North Texas drivers got a soggy wake-up call this afternoon, as the National Weather Service warned that parts of Denton, Cooke, and Wise counties could see quick-hit flooding in low-lying spots and on roads that do not drain well. The flood advisory was listed as in effect until about 3:30 p.m., with officials cautioning that standing water could make some streets and crossings temporarily impassable. Motorists were urged to steer clear of flooded roads and head for higher ground if water starts to rise.
What the advisory covers
At 1:37 p.m., the Fort Worth office of the National Weather Service issued an updated advisory covering Denton, Wise, and Cooke counties, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. The paper reports that the NWS warned that "flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected" and described the risk as "minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas." The advisory was scheduled to expire in the mid-afternoon hours.
NWS warns of fast-moving water
The National Weather Service Fort Worth office doubled down on its familiar flood-safety mantra, reminding residents that most flood deaths happen in vehicles and that as little as 12 inches of fast-moving water can carry away most cars, per the National Weather Service Fort Worth. The office repeated the message to "Turn around, don't drown," and advised anyone trapped by moving water to call 911 and get to the highest reachable point. Officials also noted that even 6 inches of swiftly moving water can knock a person off their feet.
Roads and local impacts
Local coverage and the advisory both warned that heavy rain can quickly cover roadways and turn low-water crossings into no-go zones. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported that officials were urging drivers to obey posted closures and build in extra travel time. County public works crews and sheriff's departments typically coordinate temporary shutdowns during these short-lived events, and motorists are urged to follow their directions. If you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around, don't drown.
How to stay prepared
The NWS recommends that residents in flood-prone areas move to higher ground when needed, disconnect utilities if evacuating, and keep an emergency kit ready to go. Detailed checklists and maps are available on the agency's flood safety page at the National Weather Service. For drivers, the advice is simple but serious: never try to cross a flooded road. Even a relatively small amount of moving water can disable a vehicle and put everyone inside at risk. Officials urge residents to monitor official updates and follow instructions from local emergency managers until the advisory is lifted.
