Three dead and over 200 rescued after severe storms flood streets of Texas

2 days ago 8

The streets are flooded after severe thunderstorms passed Primera, Texas. (AP Image)

At least three people died, and over 200 people were rescued after severe storms swept the southern part of Texas on Thursday and Friday.
Heavy rainfall subsided Friday along the Texas-Mexico border, yet rescue operations continued following severe storms that trapped residents, stranded vehicles, and closed an airport.
Harlingen officials reported receiving over 21 inches (53 centimetres) of rainfall during the week. Thursday's intense downpour led to severe flooding, with authorities rescuing more than 200 residents and another 200 awaiting assistance, AP news agency reported.

"This of course has been a historic and challenging event for the city. But Harlingen is strong. We have faced adversity before and we will get through this together," Mayor Norma Sepulveda stated during a Friday afternoon press conference.
In Palm Valley, near Harlingen, Jionni Ochoa, 46, and Pollyann Ochoa, 33, remained in their flooded home with knee-deep water. They described their belongings as waterlogged, with only their bed remaining dry.

Water infiltrated their home from 8 pm Thursday, including through electrical sockets. The couple disconnected power and attempted to salvage their possessions, including their pet axolotl.
In Alamo, emergency services conducted over 100 water rescue operations, assisting individuals trapped in vehicles and homes, as confirmed by fire department chief RC Flores during a Friday afternoon press briefing.
The flooding affected approximately 200 residences in Alamo, according to official assessments.
The city of Weslaco experienced approximately 14 inches (36 centimetres) of rainfall, as reported by Mayor Adrian Gonzalez. Emergency services performed between 30 and 40 water rescues for motorists and residents who became stranded due to rising waters.

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Power outages

Approximately 3,000 customers across several counties experienced power outages. Flood warnings persisted in South Texas counties through early afternoon.

School closed

Emergency shelters operated at an Alamo middle school, Weslaco, and Harlingen's convention centre. Over 20 educational institutions suspended classes.
Emma Alaniz, residing in a colonia north of Edinburg, remained house-bound due to flooding, unable to navigate the water-logged streets in her small vehicle.