A person observes the Guadalupe River after intense flooding engulfed its banks on July 16, 2026, in Center Point, Texas. The flooding led to evacuations and prompted numerous water rescues across Central Texas. According to reports, Governor Greg Abbott confirmed at least one casualty in this emergency. As of Thursday midday, more than 80 rescues had taken place. Authorities deployed more than 1,300 responders and 46 boats.
A large portion of Texas, extending from Kerrville through Uvalde to Laredo, is under flood alerts. In Uvalde County, videos by the Texas Department of Public Safety show muddy floods reaching nearly to rooftops. Some communities face repeated flooding, compounding the impact from earlier rains.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Antonio and Austin reports continuous showers and storms in flood-hit areas. In Kerrville, although waters receded, bridges and roads remain closed. The city police urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel. Observations note the current flooding surpasses levels seen in 2025, with NPR member stations documenting these updates.
One summer camp has evacuated. Meanwhile, lawmakers indicate enhanced disaster response and resources, including funding for warning systems and flood mitigation, are improving safety measures.
The Guadalupe River, near Comfort, Texas, saw an alarming rise from 5.46 feet at 5 a.m. CT to 37.05 feet by 8:05 a.m., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Flood sirens blared as fast-moving waters traversed neighborhoods. Comfort’s Volunteer Fire Department warned the public to stay off roads as several vehicles were washed away.
The NOAA website shows over 20 Texas locations experiencing major or moderate flood levels, marked in purple and red. Governor Abbott mentioned the potential for historic flood records, contrasting the current scenario with last year’s significant flood. The July 4 floods resulted in 20.29 inches of rain, while projections for the current storm exceed 30 inches.
Camp Mystic, known for its tragic loss last year when 25 campers and two counselors perished in the floods, remains closed. Rainfall forecasts suggest further excessive rain across the Hill Country, with the storm expected to progress westward towards the Big Bend region on Friday, informed the NWS.