With Southeast Texas experiencing several days of torrential rainfall—and forecasters warning that even heavier rains may be on the way—flooding is once again a major concern throughout the Greater Houston area. Wednesday, June 17, is expected to bring some of the most significant rainfall of the week, raising the possibility of flash flooding, roadway closures, and disruptions across the region. The weather arrives at an especially busy time, with the Astros hosting the Detroit Tigers at home through Wednesday, and a whirlwind of FIFA World Cup 2026 events taking place in downtown. FanFest, FIFA’s World Cup celebration destination where fans can “experience the soul of football in the heart of Houston” is open through June 19th, and a match between Portugal and DR Congo is scheduled for noon on Wednesday, during—potentially—some of the worst rain swells in the forecast.
The timing of this week’s storms is also a reminder that the Atlantic hurricane season is now underway. While hurricanes and tropical storms often receive the most attention, significant flood damage can also result from slow-moving thunderstorms, prolonged periods of heavy rain, overflowing bayous, and overwhelmed storm drainage systems.
Now may be a good time to learn about the legal avenues for recovering losses sustained as a result of flooding. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive treatise addressing this issue, attorney Douglas Scott MacGregor authored A Legal Guide to Recovering for Flood Losses.
One major source of recovery for flood-related damage comes from insurance. MacGregor’s book discusses a wide range of policies and coverage issues, including:
Standard water damage exclusions and limitations
Standard property insurance policies
Private flood insurance policies
FEMA Standard Flood Insurance Policies
Business interruption and related insurance coverage
Builder's risk insurance
Boiler and machinery or equipment breakdown insurance
Commercial general liability insurance
Directors and officers insurance
Automobile insurance policies
Insurance is not always the only potential source of recovery, however. Tort law may also provide remedies in certain circumstances. For example, liability may arise from duties owed by insurance agents and brokers, commercial landlords and tenants, governmental entities, contractors, and, in some situations, weather forecasters or others whose negligence may have contributed to a loss.
If you're interested in understanding the legal issues surrounding flood damage and recovery, take a look at A Legal Guide to Recovering for Flood Losses. The title is available in print at the Harris County Robert W. Hainsworth Law Library and as an eBook through the LexisNexis Digital Library.