Emergency officials are warning motorists to avoid travel or use extreme caution after significant flooding was reported Sunday along FM 170 in the Big Bend region.
According to a public alert from Terlingua Fire & EMS, floodwaters were reported across portions of FM 170, the scenic highway connecting communities along the Rio Grande between Study Butte, Terlingua, Lajitas and Presidio.
“Please stay put or use extreme caution,” the department said in a social media post. Officials noted that it takes only a small amount of moving water to sweep a vehicle from the roadway.
The Texas Department of Transportation has been notified of the flooding, according to the agency.
Flash flooding can develop rapidly in the Big Bend region, where heavy rainfall in mountain canyons and arroyos can send water rushing across roadways with little warning. Low-water crossings are particularly dangerous during storm events.
Motorists are urged to follow the safety message often repeated by emergency officials: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Travelers are encouraged to monitor local emergency notifications and road conditions before attempting to drive through the area.
No injuries or road closure details had been reported as of publication.
Photo: Terlingua Fire & EMS reported significant flooding along FM 170 and urged travelers to avoid unnecessary travel or use extreme caution.
