Latest news with #FlashFloodAlley
Los Angeles Times
6 hours ago
- Climate
- Los Angeles Times
After L.A. firestorms and Texas floods, forecasters haunted by warnings not being heard
Meteorologists warned about the chance of flash floods days before Texas' Fourth of July disaster that killed at least 133. Yet, local officials in the hardest-hit areas say they were shocked by the scale of the devastation. 'I have cried on multiple occasions,' Chris Suchan, chief meteorologist with WOAI-TV Channel 4, the NBC affiliate in San Antonio, wrote in a recent Facebook post. 'At times, I've been overwhelmed with forecaster regret that I could have done more the night before in my weather report.' Forecasters often issue alerts for possible flooding, landslides and 'red flag' fire warnings multiple times a year. Sometimes, those warnings are followed by major catastrophes, but other times they are not. And that has led some to become complacent, rather than heeding the alerts. Two massive disasters this year — the Texas floods and Los Angeles firestorms — are leading some to grapple with the question of how to get officials and the public to care and take action. In the case of Texas, Suchan said he is experiencing what he calls 'forecaster regret.' That's despite having presented viewers a weather forecast showing 'a signal of localized flash flooding' on the afternoon of July 3 — hours before the disaster struck. During the 6 p.m. broadcast later that day, Suchan pointed to an area 'where we could see storms develop and then train over the same area. ... And that is a classic flash-flooding signal here in 'Flash Flood Alley.'' The disconnect between available warnings and the action officials and the public takes has been seen repeatedly over the years, from inadequate preparations in California ahead of fire weather or flood alerts, to the failure of some communities to evacuate ahead of the catastrophic tsunami that hit Japan in 2011. Of course, there are times when alerts are taken seriously, and forecasters and officials are in the same room. For instance, the publicity around Hurricane Hilary in 2023 reached a fever pitch as it headed toward Southern California. L.A. Mayor Karen Bass stood at press briefings along with then-Fire Chief Kristin Crowley and the National Weather Service. No deaths were reported in California, despite significant flooding and harrowing rescues in the Coachella Valley. There are other instances where preparation has helped Southern California emerge from periods of severe fire weather or landslide danger — such as through public safety power shutoffs, or crews emptying debris basins to catch mud pouring from landslides. The National Weather Service office in Oxnard, which issues forecasts for Los Angeles, has also made attempts to more clearly get its messages across. In 2019, the weather service issued an 'extreme red flag' fire weather warning that got plenty of attention. During last fire season, the agency issued an unprecedented five 'particularly dangerous situation' warnings ahead of forecast extreme fire weather conditions — including one on Jan. 6, a day before L.A. County's devastating wildfires began. Despite the weather service giving briefings as early as Dec. 30 about forecasted increasing fire weather danger, Bass was overseas in Ghana on Jan. 7, when the fire that destroyed much of Pacific Palisades began spreading rapidly. And the L.A. Fire Department, a Times investigation found, chose not to assign roughly 1,000 available firefighters for emergency deployment in advance of the Palisades fire, which ultimately killed 12 people and destroyed more than 6,000 homes, businesses and other structures. The Times has previously reported that the day before Bass left for Ghana, her aides received an email, on Jan. 3, from the city's emergency management department warning of 'high confidence in damaging winds and elevated fire conditions occurring next week.' A spokesperson for the mayor said the email did not suggest imminent catastrophe. Bass later fired Crowley as fire chief, and accused her of failing to provide adequate warning of the potential for a cataclysmic wind event. One simple lesson that could be learned from past disasters is that both officials and the public need to better respond to forecasters' warnings. An after-action report by the weather service from the Joplin, Mo., tornado disaster in 2011 found that most residents didn't immediately head to shelter after hearing the first warning. Among the reasons: apathy, a bias toward optimism and a feeling that sirens were activated too often in Joplin. But the weather service at that time also said it could do a better job at supporting 'effective decision-making,' which would help empower people to quickly make appropriate decisions. The agency said it should ensure that tools are in place to easily conduct conference calls with key entities, such as sheriff's offices and other emergency officials. Suchan remembers listening to weather service meteorologists recall the Joplin tornado, which resulted in 158 deaths — the first single tornado in the U.S. to cause more than 100 deaths since 1953. 'I listened to them describe feeling scarred by the disaster. They asked themselves if their warnings were early enough, strong enough,' Suchan wrote in his Facebook post. 'The room was very silent through that presentation. It left a mark on me but you can't fully understand that feeling until you experience it for yourself.' In Texas, flooding alerts circulated in the hours and days before the Fourth of July disaster. On July 2, Texas state officials, citing the weather service, warned that 'heavy rainfall with the potential to cause flash flooding' was anticipated over the following days. They said swift-water rescue boat squads would be available to assist with flood rescues. At 1:18 p.m. on July 3, the weather service issued a flood watch for Texas' Kerr County and other areas. On July 4 at 1:14 a.m., a flash-flood warning was issued, sounding the alarm for 'life threatening flash flooding.' At Camp Mystic, where at least 27 campers and counselors died, leadership was aware of the earlier flood watch, and also got a cellphone alert of the weather service's flash flood warning at 1:14 a.m. But they did not begin to evacuate campers in cabins near the Guadalupe River until more than an hour later, the Washington Post reported. The Post reported that waters began rising at the all-girls camp around 2 a.m., and breached at least one cabin around 3 a.m. Parts of Camp Mystic are considered at high risk of flooding, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. At a different camp along the same river, Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly, a facilities manager saw the river rising around 1 a.m., and told his boss, who had been monitoring reports of the storms approaching, the Associated Press reported. Camp officials there acted quickly to relocate 70 children and adults from a building near the river, and no one died. There was no warning from local authorities, the AP said. In an interview, Suchan said he wonders 'are there things that you could have done faster, stronger, or do things differently?' 'We're looking at a massive casualty event and it weighs on my heart,' he said. His counterpart at a local CBS affiliate offered a similar warning ahead of the flooding. Bill Taylor, weather chief at KENS-TV Channel 5 in San Antonio, showed a forecast weather model showing a severe storm 'just sitting still' for hours in the area around Kerr County. 'This would be a huge flood problem if this happens,' Taylor told his viewers on July 3. In an interview, Taylor said he doesn't feel guilt about how he conveyed his forecast, saying he gave all the information he had about the flood risk. Still, 'moving forward, in all honesty, I've even thought to myself recently how much of my verbiage will now change because of this disaster.' He and other forecasters say they hope people take things like flood watches more seriously moving forward, especially if they live in or visit low-lying areas prone to flooding. 'When we say 'flood watch' in this region, I mean, you've really got to be paying attention,' Taylor said. One lingering question is how closely officials in Kerr County — like the sheriff's office and emergency managers — were monitoring the storm. 'If those emergency managers were sleeping that night, oh my gosh ... they won't have a job anymore,' said Alex Tardy, a former weather service meteorologist who owns Weather Echo, a consulting company. Alerts about possible future floods should've triggered some kind of action well ahead of the storm — especially given the campgrounds located in the area, Tardy said. Suchan said a proper alerting system should be installed along the Guadalupe River. He noted that further downstream in neighboring Kendall County, the community of Comfort has sirens that were activated to warn of flooding on July 4, 'and there were no casualties.' 'I don't want to ever see a nightmare like [this],' Suchan said. 'It's 2025. We shouldn't be doing this.'
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Climate
- Newsweek
Texas Reservoir Fills to Levels Not Seen in 20 Years
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Excessive rainfall this month has eliminated much of the drought across Texas, with some lakes jumping more than 30 feet in less than two weeks. Among the lakes witnessing a significant rise is Lake Buchanan, a popular reservoir in Central Texas. Why It Matters Texas has battled years of drought that have seen many of its popular reservoirs' water levels plunge to dangerously low levels. For example, in 2023, water levels at Lake Travis became so low they revealed previously hidden pecan groves and a concrete plant. Lake Buchanan has seen similarly volatile water levels in recent years. A year ago, the levels were 73 percent full. As of the most recent measurements, levels were 99.8 percent full, according to Water Data for Texas, which is considered full capacity for the lake. A photo shows Lake Buchanan in Central Texas. A photo shows Lake Buchanan in Central Texas. Ryan Conine/Getty What to Know Over Independence Day weekend, torrential rain battered Central Texas, prompting the swift and significant rise of area rivers that brought deadly floods throughout the region. More than 100 people died. Nearly two weeks later, the water has worked its way into area lakes and reservoirs. Water levels at Lake Travis continue to rise, and Lake Buchanan was recently considered full when its levels hit 1,020 feet. Although Lake Buchanan was considered full in 2019 when its levels hit 1,018 feet, the reservoir hasn't hit the 1,020-foot level since March 2005, KXAN reported. The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), which manages Lake Buchanan, opened the floodgates at Buchanan Dam to let out some of the water earlier this week. "Unlike Lake Travis, Lake Buchanan has no room to store floodwaters after it is full. LCRA manages Lake Buchanan to a maximum level of 1,020 feet above mean sea level," an LCRA report on flood management said. The floodgates were closed on Wednesday afternoon, an LCRA spokesperson told Newsweek. "Floodwater from Lake Buchanan was sent downstream through the series of dams on the Highland Lakes to Lake Travis, the only lake on the Highland Lakes with room to store floodwaters," the spokesperson said. "Our short-term projections are that Lake Travis will rise up to 675 feet above mean sea level over the next several days. As of 3:40 pm Central Time today Lake Travis is at 673.79 ft msl, or 88% full." What People Are Saying An LCRA spokesperson previously told Newsweek: "We have seen similar relatively large increases in the history of Lake Travis, which is in Flash Flood Alley." LCRA posted on X, formerly Twitter, earlier this week: "Floodgate operations from Lake Buchanan today. LCRA opened a total of four floodgates at Buchanan Dam on July 14 – the first floodgate operations there since May 2019. This coordinated response helps manage significant water inflows across the Highland Lakes system." CBS Austin reporter Bettie Cross posted on X: "Lake Buchanan hasn't looked like this in 15 years. It's 100% full. The LCRA is preparing to open 2 floodgates this afternoon. It will be the first time the @LCRA has opened a floodgate at Buchanan Dam since 2019." What Happens Next Water levels at Texas lakes and reservoirs will change throughout the summer depending on heat, water usage, and if there's continued rainfall in the region.
Newsweek
4 days ago
- Climate
- Newsweek
Texas Drought Update As Popular Lake Hits Highest Level Since 2020
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Repeated bouts of torrential rainfall have eliminated much of the drought that plagued Texas earlier this year. The heavy rain caused river levels to surge, which then funneled water into Texas reservoirs, including Lake Travis, a major reservoir near Austin. Lake Travis experienced a sharp rise in water levels following deadly floods over the July 4 weekend and has now hit its highest level since June 2020. "We have seen similar relatively large increases in the history of Lake Travis, which is in Flash Flood Alley," a spokesperson for the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), which manages the lake, told Newsweek. Why It Matters The dramatic turnaround in Lake Travis' water levels underscores the volatility of Texas' climate, where extreme drought can rapidly give way to destructive flooding. Prior to the rain, Lake Travis was only 43 percent of its capacity. At times over the past few years, water levels fell so low they exposed objects usually hidden underwater, such as an old concrete plant and pecan groves. An aerial view of Lake Travis. An aerial view of Lake Travis. RoschetzkylstockPhoto/Getty The recent floods, with some areas receiving more than 20 inches of rain, not only revived water levels but also led to deadly consequences and hazardous conditions for local communities. More than 100 people were killed, including 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic in Kerr County. Water officials stressed that sudden surges in lake levels are not unusual in the region, nicknamed "Flash Flood Alley" for its exposure to intense, rapid storm events. What to Know As of the most recent measurements from the U.S. Drought Monitor, roughly 23 percent of Texas was facing moderate drought conditions or worse. A map of the drought showed that it was concentrated in the southwest part of the state. The state's drought is much improved compared to three months ago, when the more than 58 percent of the state battled moderate drought conditions or worse. Lake Travis, part of the Highland Lakes system, has faced severe water shortages for years amid persistent droughts. These drought conditions were interrupted by sporadic heavy rains in 2024, but the relief was short-lived as dry conditions soon returned. Water loss due to evaporation also remained a major challenge. The deadly floods over the July 4 holiday marked a dramatic reversal for Lake Travis' water levels. In just days, the lake rose from 43 percent to 81 percent of its total capacity according to Water Data for Texas. As of Tuesday morning, the lake was at 670 feet, around 10 feet below its full capacity. It's the highest the lake has been since June 2020. Before the July 4 weekend, the water level was at just under 640 feet. The reservoir is prone to sudden rises and falls, with significant jumps in water levels documented throughout its history. Local officials warned of continued flood risks and high bacteria levels typical after flood events, and recommended that the public avoid the water until conditions stabilize. Experts say that the health of Texas reservoirs like Lake Travis depends on both weather patterns and conservation, as well as human factors like population growth and increasing water usage. The 2025 flood's impact is expected to restore short-term stability but illustrates the ongoing vulnerability of the state's water infrastructure to environmental extremes. What People Are Saying The LCRA spokesperson told Newsweek: "Levels in Lake Travis later this summer will depend on a combination of heat and wind, water usage in Central Texas and if/where we see continued rainfall in watershed." LCRA Executive Vice President of Water John Hofmann said in a press release about recreation at the lake after the floods: "Conditions for boating are better than they were a few days ago, but still require extra caution. Our crews have located and replaced most of the missing marker buoys damaged or displaced by the floods, but boaters still need to be extremely careful to avoid flood debris." What Happens Next Lake Travis water levels continue to rise as floodwaters move through the system. By mid-week Texas will see a respite from the heavy rain as high heat and humidity moves into the region, which could slow the lake's improvement or reverse its course.
Economic Times
5 days ago
- Climate
- Economic Times
Texas flooding: stories of loss, resilience, and urgent need
Grief in Kerr County Camp tragedy Live Events What this crisis teaches us Nature's fury vs. human vulnerability In Flash Flood Alley, rivers can transform from gentle streams into walls of water in under an hour—catching even the prepared unaware. The value of modern alerts Had broader public-alert systems been activated sooner, more lives might have been spared. Now, the state is facing pressure to modernize and act faster. Community matters From families carrying each other on boats to college towns holding processions for victims, neighborliness is rising in response to tragedy. These moments of unity reflect the very best of the human spirit, even in darkest times. Legacy of loss Beyond the statistics—children, campers, parents, counselors, couples with plans and dreams—were lives rich in potential and love. Their absence is not just a number—it's a void felt in homes, campuses, and churches across Texas. How you can help & respond Stay weather-wise : If you're in the Hill Country or other flood-prone regions, sign up for public alert systems like IPAWS and CodeRED. : If you're in the Hill Country or other flood-prone regions, sign up for public alert systems like IPAWS and CodeRED. Support recovery : Many families need help with housing, food, and funeral costs—donations to vetted local groups can make an immediate difference. : Many families need help with housing, food, and funeral costs—donations to vetted local groups can make an immediate difference. Push for change : Reach out to local representatives to advocate for upgrades to early-warning systems and better emergency protocols. : Reach out to local representatives to advocate for upgrades to early-warning systems and better emergency protocols. Hold space for grief: In towns across Texas, vigil events and memorials are planned to honor those lost. Sharing their stories helps ensure they're never forgotten. (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel In the heart of Texas Hill Country, the floods claimed at least 132 lives—many in Kerr County , where entire families and groups of campers were swept away in a matter of hours. Boats, trailers, and homes vanished as the waters tore through the Guadalupe River canyon. Authorities are still searching for over a hundred people believed to be missing. One of the most heartbreaking stories: a young college student who stayed behind to help shelter loved ones, his final call cut short by the raging flood before his home was washed away. His voice now a powerful reminder of bravery in utter Mystic and a neighboring youth camp were struck at night, with dozens of campers and counselors caught in flash floods . A camp leader delayed evacuation—making split-second decisions as waters surged. The loss of children and caregivers has left families and communities shattered. Investigations reveal that code-based alerts (CodeRED) were used instead of broader systems like IPAWS. Residents didn't receive timely warnings via all channels—some alerts arrived after the worst had already passed, spurring calls for and recovery efforts continue—amid rising rivers and renewed storms. Crews are using boats, drones, sonar, and dog teams to bring closure to families. But the danger isn't over: flood watches persist, and another round of heavy rain is on the started as a holiday weekend turned into one of the deadliest inland flood events in modern U.S. history. The immediate focus is on rescue and recovery—but the deeper challenge lies in learning, adapting, and preventing future tragedies.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Climate
- Time of India
Texas flooding: stories of loss, resilience, and urgent need
Grief in Kerr County In the heart of Texas Hill Country, the floods claimed at least 132 lives—many in Kerr County , where entire families and groups of campers were swept away in a matter of hours. Boats, trailers, and homes vanished as the waters tore through the Guadalupe River canyon. Authorities are still searching for over a hundred people believed to be missing. Lives upended One of the most heartbreaking stories: a young college student who stayed behind to help shelter loved ones, his final call cut short by the raging flood before his home was washed away. His voice now a powerful reminder of bravery in utter chaos. Camp tragedy Camp Mystic and a neighboring youth camp were struck at night, with dozens of campers and counselors caught in flash floods . A camp leader delayed evacuation—making split-second decisions as waters surged. The loss of children and caregivers has left families and communities shattered. Flawed warning systems Investigations reveal that code-based alerts (CodeRED) were used instead of broader systems like IPAWS. Residents didn't receive timely warnings via all channels—some alerts arrived after the worst had already passed, spurring calls for reform. Live Events Rescue in the rain Search and recovery efforts continue—amid rising rivers and renewed storms. Crews are using boats, drones, sonar, and dog teams to bring closure to families. But the danger isn't over: flood watches persist, and another round of heavy rain is on the way. What this crisis teaches us Nature's fury vs. human vulnerability In Flash Flood Alley, rivers can transform from gentle streams into walls of water in under an hour—catching even the prepared unaware. The value of modern alerts Had broader public-alert systems been activated sooner, more lives might have been spared. Now, the state is facing pressure to modernize and act faster. Community matters From families carrying each other on boats to college towns holding processions for victims, neighborliness is rising in response to tragedy. These moments of unity reflect the very best of the human spirit, even in darkest times. Legacy of loss Beyond the statistics—children, campers, parents, counselors, couples with plans and dreams—were lives rich in potential and love. Their absence is not just a number—it's a void felt in homes, campuses, and churches across Texas. How you can help & respond Stay weather-wise : If you're in the Hill Country or other flood-prone regions, sign up for public alert systems like IPAWS and CodeRED. Support recovery : Many families need help with housing, food, and funeral costs—donations to vetted local groups can make an immediate difference. Push for change : Reach out to local representatives to advocate for upgrades to early-warning systems and better emergency protocols . Hold space for grief : In towns across Texas, vigil events and memorials are planned to honor those lost. Sharing their stories helps ensure they're never forgotten. Bottom line What started as a holiday weekend turned into one of the deadliest inland flood events in modern U.S. history. The immediate focus is on rescue and recovery—but the deeper challenge lies in learning, adapting, and preventing future tragedies.
