Austin, TX – Central Texas is about to get a solid dose of rain! Starting today and lasting through Saturday, we’re expecting up to 3 inches of rain to fall across areas like Austin, San Antonio, and the surrounding regions. While it won’t be a full-on storm, the rain will be steady, and some areas might see a lot of it in a short time, which could lead to localized flooding. So, if you’ve got plans or need to be out and about this weekend, here’s what you should be prepared for.
What to Expect Over the Next Few Days:
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Rainfall Totals: We’re looking at anywhere from 2 to 3 inches of rain through Saturday. It won’t be a constant downpour, but it will come in waves. Some of those waves could be pretty heavy, which means puddles and slick roads. So, keep that in mind if you’re driving, and be ready for a soggy start to the weekend.
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Flooding Concerns: Even though this isn’t a massive storm, it’s enough to worry about flooding in spots that tend to get overwhelmed by rain. Areas with low drainage, near creeks, or close to rivers might see flooding in low-lying areas. Flash flooding can also hit fast, so it’s important to stay alert for rising water.
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Heaviest Rain Timing: The heaviest rain will likely fall starting tonight and carry through Friday night and Saturday morning. There will be breaks here and there, but when it rains, it could come down hard and fast. So, if you’re out, be ready for some seriously wet moments.
How to Stay Safe in the Storm:
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Don’t Drive Through Flooded Roads: I know it’s tempting to push through, but please—don’t drive through flooded areas. Even just a few inches of water can make roads treacherous. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find a safer route. It’s a simple rule—turn around, don’t drown.
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Flash Flooding Is a Threat: If you’re near a creek or river, pay extra attention to the weather. Flash flooding can happen in a matter of minutes, and it’s often unpredictable. If you see water rising, or if a creek or river starts looking a little higher than usual, move to higher ground as soon as possible.
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Power Outages Are Possible: Heavy rain and wind can cause power outages, so it’s a good idea to have some emergency supplies. Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and a fully charged phone just in case. It’s always better to be prepared for a power hiccup than caught off guard!
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Clear Your Gutters and Drains: If you live in a place that has drainage issues, now’s a good time to check your gutters and make sure your drains are clear of leaves and debris. With all this rain, you don’t want water to back up in your yard or driveway. A little prep now can save you a lot of hassle later.
What’s Coming After the Rain?
The good news is, once this rain system moves out, we’ll see clear skies and sunshine by Sunday! It’s going to feel great to get some fresh air and enjoy a little break from the wet weather. The rain may make for a soggy weekend, but things will dry out pretty quickly after it clears.
Stay Safe and Be Ready!
This might not be a massive storm, but it’s definitely enough to make things messy. If you have plans this weekend, make sure you’re ready for rain, wet roads, and the potential for flooding in certain areas. Always stay informed about the weather, and if the rain gets really heavy, it’s a good idea to delay travel until it lightens up.
Once the rain is gone, we’re in for some gorgeous sunshine. So, hang in there! Stay safe, keep your plans flexible, and remember—being prepared makes everything easier when the weather turns.