Flooding has hit parts of Central Texas as severe storms move across the region, with roads closed in Kerrville, Junction and surrounding communities and a flood watch in force for much of South Central Texas.
The National Weather Service has warned of potentially dangerous flash flooding, particularly across the Hill Country and areas west of the Interstate 35 corridor. A flood watch remains in place through Friday evening, with one to four inches of rain expected across much of the region and isolated totals of up to eight inches.
Kerr County was placed under a flash flood warning after thunderstorms produced intense rainfall. Forecasters said further rain could fall at rates of up to four inches an hour in the worst-affected areas.
Several roads and low-water crossings in and around Kerrville have been closed because of rising water, including sections of Goat Creek Road, Town Creek and Junction Highway. Local officials have also been distributing sandbags and preparing swift-water rescue resources.
Flooding has also been reported in Junction, where high water has affected roads and infrastructure. South Llano River State Park has been closed because of heavy rain and the risk of flooding.
Central Texas flooding prompts warnings
The National Weather Service said showers and thunderstorms were moving towards the Austin area, with further storms possible through Thursday evening and into Friday. Some storms could be strong to severe, while additional periods of heavy rain are expected over the weekend.
Officials have urged motorists not to drive through flooded roads or move around barricades. Rapidly rising water can make low-water crossings and underpasses dangerous even when the road appears passable.
The Lower Colorado River Authority said it was releasing storm runoff through hydroelectric generation at one or more Highland Lakes dams, but no floodgate operations were planned at the time of its latest update. The authority warned that conditions could change quickly if further heavy rain increases inflows.
In Austin, outreach teams were operating south of the Colorado River as the storms approached, while emergency services monitored areas vulnerable to rising water.
The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter was also seeking foster homes as part of its response to the unsettled weather, helping to create additional capacity for animals needing temporary accommodation.
Forecasters said rain chances should gradually ease next week, although showers may continue across parts of Central Texas into the weekend.
