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New Braunfels Faces Flash Flood Threat: State of Disaster Declared
10 days agoUS
New Braunfels, Texas, is bracing for continued severe weather as multiple rounds of storms have saturated the ground and left the region under a dangerous flash flood threat through Thursday, July 16, 2026. In response, Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster for Comal and Guadalupe counties, unlocking state resources to support local emergency response efforts.
Key Insights
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State of Disaster Declared: Gov. Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for Comal and Guadalupe counties on July 14, authorizing the use of all available state and local resources to cope with the emergency.
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Comal River Closed: The City of New Braunfels has temporarily closed the Comal River for all recreational activities due to poor water clarity, fast-moving water, and hazardous conditions.
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Emergency Preparedness: The New Braunfels Fire Department has swift water rescue boat crews on standby, and squad units have been converted to high-water vehicles. Barricades have been pre-positioned in flood-prone areas.
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Weather Forecast: The NWS predicts a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms Thursday night, with highs near 86°F and southeast winds gusting up to 20 mph.
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"Turn Around, Don't Drown": Officials warn motorists never to drive around barricades or through flooded streets, as even small amounts of moving water can sweep vehicles away.
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Why This Matters: Flash flooding is one of the deadliest weather-related hazards in the U.S. With cumulative rainfall saturating the ground, the risk of sudden, life-threatening flooding increases significantly — especially in low-lying and urban areas.
In-Depth Analysis
The Situation in New Braunfels
The New Braunfels area has been hit by intense, repeated rainfall that has left the ground unable to absorb more water. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), conditions can change "drastically and suddenly," making this a particularly dangerous weather event.
Government Response
On Tuesday, July 14, Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster for Comal and Guadalupe counties. This declaration authorizes:
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The use of all available state government resources.
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Activation of emergency response plans at the local level.
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Deployment of swift water rescue teams and high-water vehicles.
The City of New Braunfels has been proactive: crews have pre-positioned barricades in known flood-prone areas, and the New Braunfels Fire Department has swift water rescue boat crews ready around the clock.
Comal River Closure
By order of the Chief of Police, access to the Comal River has been temporarily closed. The city cited "poor water clarity, fast-moving water, and other hazardous conditions that make recreation unsafe." City staff will continue monitoring conditions and will reopen the river when it is safe.
How to Prepare
Residents and visitors in the affected areas should:
1.
Monitor weather updates from the NWS and local officials.
2.
Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.
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Never drive through flooded roads — just six inches of moving water can knock a person down, and one foot can sweep a vehicle away.
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Keep multiple alert methods available (phone alerts, NOAA weather radio, local news).
5.
Check road closure updates at newbraunfels.gov/roadclosures.
Who This Affects Most
This threat impacts residents of Comal and Guadalupe counties, particularly those living near the Comal River, low-lying areas, and locations prone to street flooding. Visitors planning recreational activities on the river should cancel or postpone until the closure is lifted.
FAQs
Is the Comal River open for swimming or tubing?
No. The City of New Braunfels has closed the Comal River for all recreational activities effective immediately by order of the Chief of Police due to hazardous conditions.
What should I do if I encounter water on the road?
Turn around, don't drown. Never drive around barricades or through flooded streets. Even a small amount of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
How long will the flood threat last?
The NWS warns that the flash flood threat continues through at least Thursday, July 16. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected, and conditions can change suddenly.
Where can I find road closure information?
Road closures are posted at newbraunfels.gov/roadclosures as conditions change.
Key Takeaways
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Stay informed: Check local forecasts and NWS alerts regularly. Conditions can change drastically with little warning.
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Avoid flooded roads: Never drive around barricades. Water depth can be deceptive, and currents can be stronger than they appear.
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Recreation on hold: The Comal River is closed — do not attempt to enter the water. Wait for official notice that it is safe to reopen.
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Emergency resources: Swift water rescue teams are on standby in New Braunfels. If you are in danger, call 911 immediately.
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Plan ahead: If you live in a flood-prone area, have an emergency kit ready and know your evacuation route.
Discussion
Have you been affected by the flooding in New Braunfels? Share your experience and tips for staying safe during flash flood events.
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this weather event!
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*Do you think the region is adequately prepared for this type of extreme weather? Let us know in the comments below!*
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