POLK COUNTY, Texas – A year after devastating floods swept through parts of East Texas, the community of Holiday Lake Estates in Polk County is still picking up the pieces—and preparing for whatever nature throws at them next.
In April 2024, relentless rainfall forced officials to release more than 94,000 cubic feet per second from the Lake Livingston Dam. The resulting surge caused the Trinity River to overflow, submerging homes, roads, and entire neighborhoods. Holiday Lake Estates was among the hardest-hit, left underwater for weeks. Mandatory evacuations were ordered, and some families fled with little more than the clothes on their backs.
“I’ve lived here over 30 years,” said longtime resident Mary Ann Foster. “I’ve seen floods, but nothing like this. It just kept coming.”
The water may have receded, but the scars remain. Many homes were damaged beyond repair. Mold and structural issues rendered others uninhabitable. As recovery efforts continue, residents are slowly rebuilding—both physically and emotionally.
Despite the hardship, the community pulled together in remarkable ways. Neighbors used boats and jet skis to deliver food, water, and clothing to those stranded. Local businesses provided hot meals and shelter. Volunteers, some from neighboring counties, stepped in to help gut flooded homes and clear debris.
“We saw the best of humanity in the worst of times,” said Polk County Commissioner Tommy Overstreet. “This community didn’t just wait for help—they became the help.”
Now, attention is turning to the future. County officials and residents are working on new flood mitigation strategies, including better drainage systems, updated infrastructure, and clear evacuation protocols. While funding remains a challenge, officials are hopeful that state and federal support will bolster their efforts.
“Last year taught us that we have to be prepared,” Overstreet said. “We can’t stop the rain, but we can make sure it doesn’t destroy lives and homes again.”
For the residents of Holiday Lake Estates, recovery is more than rebuilding houses—it’s about restoring hope, and ensuring that when the next storm comes, they’ll be ready.
