San Antonio Floods: At Least Four Dead, Dozens Rescued After Torrential Rains
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — A powerful and relentless storm system unleashed devastating rainfall across San Antonio early Thursday morning, leaving at least four people dead, dozens more stranded, and significant portions of the city underwater. Emergency officials have confirmed that water rescues began shortly before sunrise, and rescue efforts are still underway as authorities continue to search for at least two individuals reported missing.
The torrential downpour inundated major highways, submerged vehicles, and transformed quiet neighborhoods into dangerous waterways overnight. The San Antonio Fire Department reported a dramatic surge in emergency calls as motorists and residents found themselves trapped by fast-rising floodwaters. In several cases, individuals had to be pulled from the roofs of their cars or from trees after abandoning their vehicles.
Deadly Consequences
Tragically, four lives have been lost in the wake of the storm. While the identities of the victims have not yet been released, authorities say the fatalities were likely due to drowning. One person was found deceased in a submerged vehicle, while another body was recovered near a flooded creek. The other two deaths are still under investigation, but all are believed to be storm-related.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of life,” said San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood in a press briefing Thursday afternoon. “Our crews have been working tirelessly through the night and into the day to get people to safety. But this is a sobering reminder of just how quickly flooding can become deadly.”
Missing Persons and Ongoing Search
In addition to the confirmed fatalities, the San Antonio Police Department stated that two individuals are still missing, and active search efforts are ongoing. Helicopters, dive teams, and K9 units have been deployed to locate the missing individuals, who were last seen near areas that experienced some of the worst flooding.
The identities of those missing have not been publicly released, but family members have been notified, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Citywide Emergency Response
San Antonio emergency responders have performed dozens of water rescues since the storm began. Officials estimate that more than 70 people have been saved from life-threatening situations, many of them from stalled or submerged vehicles. With streets impassable and the San Antonio River swelling beyond its banks, the city has been forced into crisis response mode.
Several shelters have been opened throughout the city to house those displaced by the flooding, and schools in some districts closed for the day due to hazardous conditions. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood emergency for the region, warning residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from low-lying areas.
Community Support and Caution Urged
As the city grapples with the aftermath, local organizations and volunteers are stepping up to support affected families, offering food, clothing, and temporary lodging. Mayor Ron Nirenberg called for unity and vigilance, urging residents to “stay safe, check on your neighbors, and follow all emergency advisories.”
Meteorologists say the threat is not over. More rain is forecast for the region over the next 24 to 48 hours, which could further aggravate the flooding situation.
“This storm has already done significant damage,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Jennifer Miller. “With the ground saturated and water levels high, even a small amount of additional rain could lead to more flash floods.”
A Stark Reminder
Thursday’s events serve as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous nature of flash flooding in Texas. Despite public awareness campaigns like “Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” many motorists still attempt to navigate flooded roadways, often with tragic results.
As rescue teams continue their work and families mourn their losses, the city of San Antonio finds itself once again at the mercy of nature, reminded of the power of water and the critical importance of emergency preparedness.
Residents Urged to Stay Informed
Authorities continue to monitor conditions closely and are providing updates through official channels. Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts, follow local news, and heed any advisories regarding evacuation or road closures.
For now, San Antonio remains in a state of emergency, hoping for relief and bracing for what may come next.
