Flash Flood — Williamson, Texas

2001-11-15 · near Countywide, Williamson, Texas

Wider weather episode

Rainfall began near sunrise over Williamson County, with totals in the mid-morning period approaching 3 inches. By the end of the afternoon, amounts were generally 4 to 6 inches over the south portion of the county, with a major part of the rainfall occurring over the drainage area of Brushy Creek. Emergency planners reported the flooding along the San Gabriel River to be some of the worst since 1957. Numerous rescues were required, with some victims having to be pulled out of trees. At least 3 cars washed off a bridge over Brushy Creek south of Hutto. Several dozen people were evacuated from their homes and a few homes were destroyed. Nearly 3 dozen trailers and recreational vehicles were damaged or destroyed at resorts along SH29 east of Georgetown along San Gabriel Creek. Power outages were common but short-lived. Two deaths occurred in the Brushy Creek area. The first, a 27-year old man drowned after his car stalled in a low water crossing across Brushy Creek. He had left the vehicle and was last seen standing atop the flooded car, talking on the telephone. Shortly afterward, A 59-year old woman drowned after her car had stalled fin a low water crossing across Brushy Creek. Her body was found after being swept 600 yards downstream.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5272979. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.