New Braunfels assesses flooding impact after 7 inches of rain last Thursday

Recent heavy rainfall in Comal County has raised concerns about flooding, particularly in areas like Garden Ridge and Nashbridge Caverns, where residents reported over seven inches of rain last Thursday. The significant rainfall has had a direct impact on the Dry Comal Creek, a major contributor to flooding in downtown New Braunfels.

In response to the flooding, county crews promptly blocked off several roads, including Crew Canyon Road, Psalms Road, Alt Gout Lane, and Loop 337, to ensure public safety. Photos shared during the meeting highlighted the extent of the flooding at these locations, particularly at Crew Canyon and Walled Road.

Officials noted that the new bridge built through a TxDOT program on Psalms Road has been effective, but ongoing construction in the area has complicated access for damage assessments. Fortunately, the water levels at Loop 337, while high, did not crest over the roadway, indicating that the infrastructure has held up under pressure.

The county has also been monitoring water levels using USGS sensors. At one site, the gauge recorded over 20 feet of water, while the Chutes Dam showed over eight feet of water behind it. Access to the Chutes Dam was hindered due to flooding on Bunker Street, but crews were able to reach the Krause Dam to assess conditions.

As the county evaluates the damage and prepares to resume construction projects, officials are committed to keeping residents informed and safe during these weather events. The proactive measures taken by the county highlight the importance of infrastructure improvements and emergency preparedness in mitigating the impacts of severe weather on the community.