UVALDE, Texas – South Texas is currently experiencing significant rainfall from slow-moving storms. Just a day after heavy downpours caused road washouts and flooded farmland, the region is bracing for more rain, raising concerns about flash flooding.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for potential flash floods in various areas, predicting that some regions could see between 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 centimeters) of rain by the time the storms finally clear out on Thursday evening.
So far, there have been no reports of fatalities or injuries related to the flooding. However, flash flood warnings were posted early Wednesday for several counties, especially those near the Mexico border, like Kerr County. This area was devastated by catastrophic flooding last year, which tragically resulted in over 100 deaths. Local officials are in close contact with summer camps and retreat centers that might be affected by rising river waters.
Uvalde County has reported the highest rainfall totals thus far, with some areas receiving up to 16 inches (40 centimeters), according to the weather service.
Monte Oaks, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, noted that this kind of weather pattern is typical for mid-summer in Texas. He explained that about once every five years, a stagnant low-pressure system can lead to continuous heavy rainfall, fueled by tropical moisture primarily from the Gulf of Mexico and some from the Pacific Ocean.
The areas most at risk for serious flooding on Wednesday were located west of San Antonio and north of Route 90, according to weather experts.
In response to the ongoing weather crisis, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued disaster declarations for several counties affected by the storms.
Emergency services shared videos showing rescue teams navigating flooded streets. Recently, five individuals were rescued by the Texas Game Warden Search and Rescue Team, and four others were saved by a local game warden, as confirmed by Maggie Berger from Texas Parks and Wildlife.
Uvalde has been particularly hard-hit by the flooding, with reports of at least two dozen water rescues. Local officials have opened a community center to provide shelter for those displaced by the floods, and additional shelter plans are underway in Sabinal.
This situation highlights the importance of preparedness and community support in the face of natural disasters.
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Associated Press writer Dave Collins in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed to this report.
