South Texas, November 27, 2025
South Texas faces devastating flooding due to severe storms, leading to at least three fatalities and over 200 rescues. Communities in Hidalgo, Cameron, and Willacy counties are significantly impacted, with record-breaking rainfall causing widespread emergencies. Evacuations are ongoing as the National Weather Service continues to issue warnings, urging residents to seek higher ground.
Severe Flooding Strikes South Texas Following Intense Storms
San Antonio, Texas – Following a series of severe storms, South Texas has been left grappling with significant flooding impacts, resulting in at least three fatalities and extensive rescue operations across the region. The National Weather Service has declared multiple flash flood emergencies, strongly advising residents to seek higher ground immediately and avoid engaging with flooded areas.
Impact on Communities
The brunt of the flooding has been felt across Hidalgo, Cameron, and Willacy counties, where rainfall amounts have shattered previous records. In Harlingen, relentless rains accumulated to over 21 inches this week, culminating in a serious flood crisis that has necessitated the rescue of over 200 residents, with additional individuals still awaiting help. Similarly, Alamo’s police and fire departments undertook more than 100 water rescues, indicating the severity of the situation with many trapped in vehicles and homes.
Record-Breaking Rainfall
The rainfall during this storm event recorded rates exceeding four inches per hour, some areas experiencing as much as 12 inches of rain within just 24 hours. Key rainfall measurements revealed that McAllen recorded 4.96 inches, thereby breaking a record established in 1999, while Brownsville reported 5.3 inches, which surpassed a longstanding record from 1911.
Warnings and Safety Measures
As communities reel from the effects of these storms, the National Weather Service continues to issue flash flood warnings and advisories for the affected regions. Residents are cautioned against driving through flooded roads; it takes only six inches of moving water to knock an adult down, with just two feet being sufficient to sweep away most vehicles. This emphasizes the critical need to heed warnings and prioritize personal safety during such emergencies.
Ongoing Response Efforts
Emergency response teams are actively conducting water rescues, providing shelter to those displaced by flooding. The Valley International Airport in Harlingen has been forced to shut down operations, with all flights canceled to ensure safety amidst the flooding crisis. Local authorities are committed to addressing the immediate needs of affected residents as swiftly as possible.
Background
This year’s severe storms are part of a concerning trend; South Texas is no stranger to heavy rainfall, yet the recent storm was particularly intense. Typically, the region accumulates about 25 inches of rain annually. However, the rainfall experienced this week has already significantly exceeded that annual average in a matter of days, highlighting a potential shift in local weather patterns.
Looking Ahead
As the weather forecast indicates a reduction in rain by the weekend, the repercussions of the storm will linger, necessitating ongoing recovery efforts throughout the region. Residents are urged to stay updated through local news agencies and official government channels to receive the latest information on recovery operations and safety guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What areas in South Texas have been most affected by the flooding?
The hardest-hit areas include Hidalgo, Cameron, and Willacy counties, where unprecedented rainfall has led to severe flooding and extensive rescue operations.
How much rainfall did the region receive during the storms?
Some areas received up to 12 inches of rain in a 24-hour period, with McAllen recording 4.96 inches and Brownsville 5.3 inches, both breaking previous records.
What safety measures should residents take during flash floods?
Residents are advised to avoid driving through flooded roads, as even six inches of moving water can knock a person down, and two feet can sweep away most vehicles. It’s crucial to seek higher ground immediately when a flash flood warning is issued.
What is the current status of emergency response efforts?
Emergency services are actively conducting water rescues and providing shelter to displaced residents. The Valley International Airport in Harlingen has been closed, and all flights have been canceled due to flooding.
How can residents stay informed about the situation?
Residents are urged to stay informed through local news and official channels for updates on recovery efforts and safety guidelines.
Key Features of the Flooding in South Texas
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Impact Areas | Hidalgo, Cameron, and Willacy counties |
| Rainfall Amounts | Up to 12 inches in 24 hours; McAllen 4.96 inches; Brownsville 5.3 inches |
| Fatalities | At least three reported |
| Rescue Operations | Over 200 residents rescued in Harlingen; more than 100 rescues in Alamo |
| Airport Closures | Valley International Airport in Harlingen closed; all flights canceled |
| Safety Warnings | Flash flood warnings issued; residents advised to seek higher ground and avoid flooded roads |
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The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
