The Lone Star State is bracing for a soaking this week as a slow-moving storm system threatens to unleash up to 10 inches of rain, triggering urgent flash flood warnings from the National Weather Service.
Residents across central Texas, northeast Louisiana, and central Mississippi are being urged to stay alert as the National Weather Service issued an excessive rainfall advisory early Monday. The agency warned that central Texas could see up to four inches of rain in just a few hours, with additional thunderstorms expected to develop later in the day.
Flood Watch in Effect
“A Flood Watch is in effect for portions of Central Texas through Monday afternoon where several rounds of thunderstorms with heavy rainfall are expected,” the National Weather Service said in a statement. “Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches with isolated totals in excess of 4 inches are possible within the watch area. Please keep an eye on the weather through this afternoon. Turn around, don’t drown; never drive through barricades!”
The warning comes as the region remains vulnerable to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas and near streams and drainage ditches. The National Water Center has also issued key messages for the flash flooding threat across Texas and the Lower Mississippi Valley this week.
This latest weather event echoes recent heavy rain warnings in the Midwest, where similar conditions have caused concern.
Safety Tips for Residents
Officials are urging residents to take precautions as the storm system lingers. Here are some key safety reminders:
- Stay away from flood-prone areas such as stream beds, drainage ditches, and culverts during heavy rain.
- Move to higher ground immediately if flooding threatens your location.
- Remain alert if you live or work in flood-prone areas, especially during periods of heavy rain.
- Be extra cautious at night, when flood dangers are harder to spot.
The National Weather Service also warned that additional scattered thunderstorms could develop later Monday morning into the afternoon, primarily south of I-20. While the severe weather threat remains low, periods of heavy rainfall may lead to new or additional flooding across parts of central Texas through 7 PM Monday.
“If you encounter flooded roadways, Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” the agency reiterated in a safety memo to Texans.
The flash flood warning could remain in effect for most of the week, as the storm system shows little sign of moving out quickly. With up to 10 inches of rain possible in some areas, the risk of significant flooding remains high.
This storm arrives as the region is still recovering from previous severe thunderstorms that caused widespread damage. Residents are advised to stay tuned to local weather updates and heed all official warnings.
