Texas Rescues 40 in Uvalde Flooding as 32-Foot River Surge Threatens Repeat Disaster
Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jul 16
Texas Rescues 40 in Uvalde Flooding as 32-Foot River Surge Threatens Repeat Disaster
3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jul 16
Summary
More than 40 people were rescued overnight in and around Uvalde after floodwaters cut off access to the city, with boats deployed and helicopter operations planned after daybreak.
Up to 20 inches of rain fell in two days, including 8 inches in two hours early Thursday, sending parts of the Guadalupe River up more than 30 feet; one gauge near Kerrville jumped 32 feet in four hours.
No deaths or injuries were immediately reported, but the National Weather Service warned a “large and deadly flood wave” was moving down the same river corridor hit by last year’s fatal floods.
Mandatory evacuations were ordered in parts of Uvalde, Kerrville residents were told to shelter at the highest levels of their homes, and several tornado warnings were also issued.
The flooding threatened 57 counties and 6 million Texans under flood watches, testing a region still recovering from July Fourth floods last year that killed more than 100 people.
With billions invested in flood control, why are Texas communities facing another catastrophic flood just one year later?
As 'Flash Flood Alley' floods again, is endlessly rebuilding in vulnerable areas a sustainable strategy for Texas?
The July 2026 Uvalde Floods: Causes, Impacts, and the Urgent Need for Resilience in Texas Hill Country
Overview
The July 2026 floods created an immediate crisis for communities, causing widespread damage and major disruption. In Ingram, the flooding was described as worse than previous years, even though water levels were not as high. Rural roads suffered extensive damage, making it hard for residents and emergency services to get around. Local businesses, already struggling from earlier floods, were hit again, making recovery even more difficult. This ongoing struggle suggests a long recovery ahead and possible long-term economic problems for the region. The situation highlights how repeated disasters can deepen challenges for affected communities.