News Summary
San Antonio faced a devastating flash flood resulting in at least 11 confirmed deaths. Intense rainfall overwhelmed the city, especially in the north, leading to numerous rescues and emergency calls. Recovery operations are ongoing, fueled by fears that the death toll may rise as search efforts continue. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as flash flood warnings are still in effect.
San Antonio, Texas experienced severe flash flooding on Thursday, June 12, resulting in at least 11 confirmed fatalities and numerous rescue operations. The intense rainfall, which occurred overnight on June 11, dumped between 5 to 8 inches of rain in a short period, primarily affecting the northern parts of the city. Authorities are continuing search and recovery efforts as they fear the death toll may rise.
The flooding prompted the San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) to respond to 70 emergency calls for water rescues and 16 calls for high water investigations from 12:00 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. on June 12. Fast-rising waters swept away many vehicles, particularly in the vicinity of NE Loop 410 and Perrin Beitel Road, resulting in multiple emergencies as 15 vehicles were confirmed to have been carried into creeks.
As the recovery efforts continue, officials confirmed that victims include Martha De La Torre Rangel (55), Matthew Angel Tufono (51), Victor Manuel Macias Castro (28), and Rudy Garza (61), among others whose identities are still being verified. Police Chief William McManus indicated that some victims were found deceased inside their vehicles, while others required rescuers to extract them from trees and bushes.
During the rescue operations, at least 10 individuals were saved from being trapped in trees and shrubs. Four people were taken to local hospitals due to minor injuries after being swept away by the fast-moving floodwaters. Many individuals reported terrifying incidents where they were carried off access roads by the inundating waters.
One notable case is that of Angela Richards, who is searching for her husband, Stevie Richards, who was last heard from when his vehicle was overtaken by floodwaters. The San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Congressman Joaquin Castro extended their condolences to the families affected by this tragedy, expressing their sorrow over the loss of life.
The National Weather Service acted swiftly by issuing flood warnings for the area, cautioning the public about hazardous conditions and predicting further rainfall. Flash flood watches remain in effect for several areas, including parts of the coastal plains, as officials anticipate excessive runoff and additional rain.
Search and recovery efforts are largely focused on Salado Creek and Leon Creek regions, with the assistance of K9 units and support from Texas A&M Task Force 1. Emergency responders have emphasized the hazards associated with low-water crossings, noting that the depth and speed of floodwaters can be unpredictable, leading to dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike.
This incident has highlighted the urgent need for public awareness regarding flash floods. Officials encourage residents to heed warnings and avoid attempting to cross flooded areas, as rushing waters can pose serious threats to life and safety. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this significant weather event, further updates are expected as rescues and searches continue.
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Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- People
- Google Search: San Antonio Flooding June 2023
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Scholar: San Antonio Flood Disaster Response
- MSN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Antonio Flooding
- Express News
- Google News: San Antonio Flooding
