In May of 2019, Fort Bend County was affected by waves of strong thunderstorms which dumped inches of rain onto the County while the Brazos River was already experiencing minor flooding. Some of the thunderstorms were so powerful that they set record levels in Dry Creek and broke all post 1961 records for Big Creek.
Residents and businesses across Fort Bend County were impacted by these storms, which caused flash flooding, river and creek flooding, and house fires. The County declared a State of Disaster, but the State of Texas nor the Federal Government issued a declaration. This means that federal disaster assistance (like FEMA assistance and low-interest SBA loans) is NOT available this time around. Fort Bend County is relying on the generosity of local service and faith-based organizations to provide recovery resources.
Immediate (Short-term) Recovery
If you had damage from May’s severe weather (such as flood damage, fire damage, vehicle damage), be sure reach out to your insurance company to file a claim. Check with your homeowners insurance, flood insurance, and/or car insurance. We encourage every resident of Fort Bend County to buy flood insurance. If you don’t have flood insurance and live outside a FEMA-designated floodplain, your annual cost for insurance is likely to be very low, likely only a few hundred dollars a year. Even renters can and should obtain flood insurance. More more information about the National Flood Insurance Program website, visit: https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program
Below is a list of posts on short-term recovery for Fort Bend County residents:
Managing Stress after a Disaster
Disasters are stressful events which can impact us even after the disaster is over. Experiencing stress is normal, but it is important to monitor your physical and mental health and that of your family after a disaster. You should also know how to relieve stress and know when to seek further help. The SAMHSA guide, […]
Debris Assistance – May 2019
Debris Pickup Fort Bend County will start picking up debris from May’s severe weather and flooding on Monday, May 20, 2019. This will give residents time to clean out their homes. If your debris is not picked up right away, please be patient – your debris will be picked up. The County will be doing […]
Cleanup Assistance Available
Residents that need cleanup assistance due to the severe weather and flooding in May 2019 are encouraged to register their home with Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. Crisis Cleanup is an online database used by local faith-based organizations and disaster relief agencies to coordinate cleanup efforts after a disaster. There are no guarantees for service, […]
Basic Needs Assistance – May 2019
This page lists some basic needs resources that may be available to Fort Bend residents who were affected by the May 2019 Severe Weather disaster. Basic needs assistance can include food, water, shelter, financial assistance for basic living expenses. United Way As storms and heavy rainfall move through Fort Bend County during the month of […]