Heavy rainfall across the Texas capital area this week spurred flash flooding in parts of Austin and Central Texas, prompting road closures and alerts from local officials to avoid impacted low-water crossings and affected areas.
Due to inclement weather, traffic signals across the City of Austin might be flashing all-red or dark, according to Austin’s Transportation and Public Works. The department advised Austin drivers to treat dark signals like an all-way stop, watch for crews, and proceed with caution.
Here are the flooding-induced road closures in the greater Austin area, as well as what Central Texans need to stay safe amid the inclement weather.
Those needing to travel in the greater Austin area can also refer to the City of Austin’s Flood Early Warning System website for real-time road closure updates before beginning their commute. As of this week, there are currently six road closures in the Austin-area after flash flooding.
1050 block of County Road 328 near Balcones National Wildlife Refuge, closed as of Monday, July 13
While flooded roadways might appear to hold shallow water, flash floods can quickly develop and carry vehicles, debris and people away. Austin Emergency Management reminded drivers to always veer on the safe side and take appropriate precautions, including slowing down and turning on their vehicles’ headlights for improved visibility. In the event they come across high water, they shouldn’t attempt to cross it and should instead turn around and seek safer, drier roadways.
All drivers needing to travel in heavy rain should also avoid using cruise control, instead prioritizing reduced speeds and lengthening their following distance upwards of five to six seconds. If your vehicle starts hydroplaning, drivers need to ease their foot off the gas pedal to bring the vehicle back under control and should not slam on their brakes.
If rainfall intensifies and you can no longer safely see the roads or travel lanes in front of you, drivers should pull off to a secure location, such as a parking lot or area store, and remain in their vehicles until the storm dissipates.