El Paso, TX — A powerful round of flash flooding late Tuesday evening, August 12, left several areas of El Paso underwater, with the Kern Place neighborhood near UTEP among the hardest hit, according to KTSM.
Vehicles Stranded Across the City
The El Paso Fire Department reported multiple incidents of cars becoming stuck in rising waters. Crews responded to situations in:
- West El Paso near Porfirio Diaz
- Eastside near Rojas Drive
- Mesa and Cincinnati
- Mesa and McKelligon Canyon Road
A fire spokesperson said that in some cases, “people had to get themselves out to their vehicles and do a ‘self-rescue.’” Video provided by viewer Chris Amador appeared to show fire personnel assisting a motorist from a stranded vehicle.
Street Closures and Emergency Requests
Floodwaters prompted the Fire Department to request police street closures in multiple Kern Place locations to keep traffic away from hazardous areas. Officials also asked police to close the I-10 Downtown on-ramp as a precaution.
According to KTSM, cars stalled in deep water on both the Eastside and Westside, with firefighters moving quickly to assess the situations and help affected residents.
No Injuries Reported, but Risk Remains
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, but emergency officials are urging drivers to avoid flooded streets and remember the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” safety rule. Even a few inches of moving water can disable a vehicle or sweep it away.
Public safety officials continue to monitor water levels and are prepared to respond to additional emergencies should the weather conditions persist.
What’s your take on the increasing flash flood incidents in El Paso? Share your thoughts in the comments.
