San Antonio, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Business owners in San Antonio expressed disappointment after attending Governor Abbott’s Small Business Disaster Recovery Fair, which aimed to help those impacted by severe flooding. Attendees anticipated substantial support but received low-interest loans deemed inadequate for addressing their recovery needs. The recent flooding on June 12 caused extensive damage, flooding infrastructure, and tragically took lives, raising concerns about the adequacy of support provided to local businesses facing overwhelming losses.
San Antonio business owners expressed profound disappointment following their attendance at Governor Greg Abbott’s Small Business Disaster Recovery Fair aimed at assisting those affected by catastrophic floods in the Hill Country. Many small business operators had their lives turned upside down by the recent flooding that devastated their homes and businesses.
The fair, which hoped to offer immediate relief, primarily presented low-interest loans through the Small Business Administration (SBA), which many owners found inadequate for their needs. The loans come with a 12-month grace period, leading to significant frustration among business owners who were expecting more substantial aid.
Jennifer and Jack Hudson, owners of Quality and Patio Furniture, reported extensive damage to their property, business, and vehicles. They were among numerous business owners who were anticipating proactive financial support at the recovery fair but instead were met with meager loan options, which they felt could not address their overwhelming losses.
Yvette Cruz, a representative at the event, indicated that the goal of these loans is to help bridge financial gaps stemming from the disaster. However, many participants, including Lorena Guillen, owner of Howdy’s Restaurant and Blue Oak RV Park, criticized the loan proposals as unreasonable given the extent of the destruction they faced. Business owners expressed genuine concerns about their ability to repay such loans amid their current struggles.
Flooding Impact
The devastating floods that struck San Antonio on June 12, 2025, resulted in severe disruptions, claiming the lives of 13 individuals. Local weather reports indicated that the area experienced 6.37 inches of rain, marking it as the highest precipitation recorded since May 25, 2013. This disaster made it the 10th rainiest day in San Antonio’s history, severely impacting infrastructure and daily life.
- Significant flooding affected numerous roads, including major thoroughfare Interstate 35.
- Emergency services responded to over 200 weather-related calls, including 70 water rescues.
- Reports noted that 15 vehicles were swept away during the flooding.
- Roughly 30,000 residents experienced power outages due to the storm.
- Most of the flood victims’ bodies were recovered from various locations, particularly along Perrin Beitel Road.
Community Response
In the wake of this disaster, a vigil was held on June 18, where community members gathered to honor the lives lost during the flood. Emotional tributes were shared among family and friends. Following the tragic events, city officials, including San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones, extended their condolences to the affected families.
In a collaborative effort, a joint disaster declaration was issued on June 17 by city and county officials to request additional resources and state assistance for recovery initiatives. Furthermore, the city has announced forthcoming plans for an independent review to analyze the flooding events and identify contributing factors that could inform future preparedness strategies.
Infrastructure Concerns
The San Antonio area has a longstanding history of flooding, raising pressing concerns regarding infrastructure and public safety. Local officials are actively advocating for improved investments to bolster infrastructure and mitigate future flooding risks, especially in light of escalating climate change impacts. Investigations are set to begin to assess necessary enhancements in flood-prone areas.
For residents impacted by the floods, SBA low-interest loan applications will remain open until September 4, 2025. These loans are intended to assist small business owners in addressing their post-disaster recovery needs.
FAQ
What type of assistance was offered to San Antonio business owners at the recovery fair?
Business owners were primarily offered low-interest loans through the Small Business Administration, with a 12-month grace period, which many found insufficient for their recovery needs.
How much rain fell during the flooding in San Antonio on June 12, 2025?
San Antonio experienced 6.37 inches of rain, making it the highest recorded rainfall since May 25, 2013.
What is the deadline for residents to apply for federal assistance following the flooding?
Residents impacted by the flooding can apply for federal assistance and low-interest loans until September 4, 2025.
What were the main challenges faced by business owners after the floods?
Many business owners faced significant financial burdens, including damage to their properties and lack of adequate funding options to support their recovery efforts.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Flood Date | June 12, 2025 |
| Rainfall Amount | 6.37 inches |
| Deadlines for SBA Loans | September 4, 2025 |
| Number of Lives Lost | 13 confirmed |
| Road Infrastructure Affected | Included Interstate 35 |
| Date | Event | Status/Source |
|---|---|---|
| June 12, 2025 | Severe flooding occurs | Reported by local authorities |
| June 17, 2025 | Joint disaster declaration issued | City and County Officials |
| June 18, 2025 | Community vigil held | Local news reports |
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Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: San Antonio floods
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Search: Texas floods 2025
- Fox San Antonio
- Google Scholar: San Antonio floods 2025
- Express News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hill Country floods
- Axios
- Google News: Texas flooding 2025
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