Texas is once again facing significant flooding due to heavy rainfall, prompting authorities to suspend search efforts for those missing from last week’s devastating events. Residents near the San Saba River are being urged to evacuate as flood risks escalate.
Last night, officials in Kerrville went door-to-door to warn residents about the impending floods, also sending emergency alerts to mobile phones. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed on X that rescue operations are underway in multiple locations, including Lampasas, Menard, Kimble, and Sutton, all of which are undergoing evacuations. Abbott also expressed gratitude for assistance from the governor of New Jersey.
The National Weather Service predicts that the Guadalupe River could crest at nearly 4.6 meters (approximately 15 feet) by Sunday afternoon, far exceeding flood stage levels. This has already led to roads and bridges being submerged in several areas.
Rescue Efforts Amidst Rising Waters
Today, rescue services successfully saved a motorist who was trapped on a flooded bridge spanning the Bosque River. The individual was found clinging to their vehicle and was safely brought ashore by emergency personnel.
While current rainfall is not expected to match last week’s intensity, weather experts caution that the region remains highly vulnerable due to already saturated soil conditions, increasing the likelihood of flash floods.
Approximately one hundred homes have already sustained damage from the ongoing flooding. Ashley Johnson, director of a local organization in San Saba, described the widespread destruction in the rural community. “Everything you can imagine… is damaged,” Johnson stated, adding, “Our blessing is that it was day and we knew it was coming.”
Ongoing Search for Missing Persons
Last week’s floods resulted in at least 129 fatalities, with the Guadalupe River rising approximately eight meters due to the torrential rain. Around 160 people remain unaccounted for, with Kerrville, located in the southern part of Texas, reporting the majority of victims.
Authorities anticipate resuming the search for the missing individuals tomorrow.
This video explains how a mix of extreme conditions caused the previous floods in Texas:
