. It is difficult to ascertain how many parishioners have been flooded at this early point, especially since phones are out in some areas and flooding makes physically checking on people nearly impossible.

 

Camp Allen reported the loss of several large trees and a culvert that had been washed out. The weather has also disrupted scheduled visits from area schools for the outdoor ecology Discovery Program. 

 

 

The Diocese has set up a donation account to help with needs as they are assessed. Find it here: http://www.epicenter.org/donate-now.