Catastrophic Flooding Continues Across Texas
Texas is grappling with one of the most devastating flood disasters in its recent history, as at least 161 people remain missing and the confirmed death toll has risen to 109, according to state emergency officials on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
Relentless storms over the past week have caused widespread flooding across major cities, including Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. The National Weather Service reported that some regions received more than 20 inches of rain in just five days, overwhelming river levees and city stormwater systems.
Rescue Operations Ongoing
More than 3,000 rescue workers from local, state, and federal agencies are conducting search and rescue missions in the hardest-hit areas. The Texas Department of Emergency Management confirmed that helicopters and boats are being deployed in flooded neighborhoods, particularly in Harris, Fort Bend, and Travis counties.
Governor Greg Abbott has declared a statewide emergency, mobilizing the Texas National Guard to assist with evacuations and relief efforts. More than 25,000 people have been displaced and are seeking shelter in emergency facilities set up across the state.
Infrastructure Damage and Power Outages
- Over 500 roads remain closed due to floodwaters or debris.
- Widespread power outages have affected an estimated 400,000 homes and businesses, with restoration efforts ongoing.
- Key highways, including portions of I-10 and I-35, have been shut down, hampering rescue operations and supply deliveries.
Officials warn that continued rainfall and saturated ground conditions could lead to further flash flooding and landslides in the coming days.
Federal Response and Aid
President Joe Biden has approved a federal disaster declaration for Texas, unlocking additional resources for recovery and relief. FEMA teams are on the ground assessing damage and coordinating with local agencies to distribute food, water, and medical supplies.
Weather experts attribute this historic flooding to a combination of a stalled tropical system over the Gulf and above-average rainfall fueled by climate change trends, which have made extreme weather events more frequent and severe in the region.
Public Safety Reminders
Authorities are urging residents to avoid travel in affected areas and to heed evacuation orders. The ongoing search for the missing continues as floodwaters slowly recede in some areas, revealing the full extent of the damage.
For up-to-date information, Texas residents are encouraged to monitor official emergency channels and local news outlets.
