Tropical downpours expected in Houston, prompting ABC13 Weather Alert days

The City of Houston has announced it is activating several preparedness measures as the potential for heavy rainfall and flash flooding continues across the region.

City officials said that Houston Public Works is lowering Lake Houston, placing barricades at flood-prone locations, and preparing dump trucks to assist with potential high-water challenges that may arise.

The Houston Police Department and Houston Fire Department have placed high-water rescue vehicles and boats throughout the city, according to officials.

Officials also said the city's Office of Emergency Management activated the City's Emergency Operations Center at 8 a.m. on Monday to coordinate response efforts and monitor weather conditions.

City leaders warned that during periods of heavy rainfall, some roadways around Houston may temporarily hold water, adding that they are designed to drain quickly to help reduce the risk of structural flooding.

Houston officials advised the public to use patience and caution when travelling through the city, encouraging motorists to slow down, allow extra time to travel, and to never drive through flooded roadways.

"We are taking every step to prepare for this weather and keep our community safe," Houston Mayor John Whitmire said. "I urge residents and visitors alike to stay informed, use caution on the roads, and never drive through flooded streets. By working together and following official guidance, we can help keep everyone safe."

Houston city officials shared that people can text AlertHouston to 888777 to receive important updates and emergency information.

The ABC13 Weather Team is watching some tropical moisture, which is increasing storm chances on Monday, and could potentially develop into a more organized system this week.

We're watching some tropical moisture which is increasing storm chances today, and could potentially develop into a more organized system this week.

Crews with the Pearland Fire Department responded to four different residential fire incidents across the city within a four-hour period as thunderstorms continued in the area on Monday, officials said.

According to Pearland fire officials, the fire incidents included a mobile home fire on Amie Lane, an attic fire on Belmore Lane, a reported residential fire near Pine Knot Court, and an additional residential fire elsewhere in the city.

No significant fire spread beyond the initial areas was reported, according to Pearland fire officials.

Fire officials said that initial information indicates that several of these incidents may be weather-related, with lightning strikes suspected as a contributing factor. The specific causes of these incidents are still under investigation, Pearland fire officials said.

As the ABC13 Weather Alert Day continues on Monday, multiple high water locations have been reported across downtown Houston by TranStar.

According to Houston TranStar, high water was reported on IH-45 North HOV northbound at Travis Street. Cameras captured the flooding near downtown Houston on Monday afternoon.