Houston before and after Tropical Storm Harvey

Houston's skyline and Interstate 45 before the heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm Harvey.

On this picture, interstate 45 is submerged from the effects of the storm. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warned the storm would have a major long-term impact.

Quiet Valley Rock Drive before the storm.

A man waves down a rescue crew as he tries to leave the area after it was inundated. FEMA director Brock Long: "The recovery from this disaster is going to be years."

Theaters, cinemas, Bayou Place and the Aquarium are located in Houston's "Theatre District" in downtown.

As this picture suggests, buzzing nightlife won't be seen here for quite some time.

Tidwell Road in northeast Houston before....

Rescue boats evacuate the street as floodwaters rise. South of the city, an evacuation order has been issued after a levee was breached.

Two weeks ago, President Donald Trump rolled back an order by his predecessor that would have made it easier for storm-ravaged communities to use federal emergency aid to rebuild bridges, roads and other construction so they can better withstand future disasters.

Interstate 69 is covered by floodwaters from Harvey. Trump's decision is now being questioned, especially with a view to future incidents, as the Texas Gulf Coast and much of Houston under water in the wake of Harvey.