San Antonio, Texas – Residents across south-central Texas face an ongoing, life-threatening flood emergency tonight as catastrophic flash flooding continues, with additional torrential rainfall expected through early Friday that could quickly overwhelm roads, neighborhoods and waterways.
According to the National Water Center and NOAA, widespread catastrophic flooding is expected to continue across portions of central and western Texas. Forecasters warn that an additional 5 to 10 inches of rain could fall through early Friday, with localized higher amounts possible. Rainfall rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour are expected in the heaviest storms, creating rapidly worsening conditions.
The greatest threat extends across the Texas Hill Country and south-central Texas, including areas near San Antonio, Del Rio, Sonora and Eagle Pass, where the highest flood risk is outlined. Rapid rises are expected on rivers, creeks, arroyos and normally dry washes, while widespread flash flooding may inundate neighborhoods, highways and low-water crossings with little warning.
Travel is strongly discouraged overnight. Flooding is expected to become especially dangerous after dark, when rising water is more difficult to recognize. Residents in flood-prone areas should be prepared to move to higher ground immediately if warnings are issued and should have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts.
Officials stress that motorists should never drive through flooded roadways. Even a small amount of moving water can sweep away a vehicle. Significant road closures, water rescues and evacuations are possible if the heaviest rainfall develops over populated areas.
The flood threat will continue through early Friday, and additional Flash Flood Warnings, Flash Flood Emergencies and river flood alerts are likely as this dangerous event unfolds.
