Abbott Declares Disaster in 59 Texas Counties as Flood Risk Threatens 10 More Inches
Updated
Updated · CNN · Jul 13
Abbott Declares Disaster in 59 Texas Counties as Flood Risk Threatens 10 More Inches
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Jul 13
Summary
Texas placed 59 counties under a disaster declaration Tuesday as flash flooding intensified across the Hill Country, Edwards Plateau and Rio Grande Valley, with roads inundated, shelters disrupted and multiple water rescues underway.
An additional 10 or more inches of rain could fall by Wednesday morning after 6 to 12 inches already hit some areas, as Gulf moisture collides with a stalled front and upper-level energy to drive slow-moving storms.
The Weather Prediction Center issued a rare Level 4 of 4 flood risk for parts of southern Texas, a category used on fewer than 4% of days but linked to more than 80% of flood damage.
More than 6 million people are under flood watches in central and southwest Texas, including Austin, San Antonio and Del Rio, while localized flooding could spread east toward Houston and persist through Thursday.
As extreme floods become Texas's new normal, is the state's traditional disaster response model now dangerously obsolete?
Beyond the submerged homes and roads, what is the looming mental health crisis facing Texas flood survivors?
Texas Flood Emergency 2026: Statewide Disaster Response, Community Impact, and Long-Term Resilience Strategies
Overview
In June 2026, Texas faced a major flood emergency as heavy rainfall and flash flooding swept across the state, with storms expected to bring up to 8 inches of rain to regions like West and Southwest Texas. Governor Greg Abbott responded by declaring a disaster for 101 counties and quickly mobilizing emergency resources, including rescue boats and helicopters. The widespread severe weather led state leaders to take preventative action, emphasizing public safety and urging residents to stay alert. This coordinated response highlights Texas’s ongoing struggle with severe weather and the importance of rapid, organized action during escalating threats.