Devastating Flash Floods Strike San Antonio, Texas

On June 12, 2025, San Antonio, Texas, experienced severe flash flooding following intense thunderstorms that dropped between 5 to 8 inches of rain in a short period. The flooding primarily affected the northeastern part of the city, particularly around Loop 410 and Perrin Beitel Road. As a result, at least 11 people have been confirmed dead, and search efforts continue for several individuals who remain missing.

• June 12, 2025, 4:15 AM: San Antonio police and firefighters began receiving emergency calls regarding high water and stranded vehicles.

• June 12, 2025, 5:00 AM: The San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) initiated water rescue operations as floodwaters rapidly rose.

• June 12, 2025, 8:00 AM: By this time, SAFD reported at least 70 water rescues and confirmed multiple fatalities.

• June 12, 2025, 10:45 AM: The death toll rose to five, with ongoing search efforts for two missing individuals.

• June 12, 2025, Afternoon: Authorities continued to search for missing persons and recover vehicles swept away by floodwaters.

The flooding resulted in the tragic loss of at least 11 lives, with three victims identified as Martha De La Torre Rangel, Matthew Angel Tufono, and Victor Manuel Macias Castro. Many of the deceased were found in their vehicles, which had been swept into nearby creeks. The flooding also led to significant infrastructure damage, with multiple roads closed and power outages affecting approximately 30,000 residents.

The San Antonio Fire Department reported that 10 individuals were rescued from trees and bushes, having been swept away by the floodwaters. Four of those rescued required hospitalization for minor injuries.

San Antonio Police Chief William McManus emphasized the dangers of flash floods, stating, "The depth of the water and the speed at which it's traveling are very hard to gauge." He urged residents to heed warnings and avoid flooded areas. Mayor Ron Nirenberg expressed condolences to the families of the victims, stating, "Our hearts are with the families of those we've lost to this week's flash floods and the families who continue searching for their loved ones."

Some community members have raised concerns about the city's preparedness for such severe weather events, questioning whether adequate measures were in place to warn residents and manage drainage systems effectively. The rapid rise of floodwaters caught many drivers off guard, leading to tragic outcomes.

While most reports confirm at least 11 fatalities, earlier sources indicated a lower death toll of five. The number of missing individuals also varies, with some reports suggesting that as many as four people remain unaccounted for. The situation is fluid, and ongoing rescue operations may alter these figures.

Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with the San Antonio Fire Department deploying canine units and requesting assistance from Texas A&M Task Force 1. Authorities are focusing their efforts on areas around Salado Creek and Leon Creek, where many vehicles were swept away. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and exercise caution as recovery efforts continue.

• “The depth of the water and the speed at which it's traveling are very hard to gauge.” — William McManus, San Antonio Police Chief

• “Our hearts are with the families of those we've lost to this week's flash floods.” — Ron Nirenberg, Mayor of San Antonio

• “It happened really, really fast.” — Angela Richards, wife of a missing person

The devastating flash floods in San Antonio serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by severe weather and the importance of community preparedness in the face of natural disasters.