Global Major Cities Guide

Frequent and heavy rainfalls occur in Houston, especially during the spring and summer, often accompanied by thunderstorms.

Rainfall Frequency and Intensity:
Houston receives an average of 49.8 inches (1,265 mm) of rainfall annually, making it one of the wetter major cities in the United States. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but some months, particularly May, June, September, and October, tend to see heavier precipitation.
Rain often comes in the form of short, intense downpours rather than prolonged drizzle. Flash flooding is a common concern during heavy rains.
Thunderstorms:
Thunderstorms are frequent, especially during the spring (March-May) and summer (June-August) months. These storms can be severe, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and occasionally tornadoes. Lightning is also a significant hazard during thunderstorms.
Hurricane Season:
Houston is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 to November 30), with peak activity typically occurring in August and September. Hurricanes can bring torrential rain, widespread flooding, and strong winds.

Spring (March-May):
Spring is a transitional season with frequent thunderstorms. Warm, humid air colliding with cooler fronts often triggers severe weather, including hail and occasional tornadoes.
Summer (June-August):
Summers are hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms being common due to the heat and moisture. These storms are often brief but intense.
Fall (September-November):
Fall is another wet season, with September being one of the rainiest months due to tropical storms or remnants of hurricanes. Thunderstorms are also common during this time.
Winter (December-February):
Winters are relatively mild, with less frequent thunderstorms. However, rain is still possible, often in the form of light to moderate showers.

Visitors and newcomers should take the following precautions to stay safe during Houston's rainy and stormy weather:

Flood Awareness:
Houston is prone to flash flooding due to its flat terrain and clay-heavy soil, which drains poorly. Avoid driving or walking through flooded areas, as water levels can rise quickly.
- "Turn Around, Don’t Drown": Never attempt to drive through flooded roads. Even 6 inches of water can cause a car to lose control, and 12 inches can sweep a vehicle away.
Weather Alerts:
Stay informed by monitoring local weather updates through apps like AccuWeather, The Weather Channel, or the National Weather Service (NWS). Enable emergency alerts on your phone.

Lightning Precautions:
- Avoid open spaces, tall objects, and water during a thunderstorm.
- If you hear thunder, seek shelter indoors immediately. The 30-30 Rule is helpful: If you hear thunder within 30 seconds of seeing lightning, seek shelter and wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before going outside.
Stay Indoors:
During a thunderstorm, stay away from windows, electrical appliances, and plumbing (e.g., avoid taking showers or using faucets).
Tornado Awareness:
While rare, tornadoes can occur during severe thunderstorms. Familiarize yourself with Houston’s tornado warning system and know the location of the nearest safe room or interior space in your home or building.

Evacuation Plans:
If visiting during hurricane season, familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and emergency shelters. Houston’s local government provides resources for hurricane preparedness.
Emergency Kit:
Keep an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.

Flood Control Systems:
Houston has an extensive network of bayous, reservoirs, and drainage systems designed to manage heavy rainfall. However, the city’s rapid urbanization has outpaced its drainage capacity, leading to frequent flooding in low-lying areas.
- Flood-Prone Areas: Be aware of neighborhoods that are more susceptible to flooding, such as those near Buffalo Bayou, Brays Bayou, and Greens Bayou.
- Flood Maps: Check FEMA’s flood maps or the Harris County Flood Control District website to understand flood risks in specific areas.
Road Infrastructure:
Houston’s roads can flood quickly during heavy rain. Underpasses and low-lying roads are particularly dangerous. The city has installed flood gauges at many underpasses to indicate water depth.

Community Resilience:
Houstonians are accustomed to dealing with heavy rain and storms. The community is generally supportive during severe weather events, with neighbors often helping each other during floods or hurricanes.
Work and School Closures:
During severe weather, schools and businesses may close, and public transportation may be suspended. Stay updated on closures through local news outlets like KHOU 11, ABC13, or Houston Chronicle.
Driving Culture:
Many Houstonians rely on cars, but driving during heavy rain can be hazardous. If you’re not comfortable driving in such conditions, consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

Clothing and Gear:
- Carry a compact, waterproof umbrella and a lightweight rain jacket.
- Wear waterproof shoes or boots, especially during the rainy season.
Transportation:
- Use public transportation or rideshare services during heavy rain to avoid driving in hazardous conditions.
- Be cautious when using Houston’s METRO buses or light rail during storms, as delays may occur.
Housing Considerations:
- If moving to Houston, consider renting or buying property in areas with lower flood risk. Check if the property has flood insurance.
Emergency Contacts:
- Save important numbers, such as 311 for non-emergency city services and 911 for emergencies.
- Download the Ready Harris app for real-time emergency updates and resources.

Stay Flexible:
Rain and thunderstorms can disrupt plans, so always have a backup plan for outdoor activities. Many attractions, such as museums and shopping centers, are indoors and unaffected by weather.
Learn Local Terms:
Houstonians often refer to “bayous” (slow-moving waterways) and “flash flooding.” Understanding these terms will help you navigate conversations and local news.
Community Resources:
Join local social media groups or apps like Nextdoor to stay informed about weather conditions and community updates.

Rain and thunderstorms are common in Houston, especially in spring, summer, and fall. Be prepared for sudden downpours and occasional severe weather.
Flooding is a significant risk; avoid driving or walking through flooded areas.
Stay informed through weather alerts and local news, and familiarize yourself with emergency procedures during hurricane season.
Adapt by carrying appropriate rain gear, planning indoor activities, and choosing housing in low-risk flood zones.

By understanding and preparing for Houston’s weather, you can navigate the city safely and enjoy all it has to offer, rain or shine!