Heavy rainfall in the southern U.S. state of Texas has resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals, with others still unaccounted for, according to officials on Friday.
The torrential downpour on Thursday morning triggered severe flash floods in San Antonio, sweeping vehicles off roadways and into a creek bed, as reported by local broadcaster KENS5.
The San Antonio Fire Department has continued its search efforts, reportedly looking for at least four more missing persons.
By Friday afternoon, city authorities confirmed that the number of deaths caused by the flooding had climbed to 10.
“Our hearts are with the families of those we’ve lost to this week’s flash floods and the families who continue searching for their loved ones,” San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg posted on X.
“I want to personally thank our San Antonio first responders and their families for their sacrifices toward the recovery efforts.”
City officials disclosed that first responders have carried out more than 70 water rescues and 16 high-water investigations since the start of the flooding.
Experts have consistently cautioned that climate change—primarily fueled by human activity and fossil fuel emissions—is contributing to more frequent and severe weather events, including extreme rainfall.