Flooded streams and rivers are not safe for recreational boating. Many canoeists and kayakers have had to be rescued from dangerous rapids in flood-swollen streams and rivers. Never set up a tent or camper on the bank of a river or stream. It is best to allow some distance between the campsite and water so if a flash flood does occur, you will have more time to move to higher ground. If you live in a low-lying area or near a creek, pay close attention to the water level during heavy rain events.
Water levels rise rapidly during flash flood, often surprising victims.
Heavy rainfall upstream can cause a river or stream to rise quickly, even if it is not raining near you. Central Texas is no stranger to flooding. At Thrall, Texas, in eastern Williamson County, 32.0 inches of rain fell in 12 hours. The storm began brewing in the western Gulf of Mexico September 6th. It quickly formed into a hurricane then made landfall near Tampico, Mexico on September 7th.