Lufkin, if you live near the Angelina River, now’s the time to pay attention. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning as the river has risen above flood stage, causing minor flooding in low-lying areas. While this isn’t a major flood, it’s enough to create issues—especially for those living close to the riverbanks.
This type of flooding can be deceiving. It’s not dramatic or fast-moving like a flash flood, but slow-rising water can still cause major headaches. Some roads could become impassable, yards and properties may see standing water, and if more rain falls, things could get worse. The good news? You still have time to prepare and protect what matters most.
Why This Flood Warning Matters
The Angelina River is running higher than usual, and while the flooding isn’t extreme, it can still create problems. If you live in a flood-prone area, near the river, or in a spot that tends to hold water after heavy rain, you need to take precautions.
Water levels could stay elevated for a few days, and if more rain moves in, flooding could spread. Even if your home isn’t at risk, you might run into road closures or water covering streets you travel every day.
What You Can Do Right Now
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Stay Informed: Check local weather updates frequently. The situation can change quickly, and you don’t want to be caught off guard if water levels rise further. Tune in to local news, weather apps, and alerts from the National Weather Service.
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Avoid Flooded Roads: This one is simple but so important—do not drive through flooded areas. It only takes a few inches of water to make a road dangerous, and it’s impossible to tell how deep the water really is. If you see water over the road, turn around and find another way—it’s not worth the risk.
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Move Valuables to Higher Ground: If you live near the river or in a low-lying area, take a few minutes to move important belongings—like electronics, important documents, and family keepsakes—to a higher floor or safer spot. Even minor flooding can be expensive and frustrating to deal with, so it’s better to be proactive.
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Prepare Your Home: If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s working. Clear out your gutters and drains to help redirect water away from your home. If you think water might reach your house, consider using sandbags around doors and windows to keep it out. And don’t forget about outdoor furniture, trash bins, or anything else that could get washed away—secure it now.
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Have a Plan in Place: While this is just minor flooding for now, things can change. Make sure you know the safest routes to higher ground, and keep your car fueled up in case you need to leave in a hurry. It’s also a good idea to have an emergency kit ready with water, snacks, medications, and important papers—just in case.
What’s Next?
Minor flooding along the Angelina River is expected to continue for the next few days. While water levels aren’t projected to rise much higher, that could change if more rain moves in. Be ready for possible road closures and standing water in low-lying areas. Keep an eye on updates, and don’t assume the danger has passed just because the water isn’t rising fast.
The Angelina River is above flood stage, and while this isn’t a major event, it’s still something to take seriously. Stay informed, protect your belongings, and avoid flooded areas. The water may not be rushing in, but even slow-rising floods can cause major issues. A little preparation now can save you a lot of trouble later.
