San Saba River Levels Expected to Spike Over 20 Feet After Heavy Rainfall in Central Texas
SAN SABA, TEXAS — A Flood Warning has been issued for areas near the San Saba River after heavy rainfall across central Texas triggered a rapid and dangerous rise in river levels Thursday night. Officials with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) project the river could spike more than 20 feet within hours, cresting at nearly 26 feet by late Friday.
According to hydrologic forecasts, the San Saba River, which stood at just over 3 feet on Thursday evening, is expected to reach major action stage overnight, posing flooding risks to communities near Menard, Brady, and San Saba.
Flooding Likely Into the Weekend
The National Weather Service warns that this rise will push river levels close to moderate flood stage, with a forecast crest of 25.8 feet, just shy of the 27-foot threshold that defines moderate flooding.
Localized flooding of low-lying areas, roads, and river crossings is expected as runoff from recent storms feeds into the basin through the weekend.
“Residents should use extreme caution near the San Saba River and avoid flooded crossings,” meteorologists cautioned. “Conditions may worsen rapidly, particularly overnight when visibility is low.”
Heavy Rainfall Behind the Surge
The rapid rise follows several rounds of torrential rainfall across central and western Texas, with radar estimates showing 2 to 4 inches of precipitation in some spots over the past 24 hours. Saturated soil has increased runoff potential, accelerating the river’s sharp rise.
Communities including Brady, Menard, and San Saba are being closely monitored as water levels continue to climb through late Friday. Emergency management teams have been placed on alert for possible swift water rescues or road closures near low-lying rural areas.
Safety Tips for Residents
Authorities urge residents to stay alert and follow these safety precautions:
- Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads. Turn around, don’t drown.
- Keep an eye on local weather alerts and river gauge updates.
- Move vehicles and livestock to higher ground if near flood-prone zones.
Hydrologists expect river levels to gradually fall by Saturday, though additional rainfall could prolong flood risks into early next week.
Stay tuned to NapervilleLocal.com for ongoing coverage of Texas flood conditions and national weather alerts.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.