Torrential rainfall inundated the Houston area on Monday morning, shutting down the city.
At least five people died in weather-related incidents and they were all found in their vehicles.
Houston officials said Monday's rainfall produced the largest flooding event since Tropical Storm Allison in 2001 because of the widespread nature.
City officials encouraged all residents to avoid travel as roadways were impassable. Most public school districts closed on Monday, with some of them remaining closed for Tuesday. The University of Houston canceled classes as well.
Debris was seen floating through city and residential streets as water rose as high as mailboxes in some areas. Well over 1,000 homes endured some type of flooding as of Monday evening, Ed Emmett, county judge of Harris County said, though that number is expected to rise.
More than 1,200 high-water rescues were performed from Sunday into Monday, officials said. The city opened several emergency shelters throughout the region.
In parts of western Harris County, more than 14 inches of rain fall in less than 24 hours. Parts of downtown Houston have received nearly 6 inches of rain in the past 24 hours.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued a state of disaster for nine counties on Monday evening.
