Hey Mineola! If you live near the Sabine River, you’ve probably noticed the rising water lately. The National Weather Service has extended the Flood Warning, and we’re expecting minor flooding to stick around through the weekend. While this isn’t going to be a major flood, the water levels are still high enough to cause some problems, and it’s important to take a few simple steps to stay safe.
Why This Flood Warning Matters
The Sabine River has been running high for a while, and it’s going to stay above flood stage until Tuesday. This means that areas close to the river could continue to experience localized flooding. Roads could become dangerous, homes could be affected, and low-lying areas could see water buildup. Even though it’s not a huge flood, it’s still enough to cause some disruptions if you’re not prepared.
What You Need to Do Right Now
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Stay Informed: Flooding can sneak up on you, so it’s really important to stay up to date on what’s happening. Keep an eye on local news, weather apps, and alerts from the National Weather Service. If the situation changes, you’ll want to know right away. Being informed means you’ll have time to make decisions and take action if needed.
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Avoid Flood-Prone Areas: If you live near the river or in a low-lying area, it’s best to stay away from flooded roads. Even just a few inches of water can make roads tricky, so if you come across water, turn around. It’s always safer to take a longer route than to risk getting stuck in rising water.
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Move Your Valuables to Higher Ground: If you haven’t already, now is a good time to move anything important or valuable—like electronics, documents, or family keepsakes—out of harm’s way. The water might not seem like it’s rising fast, but flooding can happen quickly. Moving your belongings now could save you a lot of heartache later.
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Prepare Your Home: Take a few minutes to make sure your sump pump is working properly (if you have one). Clear out any debris from your gutters so the water can drain properly. If you’re worried about flooding, place sandbags around doors and windows. Also, if you’ve got outdoor furniture or trash cans that could be swept away by rising water, move them to a safe spot now.
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Have an Evacuation Plan: It’s always good to be prepared, just in case things get worse. Know the safest routes to higher ground, and make sure your car has enough gas to get you out of there if you need to leave quickly. Keep an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, and medications—having everything ready to go can save you time if you need to evacuate.
What’s Coming Next?
The Sabine River is expected to stay above flood stage through the weekend, so minor flooding could continue to affect Mineola for a few more days. The water levels might not rise much more, but that doesn’t mean it’s over. Roads might remain flooded, and it could take some time for the water to recede completely. Stay alert and keep an eye on any new updates as the situation develops.
The Sabine River’s rising waters present a minor flood risk in Mineola. While it’s not a major flood, it’s still something to take seriously. Stay informed, keep your valuables safe, and take the necessary steps to protect your home. A little preparation now will go a long way toward keeping you and your family safe.
