Wichita Falls residents demand flood safety measures at city council meeting

The Wichita Falls City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, focused heavily on community concerns regarding recent flooding and emergency preparedness. Residents voiced their frustrations and fears about the city's flood management and tornado warning systems.

Josie Rose, a long-time resident, expressed deep concern about the safety of the Martin Luther King Center, which currently serves as a shelter for vulnerable populations, including children. Rose highlighted the inadequacy of access routes during flooding events, stating that the center could become a trap if water levels rise unexpectedly. She urged the council to take immediate action to ensure the safety of those in the area, emphasizing the stress and anxiety that residents are experiencing due to the threat of flooding.

Michael Bowling, a meteorologist, addressed the council regarding the city's tornado siren policy. He argued that the current system, which only activates sirens when a tornado is observed, may not provide adequate warning for residents. Bowling suggested that the policy be revised to sound sirens whenever a tornado warning is issued, as this would align with practices in other cities and potentially save lives.

Ricky Lowe also spoke about flooding issues, particularly on the East Side of Wichita Falls. He pointed out that the area is prone to flooding due to its low-lying geography and called for improvements to drainage systems and flood management infrastructure. Lowe suggested that addressing the dam behind a local park could help mitigate flooding in the area.

Candace Archie raised questions about the floodgates on Duncan Channel, which are currently under repair. She sought clarification on their function and the timeline for their restoration, as well as the purpose of ongoing construction near the river.

In response, Russell Shriver, the director of public works, confirmed that the floodgates are being replaced and explained their role in protecting roadways from flooding. He noted that while the gates help manage water flow, they can only do so up to a certain river level, after which flooding can still occur.

The discussions during the meeting underscored the urgent need for improved flood management and communication strategies in Wichita Falls, as residents continue to grapple with the impacts of severe weather events. The council is expected to consider these concerns and explore potential solutions in future meetings.