Severe Thunderstorms Cause Widespread Flooding in Rio Grande Valley
On Thursday, the Rio Grande Valley faced a significant weather threat as severe thunderstorms swept through the area, resulting in heavy rainfall and extensive flooding.
Widespread Flooding and Impact on Residents
The intense downpour led to numerous roadways being submerged, leaving many residents wading through waist-deep water and climbing onto stranded vehicles. This situation was particularly evident along the frontage road near Alamo and San Juan, where stranded motorists began to seek help.
Alamo Fire Chief RC Flores reported that local fire and police departments conducted over 50 water rescues throughout the day. “We are getting a bucket of water poured on us, and it’s too much for the drainage system,” he explained. Although many motorists faced stranded situations without immediate danger, prioritizing medical emergencies was crucial due to the overwhelming conditions.
Rescues in Critical Situations
In one alarming incident, an emergency vehicle struggled to reach a pregnant woman experiencing contractions near Walmart due to the flooded conditions. Fortunately, a fire truck managed to navigate the floodwaters, allowing responders to transport her to a local facility for necessary medical care. “We were able to get her using one of our fire engines to take her to a local facility to get her the high level of care she needed,” Flores noted.
Safety Recommendations
Given the hazardous weather conditions, Chief Flores urged residents to refrain from driving unless absolutely necessary. This precaution is essential to ensure the safety of both individuals and emergency responders.
For those in need of a safe place to stay, the PSJA ISD has opened two shelters in San Juan and Alamo, providing refuge for displaced families. PSJA ISD Police Chief Rolando Garcia mentioned that these shelters will remain open as long as needed, recognizing that this situation has caused significant distress for many families.
Resources and Support
Residents affected by the severe weather can find additional support through local shelter initiatives. For further information on available shelters, you can visit the Shelters Open Across the Valley Due to Severe Weather link.
As the storm caused power outages affecting over 11,000 customers, those seeking updates on the conditions can refer to the latest news, including road closures and school cancellations due to the severe weather. More details are available at Severe Weather Moves Across the Valley and List of Road Closures in Effect Due to Flooding.
Conclusion
As the Rio Grande Valley continues to cope with the aftermath of these severe thunderstorms, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety during this challenging time. Local emergency services are working diligently to manage the fallout from these storms, ensuring that help is available for those in need.
For the most up-to-date weather alerts and safety resources, consider downloading the KRGV FIRST WARN 5 Weather App or following the KRGV First Warn 5 Weather Team on Facebook and X.
