ALAMO, Texas — South Texas is in recovery mode after intense thunderstorms resulted in significant flooding, stranding numerous drivers and prompting extensive water rescues. Many vehicles were abandoned across roads and parking lots, with some areas experiencing as much as a foot of rain.
Alamo Fire Department Chief R.C. Flores emphasized the challenges faced by local emergency services, stating, “We’ve experienced a deluge that the drainage systems cannot handle. While many stranded motorists are not in immediate danger, our priority remains on medical emergencies first.”
On Thursday alone, the fire and police departments responded to over 50 water rescue calls.
Footage from affected areas highlighted numerous water-logged vehicles abandoned on streets, as drivers awaited the waters to recede.
The National Weather Service reported that parts of South Texas saw between 6 inches (15 centimeters) and 12 inches (30 centimeters) of rain in just 24 hours, with Palmview, west of McAllen, receiving over 18 inches (45 centimeters) within two days.
A flood warning remains in effect for regions including Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy counties, as alert levels continue through Friday afternoon.
The National Weather Service provided an update confirming a brief respite from rain this morning, which may allow for some floodwaters to recede. However, they cautioned that any new rainfall could exacerbate existing flooding conditions.
In response to the severe weather, the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo school district opened two emergency shelters for affected residents.
As a precaution, more than 20 school districts and college campuses throughout South Texas canceled classes on Friday due to the ongoing weather crisis.
