Texas flash floods kill one, rescue dozens as rain swells rivers
Heavy rain caused flash flooding in the Texas Hill Country, killing at least one person and prompting the rescue of more than 70 residents, while authorities deployed over 1,300 responders.
Rescuers using boats and helicopters saved dozens of stranded drivers and residents after flash floods swept through parts of the Texas Hill Country, where more than 1,300 first responders were deployed. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed at least one death and said the priority was saving lives.
The National Weather Service reported a "large and deadly flood wave" moving down the Guadalupe River, which rose more than 30 feet in some locations after up to 28 inches of rain fell in Uvalde County over three days. Forecasts warned residents to move to higher ground as rivers rose hour by hour.
Among the victims, the body of 65-year-old John Mark Steward was recovered after his mobile home was swept off its foundation and carried downstream. His wife, Jennie Steward, said she learned of his disappearance from a neighbor who called overnight.
Local residents said they received more warnings this time than during the deadly floods of July 2023. "Last year there was no warning of it," said Kerrville resident Josiah Rodriguez, noting that alerts and safety measures were more robust this year.
Agencies including Texas Game Wardens and Travis County emergency officials used helicopters to reach people trapped on rooftops and in trees. Travis County Judge Andy Brown said callers reported ten individuals stranded on a barn roof.
Animal rescue volunteers also evacuated dozens of wildlife from the overflowing Lazy Creek, while an RV park in Comfort relocated trailers as floodwaters rose to levels similar to the previous summer.
In Uvalde, floodwaters cut off most road access, prompting mandatory evacuations. "People really can’t get anywhere," said resident Carmen Rodriguez as a helicopter hovered overhead.
Although the Guadalupe River did not reach the record levels recorded in 2025, it still caused significant damage, especially in rural areas of Ingram where roads were described as "trashed" by Mayor Claud Jordan. The flooding added strain to communities still rebuilding from last year’s disaster.