Lead: warnings issued for Uvalde, Texas on July 16
The National Weather Service issued a Severe Flood Warning and an Extreme Tornado Warning for Uvalde, Texas on July 16, 2026 covering the Sabinal River at Sabinal and central Uvalde County. The flood warning remained in effect until 6:00 AM CDT with the river expected to rise above flood stage this morning and again tomorrow afternoon. The extreme tornado warning covered the area until 2:30 AM CDT after a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was observed near Knippa moving northwest.
Why the warnings matter
The dual alerts combined a rising river threat and an active tornado hazard for residents and travelers in the area. Minor lowland flooding was forecast with the Sabinal River expected to reach a crest of 12.8 feet, which could cause water to cover low-lying roads, crossings and bridges. Simultaneously, an extreme tornado warning signaled that a tornado was occurring or imminent, with the possibility of flying debris, damaged mobile homes, and tree and structural damage. Authorities advised the public to follow official instructions and to call 911 in emergencies.
Flood details and safety guidance
The flood bulletin specified that the Sabinal River could crest at 12.8 feet this afternoon and again tomorrow afternoon, producing minor flooding in adjacent lowlands and affecting transportation routes. The statement warned that residents may encounter water over roads and bridges and repeated the safety admonition to “turn around and do not drown when encountering flooded roads,” noting that most flood deaths occur in vehicles. The warning emphasized avoiding walking or driving through floodwaters because of uncertain depth and flow speed and urged continuous monitoring of updates from official weather channels.
Tornado warning specifics and recommended actions
The tornado alert indicated a severe thunderstorm located near Knippa at 1:56 AM CDT moving northwest at 5 mph, and declared that “this type of warning indicates that a tornado is occurring or is imminent.” It cautioned that flying debris could be dangerous and that mobile homes could be damaged or destroyed. Residents were instructed to move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and to avoid windows. Those outdoors, in vehicles or in mobile homes were urged to seek the closest substantial shelter and protect themselves from flying debris. The warnings noted that torrential rainfall accompanying the storm could cause flash flooding, reinforcing the message to avoid flooded roadways. Last updated: July 16, 2026.
