Deadly flooding along waterways in Texas Hill Country has surpassed historic levels reached just one year ago.
The National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio has issued watches, warnings and emergencies throughout the region due to the potential for life-threatening flooding.
A video of a California truck driver caught in the Texas flood showed just how serious this situation is.
Gabriel Pablo drove from Fresno, Calif., to Texas to pick up a load, according to local media reports. In Uvalde County, the flood quickly engulfed Pablo’s truck and swept it away while he was still in the cab.
“At that point, I said, ‘You know what? I better do something,” Pablo told a San Antonio television station. “The truck started slipping, going fast.”
As water rushed into the cab, Pablo managed to open the passenger-side window and climb onto the roof.
The situation remained dicey as the truck continued to be carried by the flood, with Pablo atop the cab recording the ordeal.
Fortunately, the truck eventually got stuck between two trees, preventing the flood from carrying it any farther downstream and allowing rescue crews to reach Pablo.
“I’m just amazed at how things can change in one second,” Pablo said.
According to Texas officials, there has been at least one fatality related to this flood and nearly 30 rescue attempts have been made as of Thursday, July 16.
Evacuations have been ordered for Kerr County and Camp La Jita was evacuated ahead of the flash flood risk.
“We are dealing with and responding to a flood that is likely going to break records,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement. “There are over 1,300 state personnel from more than 30 agencies that are already activated. More than 800 vehicles, more than 75 boats and 20 aircraft have been deployed. Our primary focus right now and throughout the remainder of this torrential rain is saving lives.” LL
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