The National Weather Service has extended a Severe Flood Warning for Angelina and Nacogdoches Counties in Texas until 22:15 on 18 June 2026, covering the Angelina River at Hwy 59 near Lufkin. The latest forecast indicates minor flooding, with the river rising above the 161.0-foot flood stage and continuing toward a crest of 161.7 feet Monday evening. Last update: 18 June 2026.
The extension matters because flooding is imminent or occurring along a river corridor that affects homes, businesses, and travel routes in low-lying areas. Updated projections suggest a higher crest than earlier estimates, increasing the risk of water overflows across banks and localized inundation. Residents are urged to prepare for possible road closures and to follow official instructions as conditions evolve.
Warning timeline and forecast levels
An earlier bulletin placed the warning in effect until 15:00 on 17 June 2026, anticipating the river would rise above flood stage on Wednesday morning and reach around 161.0 feet. The updated alert extends coverage through the evening of 18 June 2026 and refines the forecast: the river is expected to rise above flood stage late Sunday morning and continue upward to a crest near 161.7 feet Monday evening. Flood stage at this location is 161.0 feetand values near or above that threshold can push water across vulnerable banks.
At 161.0 feet, officials expect minor impacts such as overflow across the left bank and flooding of parking areas near the river. With a potential crest of 161.7 feet, these effects could expand, with additional low-lying zones experiencing shallow inundation. The focus area remains the Hwy 59 crossing near Lufkinwhere rises are monitored closely for changes that could affect nearby neighborhoods and access points.
Local impacts and safety guidance
Communities adjacent to the Angelina River may encounter pooled water in low-lying areasbrief disruptions to local roads, and limits on access to riverfront facilities. Authorities emphasize that most flood fatalities occur in vehicles. Drivers should not attempt to go around barricades or enter water-covered roadways—turn around, don’t drown. Caution is urged when walking near saturated or unstable riverbanks.
Residents should prepare for minor flooding, secure property located near the river, and stay alert for rapid updates from local officials. In an emergency, call 911. Monitoring of gauge readings near Hwy 59 will continue, and any further adjustments to the Severe Flood Warning or forecast crest will be communicated through official channels as conditions develop.
