Heavy rains keep drenching South Texas, tornado reported in San Antonio

Heavy rains continued to blanket South Texas on July 15, 2026, with a tornado reported in San Antonio amid fears of widespread flash flooding. The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado touched down near Interstate 10 in the northwest section of the city, though no injuries were initially reported. The storm system, which has brought persistent downpours since earlier in the week, is expected to linger through Thursday evening, with some areas facing up to 20 inches of rainfall. The deluge has already caused significant disruption, washing out roads and farmland while prompting numerous high-water rescues. In Uvalde County, rainfall reached up to 16 inches in certain locations, raising concerns over potential flooding. Authorities warned that the situation could worsen, especially in regions west of San Antonio and north of Route 90, where the risk of dangerous flash floods remains elevated. The National Weather Service attributed the prolonged rain to a stalled low-pressure system, which has allowed tropical moisture from both the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean to fuel the storm. Kerr County officials expressed heightened vigilance, noting that the area was still recovering from catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe River in 2023, which claimed over 100 lives. County representatives stated they had coordinated with summer camps and retreat centers to prepare for similar scenarios. Meanwhile, Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared disasters in multiple counties, signaling a broader emergency response. The state government has mobilized resources to address the ongoing crisis, ensuring that affected communities receive necessary support. Rescue efforts have been extensive, with teams working tirelessly to extract individuals trapped by rising waters. On Tuesday, video footage circulated online showing a rescue crew navigating flooded streets in boats, while another scene depicted a vehicle being carried away by swift currents. According to Maggie Berger, a spokesperson for Texas Parks and Wildlife, five people were rescued by the Texas Game Warden Search and Rescue Team, and four others were saved by local authorities. These operations underscored the severity of the conditions faced by residents. In Uvalde, the impact has been particularly pronounced, with at least two dozen water rescues conducted so far. Local officials have opened an event center to accommodate displaced residents, offering temporary shelter and assistance. In Sabinal, preparations are underway for a potential evacuation shelter, reflecting the growing awareness of the need for contingency planning. The community continues to rely on emergency services and local organizations to manage the unfolding challenges. Meteorologists described the current weather pattern as a typical mid-summer occurrence in Texas, occurring roughly once every five years. Monte Oaks, a National Weather Service meteorologist, explained that the slow movement of the low-pressure system has created a recurring cycle of heavy rain, leading to saturated ground and increased runoff. This phenomenon has resulted in a higher likelihood of flash flooding, particularly in lower-lying areas and near rivers. The combination of tropical moisture and stationary atmospheric conditions has made the situation more complex, requiring sustained monitoring and preparedness. As the storm system persists, officials urge residents to remain cautious and follow safety guidelines. Emergency management agencies are coordinating with local governments to ensure that communication channels remain open and that resources are distributed effectively. With the threat of further rainfall, the focus remains on mitigating risks and supporting those impacted by the recent weather events.