Flooding in Central Texas: Ahead of last week’s persistent rainfall throughout the state, local leaders and Gov. Greg Abbott both issued disaster declarations, warning Texans of potential flooding throughout the state. As the water poured down, it became clear that the declarations were well-warranted, as flash flooding was seen across many parts of the Hill Country last Thursday, July 16, into Friday, and Abbott later issued a major disaster declaration for 28 counties. At least two people died as a result of the flooding, one in Uvalde and another in Comfort. The Pedernales and Llano rivers both saw immense increases in water levels, as Lake Travis reached 100% capacity for the first time since 2019 and the city issued a waterway ban that is set to expire today, July 23. The largest impacts of the flood were felt in Kerr and Uvalde counties, which each saw over 25 inches of rainfall; however, after last year’s July floods that killed over 100 people, communities and first responders were better prepared for this year’s incident. Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country recently launched a relief fund for the areas that have been impacted by this round of flooding.
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