Tropical Storm Imelda Updates

In the last 48 hours, the greater Houston area and Southeast Texas was pummeled with rain from Tropical Storm Imelda. The storm has dumped feet of rain in some neighborhoods. 

We have seen isolated flooding throughout the city and more significant concentrations of flooding to the North, Northeast, 

and East.

As Imelda's remnant departs the immediate area, we will have an opportunity to assess the damage in our neighborhoods and prepare for the cleanup of the storm's aftermath.

Hang Tight.

Friday will be a day of assessment and preparation. Please focus on the following:

• We encourage congregations to assess what damage has occurred in their immediate neighborhoods. Congregations should address local needs as they are able. Please let us know if you'll need help.
  
• We know that our neighbors to the North, Northeast, and East will need our help. Please begin to organize teams of volunteers to help in these communities as soon as this weekend.
  
• Please share the name and contact information of a representative who can help us coordinate our volunteer response link
  
• Expect an email from us Friday with the "Dos and Don'ts of Mucking and Gutting" and "Cleaning Up After a Flood."

Saturday

We expect the cleanup effort to start in earnest on Saturday. Once you address your immediate neighbor's needs, we hope to be able to suggest or direct you to areas that need additional help. We'll host a conference call Saturday morning sharing what we know about communities that need a helping hand. Register here to volunteer with Hope Disaster Recovery.

Remember, This is Not a Sprint.

We encourage you to pray for all those already affected by the storm. Pray for the first responders. Pray for those who will help with the recovery. And, pray for patience and relief from the anxiety we all feel as we see this familiar story unfold again.