News Summary

Severe storms hit Austin, causing extensive flooding and power outages that left over 52,740 customers without electricity. Emergency services performed multiple water rescues across the city as flooding overwhelmed drainage systems and roadways. First responders reported no life-threatening injuries while attending to those trapped by rising waters. As conditions remain hazardous, cleanup efforts and preparations for potential further storms are underway.

Austin, Texas

Severe storms swept through the Austin area on Wednesday evening, resulting in extensive water rescues and widespread power outages. Emergency services conducted numerous operations to rescue individuals trapped by flooding, and over 52,740 customers were left without electricity due to storm-related damage.

The Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) and the Austin Fire Department (AFD) executed multiple water rescues throughout the city, highlighting the storm’s rapid onset and intensity. One notable rescue occurred in the 2200 block of W North Loop Blvd around 7:25 p.m., where one person was rescued, while another transitioned to a recovery mission shortly thereafter at 7:43 p.m.

In another incident later that evening, AFD successfully rescued a woman whose vehicle was caught in rising floodwaters at the 3200 block of Steck Ave. Fortunately, the woman was uninjured, though her car was left half-submerged. Additionally, ATCEMS carried out a rescue on the N. Interstate 35 service road, where two individuals were found stranded amid the flooding.

Fire and medical responders also dealt with a situation near Guadalupe Street and Airport Boulevard, where a person was swept downstream by the powerful current. Initial calls about individuals stranded near Hancock Drive led to the rescue of one, while a recovery effort was initiated for another as of 7:29 p.m. Texas DPS troopers joined the efforts to safely retrieve the individual being carried away by the water.

The AFD also received calls regarding vehicle rescues, including an incident in the 3500 block of Spicewood Springs Road, which ended without injuries. As responders worked diligently to assist those in danger, floodwaters brought numerous roads to a standstill, including Steck Avenue near MoPac, contributing to the overall chaotic scene.

By 11:16 p.m., the number of Austin Energy customers without power had risen from 212 to 267 as ongoing assessments revealed the extensive impact of the storm. Reports indicated that over 52,740 customers had lost power due to wind damage, downed trees, and compromised electrical infrastructure. Wind gusts were reported between 70 and 80 mph, resembling a Category 1 hurricane, which contributed significantly to the widespread damage.

As severe weather persisted, Austin Energy reported that no estimated time for power restoration was available. Customers were advised that outages could last well into the night and potentially several days. Cleanup efforts were also underway at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, where high winds had shattered glass doors, further underscoring the storm’s destructive power.

Additionally, meteorological reports confirmed that the storms produced significant hail, with some areas experiencing hailstones the size of baseballs. The National Weather Service noted that rainfall intensity overwhelmed drainage systems in lower-lying regions, leading to substantial flooding impacts across the city.

Throughout the evening, first responders remained vigilant and reported no life-threatening injuries among those they rescued, demonstrating their commitment to public safety amidst the hazardous conditions. The city braced for additional rainfall and potential storms going into the end of the workweek, with continued preparations for further emergency responses as needed.

In summary, the severe storms that struck Austin resulted in unsafe conditions causing numerous water rescues, significant power outages affecting tens of thousands, and considerable damage across the area. Ongoing assessments and efforts for restoration and cleanup are crucial in the aftermath of this weather event.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Austin Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Power Outages
Austin Hailstorm Causes Widespread Damage and Flooding
Severe Storm Causes Widespread Damage in Austin
Severe Hailstorm Batters Central Texas Causing Power Outages
Severe Thunderstorms Cause Damage and Flooding in Austin
Severe Storms Cause Damage and Flooding in Austin
Severe Storms Cause Destruction in Austin
INTERVIEW WITH MO CHOUMIL FROM ALLTECH NATIONAL TITLE
Severe Weather Alerts Issued Across Central Texas Amid Tornado Watch
Severe Weather Alert: Flash Flood and Tornado Warnings for San Antonio

Additional Resources

• KXAN News
• Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
• KVUE News
• Google Search: Severe Weather Austin
• CBS Austin
• Google Scholar: Storm Impact Austin
• FOX Weather
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Storm
• Chron Weather
• Google News: Austin Hailstorm

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.