Texas Flooding: What’s Happening and How the State Is Responding

Big News from Texas

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has said that 59 counties are now in a special “disaster” status because flooding is hitting parts of the state. Think of a disaster declaration like a big red button the governor pushes so the state can send help faster.

What We Know

Here is what is going on right now:

• The Weather Prediction Center (a group that watches the weather for the whole country) says a part of south-central Texas could get flash floods this week.
  • Flash flood = rain comes so fast that streets turn into rivers before you can blink.
• A picture from FOX Weather shows the flood risk areas for Texas this week.
• In Uvalde County (a place in the high-danger zone), people have already needed to be rescued from high water.
• Videos show roads covered by water and cars being pushed away by the flow.
• Over the weekend, Abbott turned on emergency help. On Tuesday, he made it official with the disaster declaration.

Important: Flash floods can happen super fast. If water covers a road, do not try to drive through it.

What People Are Saying

Governor Abbott shared this simple message:

"The protection of Texans is my top priority. As severe storms and the threat of dangerous flash flooding continue across the state, this disaster declaration ensures we can rapidly deploy state resources to support local communities. Texas is positioned to respond quickly and effectively. I urge all Texans in affected areas to monitor local weather forecasts, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and have emergency supplies ready."

In normal words: Stay safe, listen to the weather news, don’t drive into water, and keep a bag of supplies ready.

Which Counties Are Included?

Some of the places on the list are:

• Bexar County
• Harris County
• Travis County

Officials say more counties will be added if the water keeps spreading.

What’s Next?

By the end of the week, some areas—especially the Big Bend Region—could see up to a foot of rain (that’s like 12 inches of water from the sky!).

Where Did This Info Come From?

The facts in this story came from:

• The governor’s office
• The National Weather Service
• NOAA (a big science group for oceans and atmosphere)
• The Weather Prediction Center
• Social media posts

Summary

Texas is dealing with dangerous flash floods. Governor Abbott declared a disaster for 59 counties to send help quickly. Uvalde County already had rescues. More rain—up to a foot—is expected. Stay informed, avoid flooded roads, and keep emergency supplies handy.

FAQ

1. What is a disaster declaration?
It is a formal announcement by the governor that lets the state send money, people, and equipment to help faster.

2. What should I do if I live in one of the listed counties?
Watch local weather updates, do not drive through flooded streets, and pack emergency supplies like water, food, and a flashlight.

3. Will more counties be added?
Yes. Officials said they will add more counties if the flooding spreads.

4. What is a flash flood?
It is sudden, fast-moving flooding that happens when heavy rain falls quicker than the ground can absorb it.

5. How much rain is expected?
Up to 12 inches (one foot) in the Big Bend Region by the end of the week.