Texas Flooding Emergency: Catastrophic Rainfall Sparks Deadly Flash Floods Across Central Texas

The Texas flooding emergency intensified Friday morning as devastating rainfall engulfed central parts of the state, sending rivers surging and communities scrambling for safety. In Kerrville and surrounding areas, the Guadalupe River swelled to record-breaking levels, prompting widespread evacuations and rescue missions.

Texas Flooding Emergency Declared in Kerrville and Beyond

Central Texas is currently experiencing a full-scale Texas flooding emergency after relentless overnight storms dropped as much as 12 to 15 inches of rain in some locations. The hardest-hit counties include Kerr, Kendall, Tom Green, and parts of San Angelo, where homes, roads, and parks are underwater.

In Kerrville, city officials issued a disaster declaration as the Guadalupe River approached 30 feet—its second-highest measurement in recorded history. The rising waters turned deadly, with the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office confirming multiple fatalities, though details are withheld pending family notification.

Life-Threatening Conditions Prompt Warnings and Flash Flood Emergencies

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued multiple Flash Flood Emergencies overnight and into Friday, particularly warning residents near the Guadalupe River from Center Point to Sisterdale.

“This is a particularly dangerous situation,” the NWS stated. “Seek higher ground now.” Kerrville officials echoed these warnings, urging residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately.

Rescue Efforts Underway Amid Texas Flooding Emergency

Emergency crews in Kerrville, San Angelo, and neighboring towns worked tirelessly through the night and into Friday morning. Swift-water rescue teams were deployed to assist those stranded in vehicles, cabins, and homes. In Kerrville-Schreiner Park, floodwaters invaded rental cabins, prompting urgent evacuations.

A Walmart store in Kerrville has been temporarily converted into a shelter for displaced residents, while local police and fire departments continue to respond to emergency calls.

Unprecedented Rainfall Breaks Records

Meteorologists described the event as a 1-in-100-year rainfall, with 6.5 inches falling in just three hours near Hunt, close to Kerrville. The extreme rainfall overwhelmed local drainage systems and caused rapid rises in creeks and rivers.

In San Angelo, where July usually sees about 1 inch of rain, residents witnessed up to 10 inches in less than 12 hours. According to NOAA, the Guadalupe River rose 22 feet in just three hours, a shocking surge that led to the failure of a river gauge due to overwhelming flood pressure.

Climate Change and Repeated Flood Disasters in Texas

This Texas flooding emergency is part of a troubling pattern. The United States recorded a historic number of flash flood emergencies last year, and Texas has faced several devastating flood events in 2025 alone.

Experts warn that as global temperatures rise, extreme weather events—including intense rainfall and flash floods—will become more frequent. A recent study noted that hourly rainfall rates have increased in nearly 90% of large U.S. cities since 1970, a direct consequence of climate change.

Infrastructure and Travel Disrupted Across Central Texas

As the Texas flooding emergency unfolds, transportation has come to a standstill. Roads in Kerrville, San Angelo, and neighboring areas are submerged or washed out, making travel extremely dangerous. The NWS in San Angelo advised all residents to shelter in place and avoid venturing onto flooded roadways.

Power outages and communication disruptions have also been reported in several communities, further complicating rescue efforts.

Flash Flood Watches Remain in Effect Across the Region

As of Friday afternoon, Flash Flood Watches remain in place across West Texas and parts of New Mexico. Weather models show that an additional 3 to 5 inches of rain could fall in already saturated areas through Saturday.

A stationary front and upper-level disturbance over the Four Corners region are combining to fuel continued storm activity. Meteorologists warn that any new rainfall could trigger more flash floods and further escalate the Texas flooding emergency.

Authorities Urge Vigilance and Preparedness

Local authorities are collaborating with state and federal agencies to manage the crisis. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office urged residents to “move to higher ground immediately” if they live near the Guadalupe River, streams, or creeks.

“The entire county is an extremely active scene,” officials stated. “Do not attempt travel unless absolutely necessary.”

Shelters are open, emergency hotlines are active, and first responders are operating around the clock to prevent further loss of life.

Final Thoughts on the Texas Flooding Emergency

The unfolding Texas flooding emergency serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and destructive power of nature. As recovery and rescue operations continue, Texans are showing resilience in the face of adversity.

With rain still in the forecast, staying informed and prepared is crucial. Follow updates from the National Weather Service, local authorities, and emergency response teams to stay safe during this ongoing crisis.

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