Flooding can be a major concern to those considering moving to or visiting Houston, Texas. While the city is known for having a few areas that frequently flood during storms, others are less prone to this issue. For this reason, many wonder, “which areas in Houston don’t flood?”
There are several areas in Houston that are less prone to flooding than others. These include Hyde Park, Afton Oaks, and Rice Military. Most of the runoff in these areas is carried out through the Buffalo Bayou.
Below, we’ll discuss more information on the best areas of Houston to live in if you want to avoid floods. Keep reading to learn where to go and where to avoid!
What Parts of Houston Don’t Flood?
Houston is known as the “Bayou City” because there are 22 interconnecting bayous running through it. Over the years, these bayous have been widened and deepened to mitigate flooding.
In certain parts of Houston, roads were built to fill with water during a rainstorm so rainwater could run into drains, keeping it out of homes and businesses.
Because of these two factors, water drains quickly during storms and leaves no lasting damage in some parts of the big city. A few of the areas that are least prone to flooding in Houston include:
- Briargrove
- Hyde Park
- Houston Heights
- Afton Oaks
- Rice Military
- West University Place
- EaDo
- Southgate
These neighborhoods are found just outside the 610 Loop or near Downtown Houston. Below, we’ll discuss the specifics of each area.
Briargrove
Single-family homes dominate the Briargrove neighborhood. It is situated just outside downtown Houston, allowing access to the bustling city while living a quieter home life. There is also shopping nearby with the Galleria Mall. The area is on the south side of the Buffalo Bayou, which allows rainwater to drain and prevent flooding.
Hyde Park
Located in Montrose’s central part and on the south side of the Buffalo Bayou, Hyde Park is a rich community with incredible schools, making it great for families.
It is also located on the south side of Buffalo Bayou. This bayou allows rainwater to drain away from the area, preventing severe floods.
Houston Heights
Houston Heights has increased in popularity over the last several years, especially with families. This neighborhood boasts beautiful Victorian homes and is located on the south side of the Buffalo Bayou.
Afton Oaks
This historic neighborhood is full of upscale ranch homes. It’s also close to the Galleria Mall and other amenities, such as long-running restaurants like Bayou City Seafood & Pasta and Nielsen’s Delicatessen.
Rice Military
Close to central Houston, this neighborhood is bordered by Memorial Park on the west and Buffalo Bayou Park to the south, allowing rainwater to drain easily.
The Buffalo Bayou runs through the park, and there are many opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Rice Military is also home to several popular bars and restaurants.
West University Place
This area is located next to Rice University and minutes away from the Texas Medical Center. West University Place has many museums and is near parks, stores, and restaurants.
EaDo
EaDo, or East Downtown, is an up-and-coming neighborhood in Houston. It is located next to the Central Business District and Downtown Houston and on the south side of the Buffalo Bayou.
This area is commercially active and just a few minutes drive from the Museum District and Midtown.
Southgate
Southgate is close to major job opportunities, such as Rice University and the Medical District. You can also visit the Houston Zoo or Hermann Park, an urban green space. The area has a mix of large family homes and high-rise condos.
Which Areas in Houston Flood the Most?
Houston is home to many nice neighborhoods with very few flooding risks. However, there are also a few that are known for their floods. These include:
- Westbury
- Sunnyside
- Cottage Grove
If you decide to move into one of these neighborhoods, note that flood insurance and mold testing may be required before you move.
Westbury
Westbury, located in southwestern Houston, was developed in the 1950s and 1960s. Since then, the area’s drainage system has not been updated. Because of this, drainage can get backed up with even light rain, causing frequent flooding.
Sunnyside
Sunnyside, located on the city’s south side, also has an older drainage system that needs an overhaul. Any abundance of rain causes overflows, impeding travel along streets and sidewalks.
Cottage Grove
With an abundance of recently-developed townhomes, the drainage system in Cottage Grove has become overloaded.
Originally, this area was designed for homes with yards that would absorb rainwater. The area’s densely-packed townhomes mean less soil to soak up water, causing more rain to drain into the system and overload it.
How to Prepare For a Flood
Hearing that flooding could occur will heighten anyone’s anxiety. The fear of getting trapped or losing your belongings can take a toll on your emotions. The best thing to do is be prepared.
There are several things you can do to prepare for a flood. These can help save your life and your possessions.
- Know your risks. Flood waters can be extremely strong and carry off cars, knock down trees, and even sweep homes off their foundations.
- Get flood insurance. This is an extremely important precaution should you need to rebuild your home.
- Be prepared to evacuate. If you know a big storm is coming, prepare to evacuate by packing clothes, toiletries, medicine, and any important documents.
- Stock your emergency kit. Make sure you have plenty of bandages, pain medication, and antiseptics. You’ll also want water, canned foods (with a manual can opener), batteries, flashlights, toilet paper, or moist towelettes.
- Take inventory of your home. Ensure everything is listed correctly on your homeowner’s insurance policy. Most insurance providers offer a list you can download to fill in and keep with your other important documents.
If you end up in a flood and cannot evacuate, the most important thing is to stay put. It only takes a few inches of water to sweep an adult off their feet.
In Conclusion
Houston is a bustling city, full of museums, parks, restaurants, and nightlife. Although some areas flood quite a bit, others, such as Hyde Park and Afton Oaks, are not as prone to flooding.
If you end up in a flood, follow the tips above, such as stocking your emergency kits with water and medication and packing your important paperwork. If you get caught in a flood, move to higher ground and stay indoors if possible.
