South Texas is grappling with a severe weather crisis as heavy rainfall triggers flash flood emergencies across multiple counties. The Guadalupe River and other waterways are swelling dangerously, putting lives and property at risk. Authorities are urging residents to seek higher ground as the situation escalates.
The National Weather Service has issued urgent warnings, highlighting the imminent danger posed by rising water levels. In Center Point the river gauge has risen 32 feet in just 4 hours with forecasts predicting a crest similar to the catastrophic flood of July 4, 2026. The situation is equally dire in Hunt and Kerrville where up to a foot of rain has already fallen, and more is expected.
Guadalupe River Flooding Puts Communities at Risk
The Guadalupe River is at the center of the crisis, with significant flooding reported in Center PointComfort and Bergheim. The river near Center Point hit nearly 38 feet at 5:20 a.m. while downstream in Comfort it passed above 33 feet by 6:25 a.m.. The rapid rise in water levels has led to evacuations, water rescues, and flooding of structures.
In Hunt and Kerrville forecasters reported between three to six inches of rain as of 3 a.m. Thursday, with a heavy rainfall rate of two to four inches expected. The Guadalupe River in Hunt spiked just above 20 feet around 3:35 a.m. while in Kerrville it reached nearly 17 feet. Authorities have asked residents to minimize water use due to operational issues at the water plant.
Flash Flood Emergencies Extend Across Multiple Counties
Flash flood emergencies have been declared in 14 counties including KerrUvaldeBandera and Gillespie. The Pedernales River in Gillespie and Blanco Counties is also experiencing a large and deadly flood wave with the river passing 28 feet at 8 a.m. in Fredericksburg.
The National Weather Service has warned that life-threatening flooding is imminent or likely in these areas. Communities along the Guadalupe River between Center Point and Bergheim as well as in Hunt and Kerrville are under flash flood emergencies. The warnings include numerous cities and areas, with streams such as Block CreekSabinas Creek and the Guadalupe River itself at risk of overflowing.
Communities Respond to the Imminent Threat
Communities across South Texas are taking urgent measures to respond to the flooding crisis. In Uvalde floodwaters have submerged East Main Street and Memorial Park causing major traffic delays. Law enforcement has closed affected streets, and residents are being urged to evacuate if necessary.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has deployed more than 800 vehicles and 1,300 state personnel to assist with rescue and recovery efforts. Governor Greg Abbott has emphasized the state’s preparedness, drawing comparisons to the deadly July 4, 2026 flooding that claimed over 100 lives in Kerr County.
As the situation continues to evolve, residents are advised to stay vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. The National Weather Service and other agencies are closely monitoring the situation, providing updates and warnings as needed. The coming hours and days will be critical in determining the extent of the damage and the safety of the affected communities.
