Don’t Ignore This Alert: Major Flooding Hits North Texas With More Risks Ahead

North Texas is in the grip of dangerous flooding as rivers continue to swell, forcing officials to maintain flood warnings across several counties, including Dallas, Navarro, Kaufman, and Hunt. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Fort Worth reports that both minor and moderate flooding are affecting critical waterways, and residents are being urged to stay away from flooded areas and monitor the latest updates. Several rivers are already over their banks, including the Trinity River at key locations like Dallas, Rosser, and Trinidad, as well as the Cowleech Fork Sabine River in Greenville and the South Fork Sabine River near Quinlan. Chambers Creek near Rice is also seeing elevated water levels, with localized flooding impacting homes, roads, and farms.

Where Floodwaters Are the Worst

The Trinity River at Dallas has been a major point of concern, with floodwaters reaching 30 feet, creating dangerous conditions along riverbanks and low-lying neighborhoods. The good news? Water levels are expected to recede by late Friday night, providing some relief to those impacted.

But other areas aren’t in the clear just yet. The Trinity River at Trinidad is expected to crest at 36.1 feet by Sunday evening, and floodwaters may not fully recede until early Tuesday. Meanwhile, Chambers Creek near Rice saw its water levels peak at 27.6 feet Friday, with a gradual drop beginning Saturday morning.

Although flooding along the South Fork Sabine River near Quinlan is expected to ease after midnight Friday, the NWS warns that conditions could change quickly with any additional rainfall or shifts in river flow.

Why Driving Through Floodwaters Is a Deadly Mistake

Flooded roads continue to be one of the biggest dangers during events like this, and officials are pleading with drivers to heed warnings and avoid water-covered streets. Just six inches of fast-moving water is enough to stall a vehicle, and 12 inches can sweep most cars off the road. “Turn around, don’t drown” isn’t just a catchy slogan—it’s advice that could save your life. Riverbanks and low-lying areas are also off-limits, as they remain saturated and unstable. Unexpected surges in water levels could happen without notice, putting people at risk of being swept away or stranded. Even as floodwaters begin to recede this weekend, officials caution that hazards like slippery roads, downed trees, and hidden debris remain concerns.

The Outlook for the Weekend

While the worst of the flooding is expected to subside by late Sunday or early next week, residents in flood-prone areas are being advised to stay vigilant. If you live near rivers, creeks, or floodplains, have an evacuation plan ready, and keep an eye on updates from local officials. As river levels begin their slow descent, cleanup efforts will likely follow, but caution is key. Floodwaters are unpredictable, and the aftermath can be just as dangerous. Stay prepared, stay informed, and above all—stay safe.