Severe storms flood streets and prompt water rescues in South Texas
Severe storms have caused significant flooding in South Texas, resulting in at least three confirmed fatalities and over 200 water rescues. The storms, which struck on March 27, 2025, led to extreme rainfall, with some areas receiving more than 18 inches within just two days. This unprecedented amount of rain overwhelmed local drainage systems, prompting authorities to conduct extensive rescue operations for stranded motorists and residents trapped in their homes.
Fatalities and Rescues: At least three deaths have been reported, including incidents involving law enforcement personnel. The Alamo Fire Department conducted over 100 water rescues, while Weslaco reported 30 to 40 rescues due to rising waters.
Rainfall Impact: The National Weather Service indicated that many regions experienced between 6 and 12 inches of rain in a short period. Specific areas like Palmview recorded more than 18 inches, leading to severe flooding conditions.
Infrastructure Challenges: The heavy rainfall caused the closure of Valley International Airport in Harlingen, with all flights canceled due to flooding. Additionally, over 3,700 residents were reported without power in various counties.
Emergency Response: Local officials have set up shelters for displaced residents and are prioritizing medical emergencies as they continue rescue efforts. A flood warning remains active for parts of Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy counties.
The situation remains critical as authorities monitor the potential for additional rainfall that could exacerbate flooding issues already faced by the region.
Severe storms have recently battered South Texas, leading to widespread flooding and necessitating numerous water rescues. On March 27, 2025, heavy rainfall overwhelmed the region, particularly along the Texas-Mexico border, with some areas receiving over a foot of rain in less than 48 hours. Cities like McAllen, Harlingen, and Alamo saw streets inundated, vehicles stranded, and residents trapped in their homes as drainage systems struggled to cope with the deluge. In Harlingen alone, more than 21 inches of rain fell, marking a historic event that prompted over 200 rescues.
The storms forced the closure of Valley International Airport in Harlingen and triggered power outages affecting thousands. Emergency services, including fire and police departments, conducted dozens of rescues—over 100 in Alamo and 30 to 40 in Weslaco—prioritizing medical emergencies amid the chaos.
The National Weather Service issued multiple Flash Flood Emergencies, a rare and severe warning, as rainfall totals shattered records, such as Brownsville’s 5.70 inches in a single day. While the rain subsided by late Friday morning, March 28, authorities warn that swollen rivers may continue to pose flood risks in the coming days. The situation remains dire, with local officials calling for disaster declarations to aid recovery efforts in this heavily impacted region.
