While it was a a stormy night the rain totals varied widely across the district. A Space City Weather rain total (below) shows the reported variations. The lower than expected rainfall for our area and the greatly expanded pumping power at the Steep Bank Creek pump station has resulted in increased detainment for the upcoming storms. The forecast is for isolated and scattered thunderstorms today and throughout the evening. The current break from storms looks to arrive Saturday afternoon; however, we all know our regional weather can change rapidly.

Steep Bank Creek Pump-Station – All 12 trailer mounted pumps were deployed for usage last night. Currently, eleven can be utilized (if needed) with one being repaired currently. These will not be pumping all the time, only when/if water levels reach certain heights. This pumping capacity is in addition to the four existing large pumps in the pump station.

Based on the rain expectations and the pumping power in the district, we do not anticipate any issues. We will update everyone if any of the variables change. As a constant reminder, in times of heavy rains street ponding is possible. Please be careful, especially at night, driving during these times. Most importantly, never drive into high standing water.

As we have noted, the district has been utilizing trailer mounted pumps to add pumping resources to the pump station. The combination of the existing pump station (working at full power) and these additional pumps have resulted in a significant five foot drop in the water level at Steep Bank Creek (see pics below).

Over the next few days, the district will receive a large amount of rain with the forecasts varying widely. In addition, the Brazos River is now forecasted to crest at 49.9 feet early Sunday morning, essentially reaching the major flood stage. Please know that the levees in our district were constructed to handle this projected river level.

As conditions change we will be updating the website and sending out emails / texts. Please make sure you have signed up for alerts and be mindful of street ponding during strong downpours.

As new storms are approaching the area, we wanted to provide an update on the current state of water in our district.

Fort Bend County LID #19 – The Steep Bank Creek watershed has the four main pumps that are operating as designed. 5 of the 12 trailer mounted pumps are moving water to aid in the speed of water removal. We expect the remaining seven will be deployed throughout the day. We are currently pumping approximately 120,000 gallons per minute (GPM) out of the watershed. The nine pumps currently active have dropped the water level down 2.5 feet from a high on Wednesday morning. Without rain, it will continue to drop about an inch per hour.

Based on the current rain projections and pumping power the district will be able to move the expected water out of the area. However, during periods of downpours, you may experience street ponding as the rain backs up the sewer drains. Always remember to not drive into high waters.

If any of the projections get increased, we will notify you on the website, and through emails and texts.