Texas Gov. Greg Abbott Declares Disaster Status Amid Threat of Catastrophic Flooding in South Texas

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott activated a disaster declaration covering 59 counties after severe storms sent heavy rainfall through the southern part of the state. The threat of catastrophic flooding remains high through Friday, with forecasters warning of potential rainfall rates of two to four inches per hour. The National Weather Service has issued a high risk of excessive rainfall across areas including the Edwards Plateau and the Hill Country. Rivers, including the Pecos and U.S. 90 corridor, have risen rapidly, prompting multiple swiftwater rescues by the Texas Game Wardens. In a statement, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott emphasized that the declaration ensures state resources can be rapidly deployed to protect communities. Officials urged residents to monitor local forecasts and avoid driving through flooded roadways, citing already saturated ground conditions. The severe weather pattern is creating a difficult environment for travel, with significant flooding risk noted across multiple western and southern counties. The administration’s deployment of resources reflects the scope of the ongoing threat to the region.

Sources

• ‘Worst-case’ flood scenario underway in southern Texas where dozens have already been rescued — CNN
• Where is the flooding in Texas? See counties impacted by storms — USA Today
• Floodwaters rage across parts of Texas — FOX 7 Austin
• Considerable to catastrophic flooding likely through Thursday in Texas, forecasters say — Yahoo