Severe flooding swept across multiple regions of Texas in early July 2025, causing widespread damage, displacement, and disruptions across the state. A combination of intense rainfall and already saturated ground led to some of the highest water levels recorded in recent history. The following graphics and data illustrate where the worst flooding occurred and detail how high water levels reached in affected areas.
Major Flooded Regions in Texas
- Houston Metropolitan Area: The city and surrounding Harris County neighborhoods experienced rapid urban flooding. Bayous, including Buffalo Bayou and Brays Bayou, overflowed after 12-16 inches of rain fell within 48 hours.
- Central Texas (Austin & Hill Country): The Colorado River and its tributaries saw significant swells, with some areas near Bastrop reporting river levels over 30 feet, surpassing the flood stage by nearly 10 feet.
- East Texas (Tyler, Lufkin): Prolonged rainfall led to flash floods and riverine flooding along the Neches and Trinity Rivers. Some rural communities were temporarily isolated due to submerged roadways.
- South Texas (San Antonio, Corpus Christi): Heavy downpours overwhelmed drainage systems, causing localized street flooding and rapid rises in the San Antonio River.
How High Did the Floodwaters Rise?
- Harris County: Water levels in some Houston neighborhoods peaked at 4 to 7 feet above ground level in low-lying areas. Emergency services reported over 3,500 rescues during the peak of the flooding.
- Austin Region: The Colorado River at Austin crested at 36.2 feet, the highest since 2018, prompting evacuations in low-lying communities.
- East Texas: The Neches River at Diboll reached 18.5 feet, more than 6 feet above major flood stage, inundating several neighborhoods.
- San Antonio: The San Antonio River rose by 8 feet above normal, leading to closures of downtown riverwalk and adjacent streets.
Interactive Flood Maps and Timelines
Animated graphics released by the National Weather Service and Texas Department of Emergency Management show the progression of floodwaters from July 2 to July 6. The hardest-hit areas are marked by color-coded zones, with the deepest inundation observed in Harris and Bastrop counties.
Impact and Ongoing Recovery
Officials estimate that over 60,000 residents were affected, with damages exceeding $2.5 billion statewide. Recovery efforts are ongoing, and many communities remain under boil-water advisories as clean-up and assessment continue. For the latest safety updates and interactive flood maps, visit the National Weather Service and TDEM websites.
