Strong storms and sudden flash flooding swept through the heart of North Texas on Tuesday evening, turning a mid-July night into a dangerous weather emergency across the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area.
Severe thunderstorm and flash flood warnings active for Dallas and Tarrant
A powerful line of storms moved through North Texas late Tuesday, bringing torrential rainfall, strong winds, and frequent lightning. A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Dallas, Ellis, Johnson, and Tarrant counties through 11:00 p.m. CDT, while a flash flood warning remains active for Dallas and Tarrant counties, also until 11:00 p.m.
The intense downpours have already led to significant water accumulation, triggering flash floods in multiple urban and suburban areas across the region.
Mountain Creek Lake rescue: kayakers in danger amid high water
At approximately 5:14 p.m., Dallas Fire-Rescue responded to Mountain Creek Lake, where three kayaks had overturned in the storm-swollen water. Witnesses reported seeing three people yelling for help, with one of them not wearing a flotation device. Emergency crews launched two boats and safely recovered all three kayakers from the lake.
Man clings to tree during creek rescue near Shady Trail
Just after 6:00 p.m., responders were dispatched to a creek near Shady Trail, where a man was spotted clinging to a tree limb to avoid being swept away by the current. According to officials, the man was rescued within 20 minutes, thanks to a fast and coordinated response.
Tuesday night and Wednesday at risk: ongoing weather threats
Local meteorologists warn that conditions will remain unstable through Tuesday night into Wednesday, with additional thunderstorms and the potential for new flash floods. Emergency officials urge residents to stay weather-aware, keeping multiple ways to receive alerts, whether through mobile devices, NOAA radios, or trusted weather apps.
Overnight temperatures are expected to hover around 77°F (25°C), with humid air and ongoing instability possibly triggering more storm activity after midnight.
