AUSTIN, July 16 – Flash flood emergencies have been declared across parts of central Texas, including Uvalde County and Kerr County, after relentless rainfall triggered life-threatening flooding, forcing evacuations and prompting widespread rescue operations.
The National Weather Service issued its highest-level alerts, warning of a “large and deadly flood wave” moving along rivers including the Guadalupe River, as water levels surged rapidly following days of intense storms.
Communities such as Kerrville, Ingram, and Hunt in Kerr County, along with areas across Uvalde County, saw rivers rise dramatically within hours. Gauges along the Guadalupe River recorded sharp increases, with some locations reaching flood stage before dawn as heavy rain continued to fall.
Authorities reported that between 10 and 20 inches of rain had fallen in parts of the region over a 48-hour period, overwhelming drainage systems and saturating already vulnerable terrain. Floodwaters surged through towns, submerging roads, isolating neighborhoods, and forcing residents to flee or seek higher ground.
Emergency responders, including state rescue teams, local fire departments, and Texas Game Wardens, have carried out dozens of water rescues using boats and helicopters. More than 70 people have been rescued so far, with over 1,000 personnel deployed across affected counties.
Governor Greg Abbott confirmed at least one fatality and warned that conditions could worsen as additional rainfall is forecast. Officials have issued evacuation orders in low-lying areas and urged residents to avoid travel, noting that rapidly rising waters can turn roads and low-water crossings into deadly hazards within minutes.
In Uvalde, floodwaters cut off parts of the city overnight, while in nearby communities, entire neighborhoods and RV parks were placed under evacuation alerts. Rivers including the Leona and Frio also rose sharply, compounding the regional impact.
Meteorologists attribute the severity of the flooding to slow-moving storm systems combined with tropical moisture, repeatedly dumping heavy rain over the same areas. The Texas Hill Country, often referred to as “Flash Flood Alley,” is particularly prone to such घटनों due to its steep terrain and shallow soil, which accelerate runoff.
The unfolding disaster comes just a year after catastrophic flooding in the same region caused significant loss of life, raising renewed concerns about preparedness and early warning systems.
With more rain expected and rivers still rising, authorities emphasize that the situation remains highly dangerous. Residents across central Texas are being urged to stay alert, follow evacuation orders, and monitor official updates as emergency operations continue.