Precautions To Take For Flash Flood Season In Texas

This hurricane season is forecast to be especially active, but flash flooding can occur independently of tropical systems. From the Gulf Coast to the Hill Country to way out in the West Texas desert, no area of the state is immune — and conditions can turn treacherous quickly. Here’s what you need to know:

Whether from a tropical system or regular thunderstorm, flash floods are the leading cause of weather-related death in Texas. Areas most commonly affected include the West, Hill Country, and Gulf Coast.

This is a picture from the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, which initially hit Rockport before re-entering the Gulf, making a second landfall, and dumping 60 inches of rain on the Southeast Texas area in 2017. Last year, Tropical Storm Imelda devastated the very same area with over 30 inches in some isolated spots.

Paying attention to weather alerts is imperative during flood season. Conditions can change rapidly, however, so always observe your surroundings closely even if no advisories have been issued.

In hilly terrain such as the Austin area, flash floods can strike with little to no warning. Be aware of rising water in streams and rivers, and watch for unusually hard rain that doesn't subside after several hours -- or, alternatively, moderate rainfall persisting steadily for days.

Camping is a popular activity during flood season, which warrants extra precautions. Never pitch a tent on low ground next to streams, bottoms of canyons or deep arroyos, since your campsite could be overtaken during the night.

Most deaths from flash floods occur when people attempt to drive through high water. A 1500-pound vehicle can become displaced by as little as one foot of water.

The saying, "Turn Around, Don't Drown," cannot be stressed enough. If your vehicle does stall in floodwaters, leave it immediately at risk of being swept away.

This YouTube video by John Davis shows flooding in-action at Barton Springs Pool in May of 2019:

Click here to learn more about flash flooding in Texas.

Are you prepared for flash flood season? Let us know what preventative measures you’ve taken, plus any other thoughts you may have. Head over to our previous article to read about a terrible flood in Texas history: In 1972, A Great Flood Swept Through Texas And Changed The State Forever.

Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Texas you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!

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It's The Season For Flash Floods In Texas And This Is Why You Need To Be Cautious

Katie Lawrence

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