In a response to ongoing heavy rain and severe storms, Lake Livingston and Lake Conroe in Montgomery County, Texas, have begun releasing large volumes of water, raising concerns about significant flooding in the area. According to officials, Lake Livingston is currently releasing a record-breaking 124,000 cubic feet of water per second, exceeding the previous record set during Hurricane Harvey in 1994. Similarly, Lake Conroe has also begun releasing water at a rate of 13,400 cubic feet per second due to the excessive rainfall.

The excessive rainfall has caused Walker and northern Montgomery counties to experience rainfall totals as high as 16 inches overnight. The saturated grounds and the influx of water into the lakes have prompted authorities to enact the significant water releases in an effort to prevent an uncontrolled release situation that could potentially endanger lives.

Residents south of Lake Conroe Dam near the San Jacinto River have been urged to take immediate action and prepare for significant flooding. Jason Millsaps from the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management emphasized the severity of the situation, advising residents to move to higher ground, secure their valuables, and be prepared to evacuate quickly.

Officials predict that the impact of the water releases will become evident by early Thursday afternoon, as the water makes its way south towards I-45. The Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management has been collaborating with the San Jacinto River Authority to monitor the downstream effects of the releases. Millsaps explained that the increase in releases is necessary as the lakes continue to receive a substantial amount of water.

The ABC13 Weather Team has extended the ABC13 Weather Alert Day from Thursday into Friday due to the persistent threat of heavy rain. The concern of flooding extends beyond the Lake Conroe area, as Lake Livingston is also releasing more water than previously observed earlier in the week.

As the flooding situation unfolds, Montgomery County residents are advised to stay aware of updates from local authorities and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.