Austin, Texas, October 27, 2025
News Summary
In Austin, severe weather has led to the recovery of multiple bodies from local waterways following heavy rainfall. A coordinated search is ongoing for two individuals who were swept away. The storm prompted water rescues and highlighted the challenges faced by the homeless community during severe conditions, as outreach efforts had been made prior to the storm. As authorities continue their investigations, the region remains alert to potential flooding risks.
Austin, Texas
Severe weather in the Austin area has resulted in the recovery of multiple bodies from local waterways following heavy rainfall from Friday night into Saturday morning. Authorities have confirmed that a man and woman are among those still unaccounted for after being swept away during the storm, which prompted a series of water rescues and a coordinated search effort by public safety teams.
The Austin Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) conducted a water rescue around midnight on Saturday, October 26, after receiving reports of individuals being washed downstream by Shoal and Hancock Creek. The Austin Police Department (APD) was alerted at approximately 12:40 a.m. on Saturday. Despite extensive searches carried out by public safety officials, no victims were located by 2:30 a.m.
Later on Saturday evening, APD received a report of a body found near Shoal Creek, approximately two miles from the original rescue site. The relationship between this body and the earlier rescue operation is still under investigation. In addition, another body was discovered in Lady Bird Lake on Saturday, with authorities confirming that an adult was pronounced dead at the scene. The identity of the victim found in Lady Bird Lake has not yet been disclosed.
During the severe weather, four individuals experiencing homelessness were reported to have been washed away near a storm drain. Rescuers managed to save two, but the other man and woman have not been found. It remains unclear if these individuals are linked to the bodies recovered later.
Severe Weather Details
Heavy rainfall throughout the region caused significant rises in water levels, as noted by local residents. City officials reported that outreach teams from ATCEMS and the City’s Homeless Strategy Office had been active in vulnerable areas prior to the storm, offering shelter and resources. These outreach efforts also included warnings about the dangers of flash flooding.
The National Weather Service had been tracking severe weather in Central Texas, issuing a level 2 out of 5 risk designation for thunderstorms across the region. Forecasts indicated that the Austin metro area was expecting 2-3 inches of rainfall over the weekend, with public advisories warning residents of potential flash flooding risks due to excessive rainfall. The area was also under a flash flood watch, with the storm bringing dangerous winds and the potential for tornadoes.
Background Context
Austin has been proactive in its weather preparedness efforts, particularly concerning individuals experiencing homelessness. Prior to the severe weather, local news organizations reported on the city’s initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of vulnerable populations. However, the unanticipated severity of the storm has led to tragic outcomes as officials continue to search for those missing.
Summary of Key Events
- Severe weather impacted Austin from Friday night into Saturday morning.
- Multiple bodies recovered, with ongoing investigations.
- Two individuals from a storm drain remain unaccounted for.
- City’s outreach efforts were in place prior to the storm.
FAQ Section
What caused the recovery of multiple bodies in Austin, Texas?
Severe weather impacted the Austin, Texas area from Friday night into Saturday morning, leading to multiple bodies being pulled from the water.
How many individuals are unaccounted for after the severe weather in Austin?
Four individuals experiencing homelessness were reported to have been washed away near a storm drain, and as of now, a man and a woman have not been found.
What measures were taken to protect vulnerable populations before the storm?
City officials stated that outreach teams from ATCEMS and the City’s Homeless Strategy Office had been canvassing vulnerable areas before the severe weather to offer shelter and resources and to warn individuals about the dangers of flash flooding.
What weather conditions were expected during the storm?
The National Weather Service had anticipated the severe weather, designating a level 2 out of 5 risk for thunderstorms across Central Texas. Local forecasts indicated heavy rainfall in the Austin metro area, with an expected total of 2-3 inches of rain over the weekend.
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Additional Resources
- Austin American-Statesman
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- WKRN News 2
- Google Search: Severe Weather Texas
- Fox 7 Austin
- Google Scholar: Severe Storms Central Texas
- The Weather Channel
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flash Floods
- San Antonio Express-News
- Google News: Texas Weather
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
