Oct. 16, 2006, 9:33AM
Heavy rains pose flooding risk, driving dangers

A series of thunderstorms saturated much of the greater Houston area overnight, setting up a messy commute this morning and possibly heavier flooding later today.

Up to half a foot of rain fell overnight, with rainfall exceeding seven inches near downtown Houston and in east Harris County. Southern Brazoria County has also received more than half a foot.

County officials reported the following bayous out of their banks: Halls Bayou at Jensen and at Airline, Clear Creek Bayou at Highway 288 and at Bay Area Blvd., South Mayde Creek at Greenhouse, Cypress Creek at Cypress Wood, White Oak Bayou at Lakeview, Hunting Bayou at Lockwood, Chigger Creek at Windsong, Cedar Bayou at SH-146 and Brays Bayou at Lawndale.

Officials also said several other bayous, including upper Greens and White Oak, were near the tops of their banks.

Local officials are most concerned that the afternoon rainfall could push the bayous past a tipping point.