Photo by Jonathan Berry

Austin, TX - This Memorial Day weekend marks ten years since the catastrophic floods of 2015 that claimed lives, devastated communities, and forever changed Central Texas. Historic flash flooding occurred on the Blanco and San Marcos rivers beginning Saturday, May 23, causing at least 12 deaths and destroying more than 2,000 homes in Hays County. On Memorial Day itself, nearly five inches of rain fell on Austin, overwhelming local waterways, flooding downtown, and leaving nearly 150 properties damaged in Travis County. Roads across the region—nearly 500 in total—were submerged.  

To mark ten years since this tragic event, Mayor Kirk Watson has proclaimed May 25, 2025, as “2015 Austin Flood Remembrance Day.”  

“Today, we honor those who lost their lives during the destructive floods that hit our community a decade ago and recognize the brave emergency personnel who responded to one of the most devastating weather events in Austin’s history,” said Mayor Kirk Watson. “This anniversary reminds us how resilient our community is as well as the importance of continuing to improve our flood response infrastructure.”  

Over the past decade, the city has made significant strides to protect our community from the impacts of flooding. We have Capital Improvement Projects that enhance local drainage systems and infrastructure in flood-prone areas around the city. We have improved our Community Rating System flood score, resulting in discounts up to 25% on flood insurance premiums for many policy holders. We have also upgraded key components of Austin’s Flood Early Warning System, improving the city’s ability to monitor and respond to flood conditions in real time. More recently, we have begun a pilot program to help homeowners in flood-prone areas obtain or maintain flood insurance.  

"Our department’s mission to protect lives, property and the environment by reducing the impacts of flooding remains central to keeping Austinites safe,” said Jorge Morales, Director of the Watershed Protection Department. “We encourage people to find out whether they live or work in an area prone to flooding and use the resources at ATXFloodSafety.com to be prepared before, during, and after a flood.” 

About Watershed Protection Department 

The City of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department protects lives, property, and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. Visit AustinTexas.gov/Watershed to learn more. 

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