Interactive Segments
Brushy Creek
This flood incident took place less than 25 miles from one the highest recorded rainfall rates in the world. Neither Brushy Creek, nor the bridge is marked in any way. And, other than guardrails, this creek is basically imperceptible to approaching drivers. This woman was rescued after hanging on to a tree for more than an hour in the rushing water. The bodies of the two other motorists were found the following day, one 6 and a half miles downstream. read more >
The majority of flood-related deaths are caused by people attempting to drive through moving water. This interactive segment explains the most common ways people die in these situations.
The Texas Challenge
Texas is prone to extremely heavy rains and flooding with half of the world record rainfall rates (48 hours or less). Central Texas (known as Flash Flood Alley) is particularly vulnerable because storms stall out along the Balcones escarpment.
The Lower Colorado River Authority and the Central Texas "Christmas Flood" of 1991
The
dramatic "Christmas Flood" of 1991 highlighted how
LCRA manages the Colorado River and Highland Lake system during
major flood events. This was a major event that impacted hundreds
of homeowners along the watershed. Lake Travis, which had to
perform its job as a flood storage area, was hit particulary
hard. During such floods, LCRA directs river operations from
its headquarters, where careful monitoring dictates a quick
and judicious response in the operation of the dams. read more >