Flash Flood — El Paso, Texas

2006-08-01 · near Northwest Portion, El Paso, Texas

Wider weather episode

Thunderstorms within a saturated atmosphere repeatedly developed and moved over mainly the northwest third of El Paso County, concentrating in an area over and near the Franklin Mountains. Rainfall reports varied from 4 to more than 6 inches within 15 hours in this area, with an isolated report of about 8 inches on the western slope of the mountain range. Antecedent conditions from 4 days of heavy rains, combined with terrain effects of the mountains led to excessive runoff and flooding not seen on such a large scale in the El Paso area in more than 100 years. The power of raging arroyos and street flooding on sloped terrain moved dozens of vehicles and trees through the west side of El Paso. There was considerable structural damage as well to residences and businesses. Numerous roads were closed due to high water and roadbed damage, with several rescues made from trapped vehicles. Interstate 10 was closed just east of downtown El Paso. Water reached a depth of 4 feet in many homes in west El Paso, especially in the upper valley section. By early evening the Rio Grande River crested at 9.3 feet, the highest stage in 50 years, and nearly breached the levee system. Residents in the downtown area near the river were evacuated. Other evacuations took place in Vinton, Canutillo and northeast El Paso. At least 800 people were put up in temporary shelters, some remaining for several days. Amazingly, there were no deaths or serious injuries.As a result of the incredible damage from extensive flash flooding, El Paso County was declared a federal disaster area. Because of this historic event and subsequent heavy rain events, large ponds of water would remain for weeks to come at the bottom of the valley (El Paso Upper Valley). Thus a few roads remained closed, mosquitoes flourished and spread West Nile Disease, and explosive weed growth brought misery to allergy sufferers. Some businesses were closed for weeks while repairs were made.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5531708. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.