Flash Flood Risk Extends Along Gulf Coast as Heavy Rain Soaks Texas

Key facts

• A man died in San Antonio after being found in high water near San Pedro Creek.
• A Level 2 of 4 flash flood risk is in effect Friday from eastern Texas through Mississippi and along the Gulf Coast.
• Expected rainfall totals are 2 to 4 inches, with localized amounts up to 6 inches through Friday evening.
• The threat area includes Houston, Austin, and extends west toward Midland.
• Flood watches continue across impacted areas in central and southern Texas and along the Gulf Coast.
• The flood threat is expected to expand eastward into Louisiana by Friday afternoon and continue into early Saturday.

Deadly Flooding Strikes San Antonio

a man died early Friday after being found in high water near an intersection by San Pedro Creek. The unidentified man was pulled ashore and pronounced dead at the scene, according to the San Antonio Police Department. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Heavy Rain Forecast and Flash Flood Risk

More rain is on the way in Texas, spreading along the Gulf Coast and extending flooding concerns into the weekend. Already soaked areas in central and southern Texas and along the Gulf Coast will continue to see heavy rain through the weekend. Expected rainfall totals between 2 to 4 inches are forecast, with localized amounts approaching 6 inches through Friday evening. The threat area includes Houston and Austin, and extends west toward Midland, where runoff could lead to dangerous flooding.

Level 2 Flash Flood Risk in Effect

On Friday, a Level 2 of 4 flash flood risk is in place from eastern Texas through Mississippi and along the Gulf Coast. Dangerous flash flooding can develop as converging winds draw moisture from the Gulf and rain coverage increases. Widespread flash flooding threatens the I-10 corridor from San Antonio to Houston and surrounding suburbs. The threat is expected to expand eastward into Louisiana by Friday afternoon and continue into early Saturday.

Severe Storms Possible with Damaging Winds and Hail

In the affected areas, severe storms are possible, with damaging winds and large hail serving as the main threat. Florida is also bracing for severe storms with damaging winds and potential tornado threat. The combination of heavy rain and severe weather raises the risk of additional flooding and damage.

Wider Context: Recent Severe Weather Across the U.S.

This flood event comes amid a pattern of severe weather across the country. A tornado with winds of at least 120 mph tore through a small Texas city, leaving five injured, buildings collapsed, and homes without roofs. Fast-moving storms battered the Midwest, flooding streets and stranding commuters. In Oklahoma, a violent tornado damaged 40 homes but spared lives. Meanwhile, heavy weekend rain slowed two sprawling Georgia wildfires, even as new blazes started.

Outlook and Preparedness

Residents in the flood-prone areas are urged to remain vigilant as the heavy rain continues through the weekend. Flood watches remain in effect, and officials warn that even small amounts of additional rain could trigger flash flooding in already saturated areas. The National Weather Service advises against driving through flooded roads, as water depths can be deceptive. The situation will be closely monitored as the threat expands eastward into Louisiana.

The bottom line

• A man died in San Antonio due to high water, highlighting the danger of flash flooding.
• A Level 2 flash flood risk covers eastern Texas through Mississippi and the Gulf Coast.
• Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, with local amounts up to 6 inches, are expected through Friday evening.
• The flood threat will expand into Louisiana by Friday afternoon and continue into early Saturday.
• Severe storms with damaging winds and large hail are possible in the affected areas.
• Recent severe weather across the U.S. includes tornadoes, flooding, and wildfires.