The state of Texas is grappling with a severe flooding crisis, with Governor Greg Abbott warning residents to remain vigilant as rivers continue to rise. Despite the easing of heavy rainfall, the danger persists, particularly along the Nueces River in Uvalde.
On Friday, Abbott signed a major disaster declaration unlocking federal assistance for impacted communities. This move comes as rescue operations continue and the state begins transitioning into cleanup and recovery phases.
Ongoing Flood Threats and Rescue Operations
The Nueces River remains a critical area of concern, with Abbott noting that Uvalde almost became an island due to the surrounding floodwaters. The ongoing threat is exacerbated by rainfall flowing downstream into already overflooded rivers and streams.
Nim Kidd Chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management emphasized that even a small amount of additional rain could have equally catastrophic impacts. “We are not out of this fight yet,” Kidd stated, stressing that life safety remains our number one priority.
As of Friday afternoon, more than 2,700 personnel1,500 vehicles90 boats and over 20 aircraft have been deployed in response to the flooding. State resources have carried out more than 270 rescues with local officials in the Uvalde and Zavalla areas alone rescuing over 300 people.
Infrastructure Damage and Recovery Efforts
Flooding along the Nueces River has caused significant infrastructure damage, including the destruction of part of the FM 481 bridge southwest of Uvalde. This bridge, known locally as Old Eagle Pass Road is a key connection between Uvalde and Eagle Pass. Its closure is expected to create lengthy detours for residents, ranchers, agricultural workers, and commercial traffic.
The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that powerful floodwaters washed away a section of the bridge after days of heavy rain dropped as much as 20 inches in parts of Uvalde County. While U.S. 90 through Uvalde has reopened after earlier flooding, many roads across the region remain closed, damaged, or awaiting inspection.
As floodwaters begin to recede, state officials are preparing to shift into recovery while continuing rescue operations. Abbott said the state will work with local governments to expedite debris removal and rebuilding efforts. The Texas Department of Transportation is also focusing on reopening roads after Uvalde was nearly cut off by floodwaters.
Community Support and Assistance
About 125 people remain in shelters in the Uvalde area, and the statewide death toll stands at two, including one man whose vehicle was swept away four miles north of Uvalde on Thursday. In the coming days, emergency crews will continue response and recovery operations, working simultaneously across the state’s many affected communities.
As conditions improve, volunteer organizations are preparing to assist with cleanup. Kidd encouraged homeowners with flood insurance to contact their insurance company as soon as possible. Abbott also noted that Texas has received assistance from states including OklahomaLouisianaColorado and Florida.
Texans looking to support recovery efforts can donate through the Texas One Fund at . “We are not done with this yet,” Abbott said, emphasizing the importance of sharing information with the public about the ongoing dangers.