Media Advisory: USGS Crews Measure Record Flooding in Eastern Texas

Reporters: Do you want to interview USGS scientists as they measure flooding? Please contact Jennifer LaVista. 

U.S. Geological Survey field crews are measuring record flooding in parts of eastern Texas following intense rainfall.

Rainfall amounts of 18 – 20 inches over the last four days have led to record flooding and evacuations in eastern Texas. 

Seven USGS crews are measuring high flood flows and verifying streamgage operations on the Sulphur, Cypress and Sabine River basins. Preliminary data show record flood peaks were measured at five locations on the lower portion of the Sabine River, downstream of the Toledo Bend Reservoir. In anticipation of intense flooding in the City of Orange, Texas, USGS crews will be making special discharge measurements and installing a rapid-deployment gage to support emergency management personnel. One USGS streamgage has been impacted by the floodwater and debris, and crews will repair the equipment once it is safe to do so. All other streamgages are fully operational and have not been impacted by the flood at this time.

USGS crews will keep tracking the movement of the floodwaters as rains continue and the water moves downstream. This information is critical for resource managers and emergency responders to help protect life and property. The USGS has coordinated efforts with the Army Corps of Engineers, the National Weather Service, Sabine River Authority and several other local and state partners.

There are about 550 USGS-operated streamgages in Texas that measure water levels, streamflow and rainfall. When flooding occurs, USGS crews make numerous discharge measurements to verify the data USGS provides to federal, state and local agencies, as well as to the public.

For more than 125 years, the USGS has monitored flow in selected streams and rivers across the United States. The information is routinely used for water supply and management, monitoring floods and droughts, bridge and road design, determination of flood risk and for many recreational activities.

Access current flood and high flow conditions across the country by visiting the USGS WaterWatch website. Receive instant, customized updates about water conditions in your area via text message or email by signing up for USGS WaterAlert. See where floodwaters go by following a stream trace at Streamer. View water data on your mobile device. Learn how a USGS streamgage works.