Heavy flooding in San Antonio has resulted in the deaths of at least five people, with two others still missing after a series of water rescues over the past several days. Authorities said 13 vehicles were swept off the roads by fast-moving floodwaters, prompting urgent search and recovery efforts.
The flooding began earlier this week as torrential rain soaked parts of South Texas, leading to sudden flash floods that overwhelmed roadways and low-lying areas. Bexar County officials confirmed that the fatalities occurred in separate incidents, with most involving people trapped in vehicles.
San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood stated that emergency crews have responded to more than 80 water rescue calls in recent days. “People continue to underestimate the power of moving water,” Hood said, urging residents to avoid driving through flooded roads.
Among the ongoing efforts, local dive teams and drones are being used to search for the three individuals still unaccounted for. Some of the submerged vehicles have already been recovered, but officials fear there may be more victims.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has been briefed on the situation, and the state is coordinating with local agencies to support recovery and rescue operations. More rain is forecast in the coming days, raising concerns that conditions could worsen.
Officials continue to stress the importance of following safety guidelines during flash flood conditions, including the widely promoted warning: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
