Flash flood emergencies and evacuation orders have been issued across parts of the Texas Hill Country as heavy rainfall pushes rivers and creeks to dangerous levels, threatening homes, campgrounds, roads, and livestock.
The National Weather Service warned that rising water along the Nueces and Frio rivers, along with several tributaries, could worsen through Wednesday afternoon and night as runoff moves downstream. Residents in flood-prone areas have been urged to move to higher ground and remain alert.
Flash Flood Emergencies Issued
A flash flood emergency was declared for Boerne through Wednesday evening after up to 12 inches of rain fell in the area, with more rainfall possible. Local officials reported stranded residents and ongoing rescues, warning that neighborhoods not normally prone to flooding could also be affected.
Another flash flood emergency was issued near D’Hanis, where Seco Creek was forecast to rise enough to flood homes with up to five feet of water, or six feet if Parker Creek also overflows.
Evacuations Ordered Across Multiple Areas
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for some residents in Uvalde, with officials warning that additional evacuations may become necessary as river levels continue to rise.
The Uvalde Police Department has also urged residents near the Leona River to voluntarily evacuate and advised others to prepare for possible evacuation. In Zavala County, residents near the Nueces River were warned to prepare for flooding as the river is expected to crest near historic levels.
In Bandera County, evacuation orders have been issued for RV parks along the Medina River, which is forecast to rise nearly 14 feet.
Boerne officials also urged residents near Cibolo Creek in the Heart of Boerne, Evergreen, Yolana and West San Antonio Avenue areas to voluntarily evacuate or prepare to shelter in place. River Road has been closed in all directions.
Rescues Continue as Rivers Rise
At least 25 people had been rescued in Uvalde County by Wednesday morning, with additional rescue operations ongoing. A shelter remains open at the Uvalde County Fairplex for displaced residents.
Forecasters also warned of dangerous flooding along the Sabinal, Frio and Nueces rivers. The Frio River at Concan is expected to produce powerful flows capable of sweeping away RVs, vehicles and camping equipment, while flooding near Uvalde could trap livestock and inundate cropland.
Further downstream, the Nueces River near Crystal City is forecast to cause widespread lowland flooding, threatening homes, roads, fencing and livestock.
Meanwhile, the City of New Braunfels has temporarily closed the Comal River to recreational activities as officials continue urging residents to avoid flooded roads, obey barricades and monitor emergency updates with more rainfall expected.