Severe Flooding in South Texas Causes Destruction and Rescues
MCallen, Texas – After a historic downpour along the Texas-Mexico border, rescue operations continue as local officials deal with the aftermath of severe flooding that has impacted numerous communities. The rainfall, which subsided on Friday, left many residents trapped, while also claiming at least three lives.
Record Rainfall
Officials reported Harlingen, Texas, received a staggering 21.5 inches of rain within a two-day span, breaking its previous record from 1912. The intense storms on Thursday resulted in severe flooding, leading to over 200 rescues across the region, with many residents still awaiting assistance.
Fatalities and Emergency Responses
The Hidalgo County authorities confirmed three deaths related to the storm, with one involving U.S. Border Patrol agents. The agents attempted to approach a flooded vehicle linked to suspected human smuggling in Edcouch when the driver, instead of stopping, drove into a canal.
In response to the calamity, Mayor Norma Sepulveda of Harlingen remarked, “This of course has been a historic and challenging event for the city. But Harlingen is strong. We have faced adversity before and we will get through this together.”
Impact on Local Communities
The police and fire department in Alamo executed over 100 water rescues, aiding those stranded in vehicles and homes. Chief R.C. Flores emphasized that the emergencies would continue to be monitored even after the storm subsided. “Just because the storm is over, it doesn’t mean that the emergencies and the disaster is over,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Weslaco Mayor Adrian Gonzalez reported approximately 14 inches of rainfall in their area, leading to 30 to 40 rescue operations. “It’s a historic rainstorm and it’s affecting all the Valley, not just Weslaco,” he said.
Additional Rainfall and Continued Warnings
The National Weather Service indicated that several areas in South Texas recorded between 6 to 12 inches of rain within a day. Cameron County officials have formally requested assistance from Governor Greg Abbott due to the significant flooding caused by more than 17 inches of rain.
As local resources are heavily taxed, Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. acknowledged, “The rainfall amounts we received have been record-setting, and not in a good way.”
Transport Disruptions and Community Support
The flooding has also led to the closure of Valley International Airport in Harlingen, with all flights canceled until further notice. Local airport officials are focused on ensuring safety as they work towards reopening.
As part of the community response, shelters have been established, including a middle school in Alamo serving as a refuge for those affected, along with additional shelters in Weslaco and Harlingen.
Ongoing Challenges
As rescue efforts continue, over 3,400 residents in various counties remain without power. A flood warning for Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy counties remains in effect, signaling the potential for further hazards.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service noted that while there is a temporary break in the storms, attention must be paid to possible isolated showers and thunderstorms that could exacerbate the situation.
Local educational institutions have also been affected, with over 20 school districts and college campuses canceling classes on Friday, reflecting the widespread disruption caused by the severe weather.
For assistance and updates, officials urge the public to stay informed and remain vigilant as recovery efforts unfold in the aftermath of this unprecedented storm.
Reported by Associated Press writer Juan Lozano in Houston.
