REMNANTS OF TROPICAL STORM FAY POSE CONTINUING FLOOD THREAT IN
SOUTHERN TEXAS

September 9, 2002 — The remnants of Tropical Storm Fay continue to pose a flooding threat across portions of south-central Texas. The system continues to generate bands of showers and thunderstorms across Texas, with locally heavy rainfall causing additional flood problems. (NOAA image of flash flooding.)

Tropical Storm Fay was downgraded to a tropical depression soon after making landfall near Matagorda, Texas, early Saturday morning. It then drifted southwest of San Antonio and stalled. By Sunday night, it was on the move again drifting southwest.

Numerous tornadoes were spawned by the system. Two injuries and moderate property damage were reported, but no deaths. Heavy rainfall was the main problem with 2-to-5 inches reported across most of southern and southeastern Texas. Five-to-10 inches fell in widely scattered areas, and isolated amounts of 10-to-22 inches were estimated by radar. The heaviest rainfall amount was 22 inches reported northeast of Freeport, Texas.

While the river flood threat has diminished, minor to moderate flooding is still possible along the Nueces, Frio, Medina and San Antonio Rivers in south central Texas.

"The good news is that the remnants of Fay will drift southwest across the Lower Rio Grande valley Tuesday," said Constantine Pashos, lead forecaster at the NOAA National Weather Service forecast office for Austin/San Antonio. "That will provide some relief for the farmers in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, which remains in a severe drought condition."

NOAA Flood Saftey Tips

• Be aware of streams and drainage channels in the area.
• Avoid flooded low areas, even if not near rivers and streams.
• Monitor NOAA Weather Radio.
• Never attempt to walk through moving water.
• Contact the local emergency management agency to learn about measures to protect property.
• Restrict children from playing near flood waters and culverts.
• Test drinking water for potability.
• Wash canned food and avoid fresh food that has been in contact with flood waters.

NOAA National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States and its territories. NOAA National Weather Service operates the most advanced weather and flood warning and forecast system in the world, helping to protect lives and property and enhance the national economy.

Relevant Web Sites
Latest Information on Fay from NOAA’s Hydrometeorological Prediction Center

NOAA’s National Weather Service Southern Region

NOAA’s Floods Page

Significant River Flood Outlook

Excessive Rainfall Forecast

USA River Conditions

NOAA's River Forecast Centers

NOAA Rainfall Graphics
24-hour Observed Precipitation as of 8 a.m. today

Latest rainfall data as of 8 a.m. EDT today

NOAA's Storm Watch — Get the latest severe weather information across the USA

Media Contact:
Ron Trumbla, NOAA National Weather Service Southern Region, (817) 978-1111 ext. 140