AUSTIN, Texas — Central and southwest Texas are once again facing a dangerous flooding emergency as another round of slow-moving thunderstorms dumped heavy rain across the region on Wednesday. The relentless downpours have already triggered dozens of water rescues, and forecasters warn that additional rainfall through Friday could bring life-threatening flash flooding to communities already overwhelmed by days of rain.
The renewed flood threat comes just months after devastating flash floods struck Texas Hill Country, where more than 130 people lost their lives last July.
Flood Emergency Intensifies Across Texas
The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) issued its highest level of excessive rainfall risk for the second consecutive day, marking the first back-to-back top-level flood alerts since April 2025.
Much of the greatest concern remains centered on Texas Hill Country, the Edwards Plateau, and the Rio Grande Valley, where many locations have already received 6 to 12 inches of rain since Monday.
“This type of pattern where storms repeatedly hit the same areas is a ‘worst-case scenario,’” the Weather Prediction Center warned, as saturated ground leaves little capacity to absorb additional rainfall.
Dozens Rescued as Floodwaters Rise
Emergency crews have been responding to rapidly rising floodwaters across several counties.
By Tuesday evening, officials reported that at least 45 people had been rescued from floodwaters in Uvalde County, while additional water rescues were carried out in neighboring Medina County. In response to the growing emergency, Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster for 59 counties, allowing additional state resources to assist affected communities.
Authorities continue urging residents to avoid flooded roads, reminding drivers that floodwaters can become deadly within minutes.
Millions Under Flood Watches
Flood watches remain in effect for more than six million people, including residents in Austin, San Antonio, Del Rio, and San Angelo.
Forecasters expect storms to produce rainfall rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour, increasing the likelihood of flash flooding in urban neighborhoods, low-lying roads, and areas near creeks and rivers.
Officials also warned that some rivers could experience moderate to major flooding if repeated rounds of heavy rain continue through Thursday.
Up to 15 Inches of Rain Possible
Meteorologists say rainfall will gradually decrease by Friday, but not before some areas receive significant additional precipitation.
The hardest-hit locations could accumulate up to 15 inches of rain by the end of the week. Del Rio alone may receive more than 6 inches, nearly matching its typical rainfall for the entire summer season.
Although the highest flood risk is expected to shrink slightly on Thursday, flooding concerns will continue across portions of western and central Texas, with localized flooding also possible near Houston.
Why the Flooding Keeps Getting Worse
Weather experts say the flooding is being fueled by a combination of abundant Gulf moisture, a stalled weather front, and an upper-level disturbance, creating slow-moving storm clusters capable of producing intense rainfall over the same locations for hours.
The terrain in Texas Hill Country also makes the region especially vulnerable. Steep slopes, shallow soils, and exposed limestone prevent water from soaking into the ground, causing runoff to rapidly fill creeks and rivers.
Officials continue urging residents to stay informed through local weather alerts and to move to higher ground if flash flood warnings are issued.
What are your thoughts on the repeated flooding emergencies affecting Texas? Should more be done to strengthen flood preparedness and emergency response? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
