INSIDER
Trucks, drivers needed to transport essentials to Hurricane Helene’s hardest-hit areas
Read full article: Trucks, drivers needed to transport essentials to Hurricane Helene’s hardest-hit areasOnPoint Rescue, a non-profit born from Hurricane Harvey's aftermath, is stepping up to deliver essential supplies to communities devastated by Hurricane Helene.
7 years after Hurricane Harvey, nonprofit formed in the rebuilding process continues to help with affordable housing
Read full article: 7 years after Hurricane Harvey, nonprofit formed in the rebuilding process continues to help with affordable housingSunday marks seven years since Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas.
7 years since Hurricane Harvey made landfall near Port Aransas and brought catastrophic flooding to SE Texas
Read full article: 7 years since Hurricane Harvey made landfall near Port Aransas and brought catastrophic flooding to SE TexasSeven years ago to the day, Hurricane Harvey made landfall along the Middle Texas Coast near Port Aransas, unleashing devastating winds to parts of the state and catastrophic flooding to other parts, including the Houston area.
‘They just gave daddy a new lease on life’: Volunteers help elderly man living in damaged Houston home
Read full article: ‘They just gave daddy a new lease on life’: Volunteers help elderly man living in damaged Houston homeMore than 200 volunteers with The Restoration Team spent 6 months ripping out moldy sheetrock and putting 87-year-old George Tisdale’s home back together. Since the non-profit started after Hurricane Harvey with members of just 4 churches, it has grown. Pulling in and putting people to work from here and across the country.
Fort Bend to improve levees, basins with GLO funds as part of enhancing flood resilience
Read full article: Fort Bend to improve levees, basins with GLO funds as part of enhancing flood resilienceFort Bend County Judge KP George will announce the awarding of Regional Mitigation Funds from the Texas General Land Office (GLO) during a press conference scheduled for 10 a.m.
IS IT STILL RAINING!?😩 Storm PTSD is REAL and we’re feeling it as rain continues in across Houston following Beryl
Read full article: IS IT STILL RAINING!?😩 Storm PTSD is REAL and we’re feeling it as rain continues in across Houston following BerylFor a lot of us, another round of storms and heavy downpours stirs familiar and uncomfortable feelings after all the recent flooding we’ve had.
Lake Houston lowering set for Sunday morning ahead of Tropical Storm Beryl
Read full article: Lake Houston lowering set for Sunday morning ahead of Tropical Storm BerylHouston Public Works has announced a temporary lowering of Lake Houston by 12 inches, starting at 4 a.m. on Sunday, July 7, in preparation for Tropical Storm Beryl.
LIVE UPDATES: Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Matagorda County as Category 1 Hurricane
Read full article: LIVE UPDATES: Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Matagorda County as Category 1 HurricaneTropical Storm Beryl is forecast to re-intensify to hurricane status before making a final landfall along the Texas Gulf Coast.
Houston man exploits Hurricane Harvey funds, recieves newly built home worth over $300K
Read full article: Houston man exploits Hurricane Harvey funds, recieves newly built home worth over $300KProsecutors say Christopher Montealegre, 45, pleaded guilty to applying for and receiving a newly built home worth $314,000 with federally approved funds meant to assist Hurricane Harvey victims.
Every hurricane is different. How would Houston handle a storm like Hurricane Ian?
Read full article: Every hurricane is different. How would Houston handle a storm like Hurricane Ian?Hurricane Ian was a dramatically different storm than Hurricane Harvey, which flooded much of southeast Texas. It’s why KPRC2′s Gage Goulding paid a visit to where Ian made landfall to help us better weather a storm.
Texas’ first-ever statewide flood plan estimates 5 million live in flood-prone areas
Read full article: Texas’ first-ever statewide flood plan estimates 5 million live in flood-prone areasThe state’s flood plan shows which Texans are most at risk of flooding and suggests billions of dollars more are needed for flood mitigation projects.
Federal forecasters predict the highest number of storms ever for 2024 season
Read full article: Federal forecasters predict the highest number of storms ever for 2024 seasonWind changes caused by the La Niña climate pattern and warmer-than-average ocean temperatures are expected to be major drivers to this year’s hurricane season.
‘Expect to see flooding yet again’: Kingwood apartment complex warns residents of Harvey-like conditions
Read full article: ‘Expect to see flooding yet again’: Kingwood apartment complex warns residents of Harvey-like conditionsAs the Kingwood community prepares for flooding moving into the weekend, local apartment complexes are confirming suspicions that we could see Hurricane Harvey-like flood levels.
Voluntary evacuation issued for several Montgomery County neighborhoods along W. Fork of San Jacinto River
Read full article: Voluntary evacuation issued for several Montgomery County neighborhoods along W. Fork of San Jacinto RiverMontgomery County Judge Mark Keough has issued a voluntary evacuation order for several neighborhoods along the West Fork of the San Jacinto River due to continuing rising water levels.
A Texas landowner can sue the state for flood damage to his property, U.S. Supreme Court rules
Read full article: A Texas landowner can sue the state for flood damage to his property, U.S. Supreme Court rulesRichie DeVillier, who owns land east of Houston, said the state owes him damages for constant flooding after Texas made changes to Interstate 10 near his property.
US Supreme Court hears Texas case that could change how states compensate landowners for their property
Read full article: US Supreme Court hears Texas case that could change how states compensate landowners for their propertyLandowners east of Houston are seeking compensation from the state after a highway project led to flooding on their properties.
Six years after Hurricane Harvey, the city of Houston still hasn’t allocated $200 million in relief funds
Read full article: Six years after Hurricane Harvey, the city of Houston still hasn’t allocated $200 million in relief fundsBoth the state and the city of Houston say they want to work together to help pay down the remaining funds.
Nearly $10 million approved for Sims Bayou upgrades in Harris County
Read full article: Nearly $10 million approved for Sims Bayou upgrades in Harris CountyThe bayou’s system helps capture and drain water to prevent flooding for residents and business that hug the waterway. However, when historic storms like Hurricane Harvey occurred, the system was overwhelmed, damaging homes and business near the Fuqua Garden View neighborhood.
Homeowner stuck with $39K water bill for home damaged during Hurricane Harvey
Read full article: Homeowner stuck with $39K water bill for home damaged during Hurricane HarveyA homeowner called KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis after dealing with a water bill issue for years. A meter issue left her with a huge bill that stood in the way of getting the federal Hurricane Harvey relief money she needed.
Former KPRC 2 reporter revisits the #HoustonStrong handshake 6 years after Hurricane Harvey
Read full article: Former KPRC 2 reporter revisits the #HoustonStrong handshake 6 years after Hurricane HarveyA former KPRC 2 reporter recalled the moments he covered Hurricane Harvey, including one moment with a Houstonian that went viral.
One in five Texans lives in a floodplain, state’s first-ever analysis shows
Read full article: One in five Texans lives in a floodplain, state’s first-ever analysis showsAs it prepares a statewide flood prevention plan, the state found that almost 6 million Texans live in an area susceptible to floodwaters.
Federal judge awards compensation for Hurricane Harvey victims upstream from Addicks, Barker dams
Read full article: Federal judge awards compensation for Hurricane Harvey victims upstream from Addicks, Barker damsThe Barker and Addicks dams were designed by the Army Corps of Engineers to protect properties downstream, but during Hurricane Harvey, property owners upstream said the dams caused them to take a hit. A federal judge agreed and said they’re entitled to compensation.
Dawn Buckingham and Jay Kleberg vie for open land commissioner seat overseeing the Alamo and disaster relief funds
Read full article: Dawn Buckingham and Jay Kleberg vie for open land commissioner seat overseeing the Alamo and disaster relief fundsThe land commissioner manages the Texas General Land Office, which manages the Alamo, administers natural disaster relief funding and helps fund public education. The seat is open after incumbent George P. Bush lost his primary bid for attorney general.
HL Kids: Meteorologists Anthony Yanez and Justin Stapleton answer kid weather questions at Katy ISD’s Creech Elementary
Read full article: HL Kids: Meteorologists Anthony Yanez and Justin Stapleton answer kid weather questions at Katy ISD’s Creech ElementaryThey overcame Hurricane Harvey, now they have questions! Meteorologists Anthony Yanez and Justin Stapleton answer severe weather questions from 5th graders at Creech Elementary.
‘It’s destroying me’: Storm after storm, climate change increases strain on Texans’ mental health
Read full article: ‘It’s destroying me’: Storm after storm, climate change increases strain on Texans’ mental healthTens of thousands of coastal Texas residents have survived repeated extreme weather events including Hurricane Harvey. For many, it has taken an emotional toll, and researchers warn that climate change could be “catastrophic” for our mental health.
Red, White & Bayou Texas Music Festival
Read full article: Red, White & Bayou Texas Music Festival‘Red, White & Bayou Texas Music Festival & Tailgate’ returns to Dickinson. It’s on Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 3 and 4, after a five-year break following Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. on Houston Life, we’ll have a live performance in studio.
HUD, Texas at odds over flood relief discrimination claim
Read full article: HUD, Texas at odds over flood relief discrimination claimA deadline has passed with no resolution over whether Texas will settle a dispute over claims it discriminated against minority residents in how it distributed flood relief money from Hurricane Harvey.
Residents in Friendswood reflect on Hurricane Harvey; City making improvements to help reduce long term flooding
Read full article: Residents in Friendswood reflect on Hurricane Harvey; City making improvements to help reduce long term floodingIt’s been five years since Hurricane Harvey hit the Texas coast, however, the impact of the storm is still being felt in areas like Friendswood.
1000 year floods? Let’s get real
Read full article: 1000 year floods? Let’s get realFive years ago today, we were suffering the stunning realization that Hurricane Harvey had dumped 30-50″ of rain on southeast Texas--in fact, an area of flooding happened that would cover the entire state of New Jersey. Nine Trillion gallons of water fell from that storm and while I called it “Biblical” proportions, we know that storm easily made the list of 1,000 year floods. In fact, consulting group MetStat declared Harvey to be a one in 500,000 years flood event. That’s right, the odds of a Harvey are twice in one million years, according to their research. And you were here for it. But given the odds of you even being a live human being are one in 400 Trillion, this starts to make some sense, doesn’t it?
Are Hurricane Harvey assistance programs working?
Read full article: Are Hurricane Harvey assistance programs working?Government leaders spent hundreds of millions of public funds to rebuild in the five years since Hurricane Harvey. The spending is not done yet because of a new $1.2 billion bond in voters hands come November 8th. KPRC 2 Investigates looks at what went right and wrong with the assistance programs.
Five years after tragic death, family remembers Sgt. Steve Perez who passed away during Hurricane Harvey
Read full article: Five years after tragic death, family remembers Sgt. Steve Perez who passed away during Hurricane HarveyNext Monday will mark five years since a Houston Police Sergeant died in the line of duty while trying to get to work during Hurricane Harvey.
Hurricane Harvey 5 years later: Woman says she grateful for non-profit that helped her rebuild home after storm
Read full article: Hurricane Harvey 5 years later: Woman says she grateful for non-profit that helped her rebuild home after stormSome people living in historically Black, gentrifying neighborhoods like Independence Heights face special challenges when it comes to maintaining their homes, especially after a natural disaster.
A Look Behind the Scenes at The HGO Costume and Wig Shop
Read full article: A Look Behind the Scenes at The HGO Costume and Wig ShopWhen Hurricane Harvey flooded the Wortham Theatre Center, the Houston Grand Opera saw some things change forever. Including, a permanent move for their Costume and Wig Shop into a building that used to be a bank.
Stronger Houston: The San Jose Clinic expands healthcare services in Fort Bend County after first providing emergency services in the aftermath of Harvey
Read full article: Stronger Houston: The San Jose Clinic expands healthcare services in Fort Bend County after first providing emergency services in the aftermath of HarveyThe San Jose Clinic serves uninsured and underinsured patients in Houston.
‘Kingwood Kindness’: Organization created after Hurricane Harvey aims to help storm victims
Read full article: ‘Kingwood Kindness’: Organization created after Hurricane Harvey aims to help storm victimsBob Rehak isn’t a flood mitigation expert by trade, but after witnessing the devastation caused in Kingwood during Hurricane Harvey, he’s dedicated the last five years to investigating the causes of flooding and trying to stop another disaster.
Five years after Hurricane Harvey, Aransas County showing strong signs of resilience
Read full article: Five years after Hurricane Harvey, Aransas County showing strong signs of resilienceHarvey delivered more than $800 million in damage to Aransas County, but five years later, many communities have become the picture of resilience.
Hurricane Harvey 5 years later: Meyerland neighborhood continues to recover after hurricane damaged homes, businesses
Read full article: Hurricane Harvey 5 years later: Meyerland neighborhood continues to recover after hurricane damaged homes, businessesThis week marks five years since Hurricane Harvey caused devastating flooding in the Houston area.
PHOTOS: These are the most powerful images from Hurricane Harvey
Read full article: PHOTOS: These are the most powerful images from Hurricane HarveyFive years ago. It really does feel like yesterday. Like yesterday when the meteorologists started talking about more than 40 inches of rain headed toward our area.
22-year-old raising his little brother after parents passed away gifted remodeled home in Katy
Read full article: 22-year-old raising his little brother after parents passed away gifted remodeled home in KatyA Katy organization and numerous volunteers came together to renovate a home for two brothers who lost their parents.
TXDOT proposes to raise portions of I-10 prone to flooding
Read full article: TXDOT proposes to raise portions of I-10 prone to floodingThe Texas Department of Transportation is hoping to elevate portions of I-10′s main lanes between Heights Boulevard and I-45, which officials say was impassable during Hurricane Harvey and Tropical Storm Imelda.
U.S. Senate approves bill containing Texas’ “Ike Dike” coastal protection project
Read full article: U.S. Senate approves bill containing Texas’ “Ike Dike” coastal protection projectThe U.S. Senate voted to authorize the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin planning for a massive coastal barrier project in Galveston Bay meant to protect against hurricanes’ storm surge. Funding is not yet secured.
Houston businesswoman taking action against R&B artist Chris Brown over money for canceled benefit concert
Read full article: Houston businesswoman taking action against R&B artist Chris Brown over money for canceled benefit concertA local businesswoman and activist is taking action against R&B artist Chris Brown after she say he canceled his performance for a benefit concert on March 19 in Houston, according to a release.
Nearly 5 years later, challenges persist for Houstonians trying to move back home
Read full article: Nearly 5 years later, challenges persist for Houstonians trying to move back homeJames Brown has had a rough go for nearly five years now and he doesn’t hold any punches when describing what it’s been like.
New Texas plan for federal Hurricane Harvey aid yields same old result: Funds diverted away from Gulf Coast
Read full article: New Texas plan for federal Hurricane Harvey aid yields same old result: Funds diverted away from Gulf CoastDespite an admonition from federal authorities, Land Commissioner George P. Bush’s plan still steers aid disproportionately to whiter, inland counties at less risk of natural disasters.
Years after Harvey, Houston homeowner says his home is still in need of repairs
Read full article: Years after Harvey, Houston homeowner says his home is still in need of repairsThe homeowner says not much has changed since Hurricane Harvey, no repairs have been made to his home and there's no electricity or heat.
New housing community built to help replace homes lost during Hurricane Harvey opens in north Houston
Read full article: New housing community built to help replace homes lost during Hurricane Harvey opens in north HoustonAt least 70% of the units are reserved for low‐to‐moderate‐income households earning between 30 to 60% of the Area Median Income.
Feds say Texas discriminated against communities of color when it denied Houston flood aid
Read full article: Feds say Texas discriminated against communities of color when it denied Houston flood aidLand Commissioner George P. Bush is in the middle of a fierce runoff in the Republican primary for Texas attorney general against incumbent Ken Paxton. During the race, several of Bush’s opponents have criticized his office’s work in distributing Hurricane Harvey relief funds.
Hurricane survivors to protest outside City Hall demanding better drainage in northeast Houston communities
Read full article: Hurricane survivors to protest outside City Hall demanding better drainage in northeast Houston communitiesFamilies from northeast Houston are set to protest in front of Houston City Hall Tuesday, raising concerns regarding the drainage systems in their areas.
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee demands homes for disabled, elderly residents be assessed for Hurricane Harvey storm damage
Read full article: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee demands homes for disabled, elderly residents be assessed for Hurricane Harvey storm damageIt’s been five years since Hurricane Harvey devastated the Houston area, causing property damage and even the loss of human life.
Houston-area organization seeking to cover funeral expenses for victims of Astroworld Festival
Read full article: Houston-area organization seeking to cover funeral expenses for victims of Astroworld FestivalA Houston-area non-profit organization that started in the middle of Hurricane Harvey in 2017 said it donated approximately $17,000 in funeral expenses for victims of Friday night’s tragedy at Astroworld Festival.
Texas’ air quality monitors were offline during critical periods, KPRC 2 Investigates confirm
Read full article: Texas’ air quality monitors were offline during critical periods, KPRC 2 Investigates confirmThe Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, just before Hurricane Harvey arrived, disconnected dozens of air quality monitors in the Houston area.
Homeowners speak out against Harris County’s Mandatory Flood Buyout Program
Read full article: Homeowners speak out against Harris County’s Mandatory Flood Buyout ProgramIn the Allen Field neighborhood in Northeast Harris County, home after home along Darjean Street are now part of the mandatory flood buyout program.
Nicholas, now tropical storm, may cause deadly flash floods
Read full article: Nicholas, now tropical storm, may cause deadly flash floodsTropical Storm Nicholas has weakened to a tropical depression as it slowed to a crawl over southeastern Texas and southwestern Louisiana as its heavy rains continued to drench the area, maintaining a flood threat.
Nicholas, now a tropical depression, still douses Gulf Coast
Read full article: Nicholas, now a tropical depression, still douses Gulf CoastTropical Storm Nicholas has weakened to a tropical depression as it slowed to a crawl over southeastern Texas and southwestern Louisiana as its heavy rains continued to drench the area, maintaining a flood threat.
Harris County meteorologist Jeff Lindner answers your questions as Tropical Storm Ida churns toward Louisiana
Read full article: Harris County meteorologist Jeff Lindner answers your questions as Tropical Storm Ida churns toward LouisianaJeff Lindner, the Harris County meteorologist who became famous for his enduring presence through trouble during Hurricane Harvey, spoke with KPRC 2 meteorologist Justin Stapleton about Tropical Storm Ida.
On 4th anniversary of Hurricane Harvey, Harris County Flood Control District says all flood-prone improvement projects have started
Read full article: On 4th anniversary of Hurricane Harvey, Harris County Flood Control District says all flood-prone improvement projects have startedOn the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Harvey, the Harris County Flood Control District announced that all projects that are part of a multi-billion-dollar post Harvey bond program have begun.
Harris County meteorologist Jeff Lindner answers your questions about what’s happening in the tropics
Read full article: Harris County meteorologist Jeff Lindner answers your questions about what’s happening in the tropicsIn a weather preparation event, Jeff Lindner, the Harris County meteorologist who became famous for his enduring presence through trouble during Hurricane Harvey, spoke with our KPRC 2 meteorologists Frank Billingsley and Justin Stapleton about what’s brewing in the tropics. They also discussed how to keep informed whenever flooding rain is in the forecast in the future.
Houston mayor, other local leaders to speak at inquiry about denial of Hurricane Harvey funds
Read full article: Houston mayor, other local leaders to speak at inquiry about denial of Hurricane Harvey fundsHouston Mayor Sylvester Turner will speak at an inquiry about the Texas General Land Office’s (GLO) “initial denial and inequitable allocation of congressional appropriated mitigation dollars from Hurricane Harvey to the City of Houston.”
Houston-area leaders to call on the General Land Office to ensure city, county receive Harvey funds
Read full article: Houston-area leaders to call on the General Land Office to ensure city, county receive Harvey fundsHouston area representatives gathered Thursday to call upon the Texas General Land Office to ensure the worst-hit areas by Hurricane Harvey in the city and Harris County will receive the funds allocated by Congress.
After Harris County was left out of latest round of Hurricane Harvey relief funds, George P. Bush asks feds for $750 million
Read full article: After Harris County was left out of latest round of Hurricane Harvey relief funds, George P. Bush asks feds for $750 millionBush's announcement comes after an outcry from Houston and Harris County leaders who requested $1.3 billion in federal funds for Harvey relief but were left off a list of recipients the General Land Office released.
Local officials alarmed after Houston, Harris County denied federal funds for flood mitigation projects
Read full article: Local officials alarmed after Houston, Harris County denied federal funds for flood mitigation projectsRoughly four years after Hurricane Harvey, some area leaders are upset with the plans to distribute federal flood mitigation funds.
Houston, Harris County get nothing in latest round of $1 billion federal Hurricane Harvey relief funding
Read full article: Houston, Harris County get nothing in latest round of $1 billion federal Hurricane Harvey relief fundingHouston and Harris County were denied funding over other Texas communities despite requesting $1.3 billion for ongoing relief efforts. Local officials are asking the federal government to intervene.
Texas death toll from February storm, outages surpasses 100
Read full article: Texas death toll from February storm, outages surpasses 100The majority of the Texas deaths are associated with hypothermia, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The toll now officially exceeds that of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which was blamed for 68 deaths in Texas. Among them was Gilbert Rivera, 60, who told relatives after the power went out in his garage apartment that he was cold but staying bundled up. AdRivera’s family is among dozens who have filed lawsuits against electricity providers and the state’s embattled power grid, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. Next week, the Texas House is expected to vote on a package in response to the storm, including efforts to winterize power plants.
Texas death toll from February storm, outages surpasses 100
Read full article: Texas death toll from February storm, outages surpasses 100Texas officials on Thursday, March, 25, 2021 raised the death toll from February's winter storm and blackouts to at least 111 people nearly doubling the state's initial tally following one of the worst power outages in U.S. history. (AP Photo/LM Otero File)AUSTIN, Texas – Texas officials on Thursday raised the death toll from February's winter storm and blackouts to at least 111 people — nearly doubling the state's initial tally following one of the worst power outages in U.S. history. The majority of the Texas deaths are associated with hypothermia, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The toll now officially exceeds that of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which was blamed for 68 deaths in Texas. Among them was Gilbert Rivera, 60, who told relatives after the power went out in his garage apartment that he was cold but staying bundled up.
Spencer Solves It: Family living under Harvey-damaged roof finally has new one over their heads
Read full article: Spencer Solves It: Family living under Harvey-damaged roof finally has new one over their heads“I have to admit, I never dreamed I would be living this way, living in fear for my life”, Charles Allen said. “If we don’t get some kind of help, this roof is going to fall in,” said Staci Allen, Charles Allen’s wife. “It’s going to injure or kill us.”Too proud to ask for help himself, finally a relative of Charles Allen contacted Bill Spencer and the Spencer Solves It team. The hard-working crew began ripping the old roof off and putting a brand new roof on the Allens’ home. “You saved us from that.”As for Charles Allen, he said he is deeply moved.
Once again, Houston athletes step up in city’s time of need
Read full article: Once again, Houston athletes step up in city’s time of needHe and wife Reagan are providing water bottles for those in need, after millions of Houstonians lacked clean water. This came as millions of Houstonians’ food spoiled during the power outages, and many grocery store shelves were empty. This is our fundraising campaign to benefit families without power, water, food and shelter in underserved Houston areas. We will be collaborating with @nacchelp, @astrosfoundation, @kidsmealshouston to provide food to families in need. ROBERT GRIFFIN IIIThe former Baylor quarterback and 2011 Heisman trophy winner donated 10,500 meals to the Houston food bank.
Family reunited with dog after losing her days before Hurricane Harvey
Read full article: Family reunited with dog after losing her days before Hurricane HarveyNEW CANEY – A family in New Caney is whole again after losing their dog days before Hurricane Harvey slammed into Houston. The family in New Caney almost gave up until a rescue group found her in Sugar land. A volunteer from another organization named, ‘Lost Dogs of Texas’ stepped in and used a special database to find Maddie’s owner. AdThe volunteer from Lost Dogs of Texas was able to contact Rachel’s mother and Maddie was finally reunited with her family. Lost dogs of Texas said thousands of dogs are lost every year.
JJ Watt’s 11 most memorable moments, from ‘SNL’ to Hurricane Harvey
Read full article: JJ Watt’s 11 most memorable moments, from ‘SNL’ to Hurricane HarveyHOUSTON – J.J. Watt has done a number of incredible things for Houston and its residents as his current season with the Houston Texans comes to an end. Here are 11 of the most memorable moments from JJ Watt. Hurricane Harvey relief effortsWatt and his team raised over $40.1 million dollars for victims of Hurricane Harvey in 2017. You can read more on Watt’s Harvey recovery efforts here. Mimi, the 99-year-old JJ Watt superfanAsalee Poole, also known as “Mimi” made a wish on her 99th birthday that she wanted to meet JJ Watt someday, as she was a huge fan of him.
Fort Bend County Habitat for Humanity opens Harvey Repair Program. Here’s what you should know
Read full article: Fort Bend County Habitat for Humanity opens Harvey Repair Program. Here’s what you should knowHOUSTON – More than three years have passed since Hurricane Harvey, but some people are still recovering from the storm’s devastating impact. The Fort Bend County Habitat for Humanity has opened its Harvey Repair Program. The program was made to help repair homes damaged by the storm by using funds from FEMA and insurance. The Harvey Repair Program is now open. The Fort Bend County Habitat for Humanity asks residents in need to fill out its Disaster Home Repair application and return it with the required supporting documentation to mike@fortbendhabitat.org.
Spencer Solves It helps family left waterlogged by Harvey-damaged roof
Read full article: Spencer Solves It helps family left waterlogged by Harvey-damaged roof“This whole thing is devastating, to have to live this way for so long,” Charles Allen said. “The whole roof could collapse and possibly kill one of us, or hurt the kids, or kill the kids,” Staci Allen said. “We just really need some help,” Charles Allen said. The Spencer Solves It team enlisted the help of the crew at The Roof Repair Squad, a company based in Katy. “Bill, whenever you approach us, we are always ready to help,” Roof Repair Squad president Jorge Bogran, told KPRC 2 reporter Bill Spencer.
Texas rolls out mobile pollution monitoring capabilities following failures during Hurricane Harvey
Read full article: Texas rolls out mobile pollution monitoring capabilities following failures during Hurricane HarveyCredit: Michael Stravato for The Texas TribuneHOUSTON – Texas officials on Tuesday said the state’s environmental agency has added greater capacity to quickly monitor pollution across the state during storms and other disaster events, such as chemical fires. Toby Baker, the executive director of the TCEQ, said the agency’s effort to add mobile air monitoring capacity was in motion before the EPA OIG report, but acknowledged that Hurricane Harvey was a turning point for environmental regulators. “We learned some lessons with Hurricane Harvey,” Baker said. Tuesday’s announcement was held in Houston’s Manchester neighborhood at Hartman Park, next to Valero’s Houston Refinery, where a storage tank notoriously collapsed during Hurricane Harvey — one of the unmonitored pollution events during the storm. The extent of the emissions released by chemical plants, refineries and other industrial operators along the Gulf Coast during and after Hurricane Harvey is unknown due to the lag in air monitoring, according to the EPA report.
Meet Bubbles, the one-eyed rescue dog taking a bite out of animal abuse in Houston
Read full article: Meet Bubbles, the one-eyed rescue dog taking a bite out of animal abuse in HoustonBut have no fear, one local dog named Bubbles and her human, Kylin Horton, are on a mission to raise awareness about both animal and domestic abuse. During that time, they had their first encounter with Bubbles who was saved from a horrible case of animal cruelty. When Kilyn Horton first met Bubbles, the dog was in bad shape, requiring four surgeries to repair damage from being abused and shot in the head. After adopting Bubbles, Horton started documenting Bubbles' progress on Instagram, as she had already captured the hearts of many people who wanted to see how she was faring. 100% of Bubbles toy proceeds go to supporting nonprofit organizations, including Houston Pets Alive and a domestic violence shelter.
DA launches probe into how FEMA money is being handled in Dickinson, sources say
Read full article: DA launches probe into how FEMA money is being handled in Dickinson, sources sayDICKINSON, Texas – A Texas Ranger arrived at Dickinson City Hall on Monday with a subpoena for records. City Administrator Chris Heard met with him briefly but said he can’t talk about what they discussed. Friction between Heard and Hunter led to Hunter recently being place on paid leave after only two months on the job. “She brought up some concerns and we will just work through any issues that have arisen,” Heard said. A spokesman for the District Attorney’s office said he can neither confirm nor deny an investigation is underway.
State takes over Houston's Harvey home repair program
Read full article: State takes over Houston's Harvey home repair programThe state took over the program this week and Torres and other residents who have applied for assistance say they’re worried that could lead to yet more delays. A third of the funding — nearly $428 million — went to a program for home repair and reconstruction. Harvey dumped up to 50 inches (1.3 meters) of rain on the Houston area following landfall on Aug. 25, 2017. In the Houston area, Harvey flooded more than 150,000 homes, with more than 16,000 residents identified as potentially needing repair help. In its own program, the land office has fixed more than 2,000 homes and has approved nearly 2,900 reimbursements statewide.
Feds order the state to take over Hurricane Harvey rebuilding funds from the city of Houston
Read full article: Feds order the state to take over Hurricane Harvey rebuilding funds from the city of HoustonActing Assistant Secretary John Gibbs writes, “The amendment also eliminates direct allocation funding to the city of Houston. The state said the city has only been able to address 163 homes since January of 2019. The General Land Office said the funds for Houstonians are not going anywhere, simply they are going to manage it moving forward. The state sent Mayor Turner a termination letter Monday evening informing them the contract shall terminate on Nov. 6, 2020. In the final sentence, the Deputy Land Commissioner for the GLO writes, “It is our hope that the City of Houston will engage with the GLO in future discussion concerning these matters.”
Judge directs not guilty verdict for final defendant in Arkema case related to Harvey fire
Read full article: Judge directs not guilty verdict for final defendant in Arkema case related to Harvey fireHOUSTON – A judge issued a directed verdict Thursday against the final defendant in the criminal case brought against Arkema related to the fire at the company’s Crosby plant during Hurricane Harvey. KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice said the directed verdict was issued because there was insufficient evidence to bring the case to a jury. Comardelle was the only remaining defendant in the case after the charges against Arkema CEO Richard Rowe and Michael Keough, the company’s logistics officer, were dropped. Hardin said Arkema was the only company being investigated but never addressed the other companies on the Houston Ship Channel. Hardin said it was unprecedented for prosecutors to make it a crime and targeted Arkema for not anticipating Hurricane Harvey’s impact.
Arkema CEO dropped as defendant in criminal case related to Harvey chemical release
Read full article: Arkema CEO dropped as defendant in criminal case related to Harvey chemical releaseHOUSTON – The CEO of Arkema was dropped as a defendant Wednesday in the criminal case against the company in connection with the chemical release that happened during Hurricane Harvey. Prosecutors confirmed Richard Rowe was dropped from the case that accuses the company of and some employees of recklessly releasing chemicals into the air during a fire. The blaze happened after floodwaters inundated the Crosby plant and knocked out power to the cooling system used to keep certain chemicals stable. The news comes after prosecutors said they were seeking to drop charges that were filed against Michael Keough, the company’s logistics officer. Arkema has said that the fire was caused by an act of God and that plant officials did everything they reasonably could to prevent it.
Will Beta be another Harvey? Not likely. Here’s why.
Read full article: Will Beta be another Harvey? Not likely. Here’s why.This dry air is being drawn into Beta’s circulation, causing the storm to be very off-balance, or lopsided. The orange coloring to the left (west) shows dry air. Dry air is stable. Dry air intrusion will keep Beta from strengthening. Wind shear will continue to be somewhat of a problem for Beta as it works its way toward the Texas coast.
Prosecutors seek to drop some charges in Arkema case
Read full article: Prosecutors seek to drop some charges in Arkema caseHOUSTON – Harris County prosecutors are seeking to drop some charges filed in connection with the fire and chemical release at the Arkema plant near Crosby during Hurricane Harvey. Both Arkema and Michael Keough, the company’s logistics official, were charged with assault of a public servant after prosecutors said two deputies suffered injuries because of the chemicals that were released. According to court documents, prosecutors believe they cannot prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt and have asked the court to drop those charges. Arkema has said that the fire was caused by an act of God and that plant officials did everything they reasonably could to prevent it. Attorneys representing the company have also accused Harris County prosecutors of withholding evidence.
Houston Climate Week promotes city’s climate action plan, commemorates Hurricane Harvey anniversary
Read full article: Houston Climate Week promotes city’s climate action plan, commemorates Hurricane Harvey anniversaryHOUSTON – Houston’s Office of Sustainability is hosting a virtual Houston Climate Week, according to a release. The event will commemorate of the third anniversary of Hurricane Harvey and officially kickoff the implementation phase of the recently-released Houston Climate Action Plan. The Houston Climate Action Plan is a science-based, community-driven strategy for Houston to reduce greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions, meet the Paris Agreement goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, and lead a global energy transition, according to a release. “After COVID-19 cancelled our plans for an in-person Climate Action Plan launch in April, the idea of a virtual Houston Climate Week was born,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner. Monday, August 2411 a.m. - Opening Session: Making Houston the Renewable Energy Capital of the World1 p.m. - Houston Climate Impact Assessment: What Does the Future Hold for Houston?
Recovery Houston brings dozens of volunteers to help Hurricane Laura Survivors
Read full article: Recovery Houston brings dozens of volunteers to help Hurricane Laura Survivors– Recovery Houston volunteers made their way to Lake Charles, Louisiana to help those who were hardest hit by Hurricane Laura. That event became the first chapter of the Recovery Houston organization, founded by Creech. Creech KPRC 2’s coverage of Recovery Houston was recognized by President Barack Obama as one of his most memorable humanitarian stories of 2017. When Hurricane Laura hit, Creech knew Recovery Houston had to get involved. “I woke up this morning feeling really good that I was able to help somebody,” Bradley Dennison, a Recovery Houston volunteer said.