TEXAS — The first named tropical storm of the season put a damper on Houston FIFA World Cup festivities earlier this week, causing delays and cancellations. Despite the rain and some street flooding, international and local FIFA fans made the best of it, and as hurricane season continues, the Harris County Flood Control District shared what the Houston area can expect going forward.
“That’s how it is here. It rains, and when it rains, it pours,” said John Sadagnot, a FIFA fan.
Jeff Lindner, a meteorologist with Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD), said preparations with other agencies started Sunday, well before the first tropical storm of the season was named Arthur. It quickly dissipated.
“This was a good drill, kind of for the hurricane season,” Lindner said. “I think it put the forefront up for everybody of what the next few months we could deal with here, so it was a good test of plans.”
He said the rain, street flooding and high creek levels had mostly subsided by early afternoon Wednesday.
“The biggest thing we’re dealing with right now is the wind. We’re seeing some really gusty wind conditions,” said Lindner.
Once the rain cleared up, in pure Houston fashion, came the extreme heat and humidity.
“We’re very concerned about high heat index values of 108 to as much as 110 during the afternoon hours. For folks who are not used to that coming here, you know, we have a game Saturday, a team from Northern Europe. This is going to be really, really hot,” he said.
Health officials are urging fans to take precautions, and for any future rain episodes during FIFA, local fan Yoalli Pacheco shared some advice for international travelers.
“I just say, enjoy your time here. Go visit some restaurants,” said Pacheco.
In terms of flood control-related infrastructure projects, HCFCD said it has more construction underway this year alone than it has in its entire 90-year history. In addition, the district said it has completed hundreds of projects in Harris County.