Austin, Texas, August 20, 2025
News Summary
Texas lawmakers have unanimously approved Senate Bill 3, aimed at bolstering flood warning technology across the state following severe flooding incidents. The bill requires the installation of advanced alert systems in flood-prone areas and establishes a grant program to assist local governments. As flash flood warnings remain in effect for much of Austin, authorities emphasize caution as significant rainfall is predicted, impacting roadways and local communities.
Austin, Texas – In response to severe flooding incidents that took place in July, Texas lawmakers have unanimously passed Senate Bill 3, which aims to enhance flood warning technology across the state. The legislation mandates the installation of advanced alert systems in areas identified as having a history of flood risks, ensuring that residents receive timely warnings about impending dangers.
The state’s Water Development Board has been tasked with pinpointing regions at risk, and the new bill will facilitate the installation of warning technologies such as sirens in these identified zones. Moreover, the legislation includes the establishment of a state-funded grant program dedicated to assisting local governments with the installation costs of these vital warning systems.
The urgency for improved flood warning measures is amplified by a current flash flood warning issued by the National Weather Service for much of the Austin area, effective until 2 p.m. this afternoon. Areas under this advisory include major localities such as Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Recent weather forecasts predict an accumulation of 1 to 3 inches of rain across these regions, with the possibility of an additional 2 inches of rainfall. Authorities are emphasizing caution, particularly in regard to low-water crossings which can become hazardous during heavy rains. As of this morning, radar and automated rain gauges have indicated significant thunderstorms contributing to these downpours.
The Texas Department of Transportation is reporting road damages due to flooding events, specifically on RM 2323 southwest of Llano. Recovery teams are resuming their efforts in West Kerr as conditions permit, while Llano police have reported that the Llano River reached 16.2 feet, flowing at 51,500 cubic feet per second. Flash flood warnings for Llano County have now been extended until 3:45 p.m.
Residents of Rio Llano are currently cut off from leaving their homes because of high water conditions; officials recommend that they remain indoors. In response to the escalating situation, Travis County ESD 1 has activated its Emergency Operations Center, and teams are on standby for immediate action. Governor Greg Abbott has deployed the Texas Task Force One and Texas Parks and Wildlife personnel for water rescue operations in Lampasas County.
The Llano River is anticipated to rise further due to slowly receding tributaries, while numerous low-water crossings and roadways have been closed throughout central Texas owing to the severe flooding. Reports indicate that emergency services are conducting search and rescue operations around central Texas and the Hill Country, including confirmed rescues in Marble Falls.
As of 10:49 a.m., there are 178 closed low-water crossings across central Texas. The Lower Colorado River Authority has opened floodgates at the Wirtz Dam and Starcke Dam to manage the storm runoff. Warnings are in effect for various counties, including Kerr, Real, Blanco, Burnet, and Williamson, with advisories extending through Sunday. Heavy rainfall has placed the Llano River in a moderate flood stage, indicating further potential rises.
Police in Lampasas have reported urban flooding due to persistent heavy rains, prompting the establishment of temporary evacuation sites for affected residents. Many once passable roads have now become impractical, and flood advisories have been declared for Kimble, Mason, McCulloch, and Menard counties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Senate Bill 3?
Senate Bill 3 is a piece of legislation passed by Texas lawmakers aimed at improving flood warning systems by mandating the installation of technologies to alert residents in flood-prone areas.
What is the current flood situation in Austin?
A flash flood warning is currently in effect for much of the Austin area, with forecasts predicting additional heavy rainfall that may lead to increased flooding risks.
What areas are affected by the flash flood warning?
The flash flood warning includes areas such as Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
How many low-water crossings are currently closed in central Texas?
As of the latest report, there are 178 low-water crossings closed across central Texas due to severe flooding.
Flood Warning Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Bill | Senate Bill 3 for flood warning technology |
| Areas Under Flash Flood Warning | Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville |
| Rainfall Predictions | 1 to 3 inches with potential for 2 more inches |
| Closed Low-Water Crossings | 178 in central Texas |
| Emergency Operations | Activated by Travis County ESD 1 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News
- Wikipedia: Flood Warning System
- CBS Austin
- Google Search: Texas Flooding 2025
- Axios Austin
- Google Scholar: Flash Flood Warnings Texas
- KXAN Investigations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Preparedness Texas
- NBC DFW
- Google News: Texas Flooding 2025
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.
