Austin Watershed Protection preparing for potential flooding this week

AUSTIN (KXAN) --- With a rainy week in the forecast, the city of Austin started preparing for potential flooding.

Watershed Protection told KXAN that its crews cleared out debris in creeks and that it's in a good position to handle this week's wet weather.

"Our more sensitive low water crossings, we had staff out over the weekend checking them," said Watershed Protection Field Operations Division Manager John Beachy.

Beachy said rain on Sunday already caused some road closures. People can check ATXFloods.com for updates.

"We ended up having to close five of our low water crossings."

John Beachy, Austin Watershed Protection

Watershed Protection moved from normal hours of operation to a 24/7 approach.

"Staff are ready to respond and close roads and clear debris any hours of the day," Beachy said.

Homeless Strategy Office alert

Another city department preparing for the rain was the Homeless Strategy Office. It alerted people about potential flooding concerns this week via its text message notification system.

"HSO, along with, outreach partners in the community provide outreach to encampments regularly, stressing safety and well-being, and encouraging people to seek higher ground away from low water crossings, creeks, and channels. During high and low rainfall, many of these areas can become dangerous."

Homeless Strategy Office Spokesperson

HSO said during periods of heavy rain and flash flooding people should do the following: 

• Monitor local media and @ATXfloods on Twitter/X. 
• Move to higher ground. 
• Stay away from creeks, pipes, and drainage infrastructure. 
• Do not cross flooded roadways. Turn around don’t drown. 
• Avoid contact with floodwater due to potential health risks. 
• Call 9-1-1 for emergencies.  
• Visit www.atxfloodsafety.com for more information. 
  

For anyone spending time outdoors, leaders want people to stay aware.

"Even if it's not raining on top of you, our creeks rise in a flash," Beachy said. "Make sure you're ready to get out and find a safe way."

HSO said the city encourages all residents – regardless of housing status – to sign up for Warn Central Texas emergency notifications.