In Houston, flooding is a constant threat, from heavy rains to full-blown hurricanes. The aftermath is often chaotic and costly, with residents struggling to reclaim their homes from debris and water damage. According to Understanding Houston, more than 322,000 homes are at risk of flooding. Many areas, particularly those home to Black and brown communities, are at an increased risk due to poor infrastructure and outdated drainage systems. Doris Brown, codirector of community research, organizing, and development at West Street Recovery, which was born after Hurricane Harvey, offers some insights on navigating this wet terrain.

What is your experience with floods in Houston?

My first flood was in 1961 when [Hurricane] Carla hit. Now I live in Scenic Woods, and I’ve been out here for 56 years. During this time, we have flooded several times. We don’t have any drainage. The drainage is poor and antiquated. We flood even when there is heavy rain. We realized that with all the flooding, we have to look out for ourselves. A lot of residents got together, and we decided to do something about all the flooding.

How should residents begin the cleanup process after a flooding event?

The first thing you do is start taking pictures before you try to get the stuff off the floor, before it develops mold. Tear up the carpets, take all the damaged sheetrock and different things out, try to alleviate the mold, and try to get clean air in. Everything that has been destroyed, you sit it out.

Are there ways to prepare?

Something that I think would be really good for people is to have a rain garden or something that will lead to drainage. Have a bag in case you have to evacuate. In this bag you would have canned food, some nutrient bars, some water. You can keep a plastic waterproof bag [for your] papers and pictures. Prepare to evacuate if you have to evacuate.

How does West Street Recovery help?

My house is a hub home. I have generators and electrical stuff. We also provide solar batteries. My house is like a port in a storm, if you want to come and charge up your batteries or you need a flashlight. Every neighborhood needs to try to set up one. So if it occurs, you’re able to take care of yourself and help your neighbors. We do house repairs. The things that the insurance companies do not do. People come to us for help, and that’s what we do.