Torrential rainfall has triggered multiple flash flood emergencies across Texas Hill Country, including Kerrville—the same city devastated by the deadly Camp Mystic flooding that claimed lives in July 2025. Governor Greg Abbott activated over 1,300 state personnel as rising waters forced evacuations and water rescues across four counties, with rainfall totals potentially exceeding 30 inches.
Record-Breaking Water Levels Threaten Communities
The Guadalupe River at Hunt surged from 9 feet to 19 feet in just one hour Thursday morning, cutting off access to multiple roads and bridges. At Center Point, downstream from Kerrville, the river gauge climbed 32 feet in four hours, approaching levels seen during last year’s catastrophic July 4 flood. The National Weather Service warned of a large and deadly flood wave moving through Center Point toward Comfort, Waring, Sisterdale, Crown, and Bergheim.
Engineers examined the bridge over the Guadalupe River on Highway 87 near Comfort after concerns about structural integrity from the rushing water. The bridge was determined sound for the time being, though 63 residents remained sheltered at the town’s evacuation center with their pets. Authorities expected water levels to recede before a possible second wave later Thursday, though not as severe as the morning surge.
Unprecedented Rainfall Strains Emergency Resources
The Uvalde area received up to 20 inches of rain over 48 hours—more than six months of typical precipitation—with 8 inches falling in just two hours. Near Boerne, rain gauges measured 3.5 inches within one hour Wednesday morning, causing Cibolo Creek to rise 10 feet in 90 minutes and reach a record high exceeding 22 feet. The National Weather Service issued particularly dangerous situation warnings, urging immediate evacuation to higher ground.
Governor Abbott announced disaster declarations for 59 counties with the possibility of expansion. More than 75 people required rescue operations as of Wednesday. State response included deploying over 800 vehicles, 75 boats, and 20 aircraft from more than 30 agencies. Rainfall rates reached 2 to 4 inches per hour across the region, with forecasts predicting the storm could exceed last year’s deadly flood totals by 10 inches.
Flash Flood Alley Strikes Again
Texas Hill Country earned the nickname Flash Flood Alley due to its susceptibility to rapid flooding from intense rainfall. The region’s geography creates conditions where small creeks and rivers can transform into dangerous torrents within minutes. This latest emergency tests the preparedness improvements implemented after the Camp Mystic tragedy, which killed multiple people during Independence Day celebrations last year. State officials emphasized their primary focus remains saving lives as the torrential rain continues threatening communities across central Texas.