AUSTIN, Texas — Dozens of residents in one North Austin neighborhood are still dealing with the aftermath of flood damage in their homes. And with a Flood Watch set to go into effect Friday evening across Central Texas, they're hoping lightning doesn't strike twice.
Ryan Albright and his wife, who have been forced into an Airbnb, have been in the process of renovating their home ever since floodwaters crept in from Little Walnut Creek on April 20.
"Our house is already gutted. There's only flood cuts in there. Our furniture is already ruined. We're already paying thousands of dollars to repair the exterior that's not covered by flood policies," Albright said.
Albright said the incident could have been prevented had the City of Austin cleared debris that left a blockage from a storm culvert – a concern he and several other neighbors raised to the City.
On May 4, City leaders approved a resolution that would speed up the cleaning process and reimburse neighbors. However, Albright said more needs to be done to prevent further damage when severe weather does arrive.
"We are three weeks, maybe four weeks since the flood. Like I said, the help from the City so far to date has been barely existent," Albright said.
On Thursday, Watershed Protection crews were out clearing debris from culverts. KVUE reached out to the Watershed Protection Department about what it is doing to keep folks prepared ahead of storms.
A spokesperson sent a press release that encouraged Austinites to be prepared for flash flooding and offered tips on what to do.
For example, officials said to stay away from creeks, pipes and drainage infrastructure; to not cross flooded roadways; to avoid contact with floodwaters; and to call 911 for emergencies.