Central Texas was hit by another wave of severe flooding on Saturday, July 13, prompting mandatory evacuations and a temporary suspension of search and rescue efforts that had been underway since the catastrophic floods on Independence Day.
A Flash Flood Emergency was declared early Saturday morning for San Saba County, with officials issuing mandatory evacuation orders for areas that were previously inundated during the deadly July 4 floods. Additional rescues and evacuations were reported in Lampasas, Schleicher, Kimble, Menard, and Sutton counties, as river levels once again surged dangerously.
The San Saba County Sheriff’s Office confirmed widespread road closures due to rapidly moving water, warning residents to avoid driving over flooded roads, regardless of water depth.
“If you are in an area that was previously affected or close to being affected last week, please make plans now to move to safety,”urged County Judge Jody Fauley via social media.
Residents received mobile alerts on Saturday warning that the Guadalupe River was likely to reach flood stage by the end of the day. The alert emphasized immediate action:
“All persons, equipment, and vehicles should be removed from the river immediately.”
Homes damaged during last week’s flash floods were placed under recommended evacuation orders, with Judge Fauley advising that residents must leave the area before 1:00 p.m. local time to avoid rising waters.
“Please do not be in this designated area after 13:00,” Fauley added.
Remembering the Devastation of July 4
On July 4, the Guadalupe River rose to a record height of over 10 meters (34 feet), triggering one of the most deadly inland flooding events in U.S. history. The storm dumped over 20 inches (516 mm) of rain in just a few hours — the equivalent of four months’ rainfall — across the Texas Hill Country.
The floods claimed the lives of more than 130 people, with Kerr County alone reporting at least 106 deaths. Among the dead were 27 individuals from Camp Mystic, who were tragically swept away by floodwaters. An estimated 160 people remain missing across affected regions, with emergency teams continuing their search efforts between weather breaks.
This month’s flooding surpasses the deadly impacts of Hurricane Helene (2024) and is now considered the worst inland flood in the U.S. since the Big Thompson River Flood of 1976.
Looking Ahead
With more rain expected in the coming days and rivers already swollen beyond normal capacity, officials urge residents across Central Texas to remain vigilant, monitor official updates, and follow all evacuation orders.
The National Weather Service continues to track weather systems affecting the region and warns of continued flood risks, especially in low-lying and previously saturated areas.
