Hurricane Season Car Care: Protecting Your Vehicle in Houston
Houston's location means hurricane season brings a real risk of heavy rain and street flooding every year. A little preparation before a storm can save your car from serious damage — and keep you safer on the road.
Before a Storm Hits
- Charge your phone and keep a car charger accessible
- Check your tire tread and pressure — good tires matter even more in heavy rain
- Have your battery tested if it's more than a few years old
- Keep your gas tank at least half full in case of evacuation or extended power outages at stations
- Move your vehicle to higher ground if flooding is forecast for your area
Build a Small Emergency Kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Drinking water and non-perishable snacks
- A basic first aid kit
- Phone numbers for towing and roadside assistance saved offline
Never Drive Into Standing Water
It's the single most important rule during Houston's rainy season. As little as 12 inches of moving water can float a car, and it's often impossible to judge depth or road damage underneath. If you see standing water on the road, turn around and find another route.
If Your Car Stalls in High Water
- Do not try to restart the engine — this can cause serious internal engine damage if water has entered the intake
- Get to higher, dry ground if it's safe to do so
- Call for a tow rather than attempting to drive it further
- Avoid opening doors if water is above the door sill and still rising — wait for water to recede or for help to arrive
After the Storm
Even if your car seems fine, a vehicle that was driven through deep water should be inspected before regular use again. Water in the engine, transmission, or electrical system isn't always obvious right away.
If your vehicle stalls out or floods during a Houston storm, Citywide Towing Services is available 24/7 to get it to safety and to a shop you trust.