Early Tuesday in Medina County, a routine drive turned into a soaking-close call when a man's car got stuck in fast-moving floodwaters at a low-water crossing. The rescue unfolded before sunrise along Farm-to-Market 4516 near Quihi, west of Hondo, as overnight storms dumped heavy rain across South Central Texas. Emergency crews made it to the stranded vehicle in the dark and pulled the driver safely to shore.
Flood Watches, Flash Warnings And Soaked Roads
Even before the rescue, the National Weather Service had Flood Watches and Flash Flood Warnings posted across much of South Central Texas as storms marched through the region. Forecasters warned that additional heavy rain could trigger more flash flooding, with isolated spots seeing 8 inches or more. They also urged extra caution at night, when standing water is tougher to spot, according to the National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio.
Medina County Crews Roll Out Ladder Truck At FM 4516
Medina County emergency responders headed to the low-water crossing on Farm-to-Market 4516 near Quihi and brought in a ladder truck to reach the partially submerged car. Crews outfitted the driver with a life jacket, guided him back to solid ground and kept an ambulance on standby. Officials said the rescue wrapped up without any serious injuries. Those scene details and storm totals, including reports of up to 10 inches of rain in some locations, were reported by News 4 San Antonio.
Officials To Drivers: Turn Around, Don't Drown
Authorities are once again stressing the obvious lesson that so many people still ignore: never try to cross a flooded road. They note that low-water crossings can turn dangerous in a matter of minutes and that visibility before daylight makes judging depth even trickier. With Flood Watches still in effect, officials are urging drivers to hold off on nonessential trips or find alternate routes instead of gambling with standing or moving water.
