Rain easing in Houston area but flood threat continues as Wharton evacuates

HOUSTON (FOX 26/AP) - The flood-devastated Houston area could soon get a break from the rain after a deluge blamed for eight deaths.

The National Weather Service says a chance for showers continues Thursday but dwindles Friday. Saturday's forecast includes mostly sunny with highs in the 80s.

The Houston area received more than a foot of rain since last weekend, leading to flooding that inundated structures and forced thousands of people to evacuate.

Forecasters issued a flood warning for Harris, Waller and Austin counties through Thursday due to the impact of this week's heavy rain.

Some Southeast Texas school districts canceled classes again Thursday amid lingering floodwaters or damage. The Texas Education Agency says Houston-area districts that missed two days earlier this week get waivers and students won't have to make up the time.

Among the districts that are closed Thursday are Spring, Klein, Cypress-Fairbanks, and Wharton ISDs. Spring ISD and Klein ISD will also be closed on Friday.

The City of Wharton has issued a mandatory evacuation for the area. Schools will be closed on Friday.