San Antonio Flood Turns Deadly as Five Found Dead and Two Still Missing
Torrential Rains Turn Highways Into Rivers as Emergency Crews Launch Over 70 Water Rescues
A powerful storm system swept through San Antonio early Thursday morning, unleashing flash floods that have left at least five people dead and two others missing. The relentless rain began overnight, overwhelming roadways and trapping residents in a terrifying surge of floodwaters.
Early Morning Chaos as Flooding Overwhelms Streets
The San Antonio Fire Department began receiving emergency calls just after 5 a.m., particularly from the northeastern region near the Perrin Beitel neighborhood. Residents, many of whom were trapped in their vehicles, called for help as water levels rose rapidly around them.
According to officials, several individuals were stranded in their cars, some of which were later found swept into trees by the raging water. Firefighters reported that the victims appeared to have been caught in traffic before being overtaken by the flood.
Five Confirmed Dead as Storm Turns Deadly
Among the five confirmed fatalities were two men and two women. A fifth victim has also been recovered, though further details have yet to be shared. One of the victims has been identified as a 77-year-old woman. Names of the deceased have not yet been released as authorities notify families.
The search remains active for two more individuals who are believed to have been swept away during the chaos.
Widespread Damage and Dozens of Rescues
Fifteen vehicles were washed away in the flood, and emergency responders carried out at least 70 water rescues throughout the day. Ten people were successfully rescued from life-threatening situations, four of whom were hospitalized with minor injuries.
The fire department described the scene as “an extremely difficult rescue effort” that stretched across multiple miles and involved dangerous, fast-moving water.
Firsthand Accounts Highlight the Trauma
One local woman, Angel Richards, shared her harrowing experience. Her husband, Stevie, was on his way to work when he called to say he was caught in rising waters. Moments later, communication was lost.
"It's hard because I was on the phone when this happened, and then not to have a lot of communication, to see my car, it's devastating to me," she said.
Her story is just one of many from residents who were caught off guard by the rapid and powerful flooding.
Ongoing Search and Community Response
The San Antonio Fire Department remains focused on the search for the two missing individuals. They emphasized that while many water rescues involved stranded drivers in high water, others required crews to physically enter fast-moving flood currents to save lives.
Authorities are urging the public to remain cautious and avoid driving through flooded streets, especially as rain is expected to continue in parts of Texas.
A Stark Reminder of Nature’s Power
Thursday’s events underscore the danger of flash floods and the need for immediate response. As the community grieves the loss of life and hopes for the safe recovery of those still missing, emergency crews remain on high alert.
Local officials continue to monitor weather developments and are working with rescue teams to ensure no one is left behind. The tragedy has also prompted discussions around flood preparedness and public safety in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather.
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