Flash Flood Watch Issued for Austin Area This Week
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flood watch for Central Texas, including Travis, Hays, and Williamson counties, from 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 30, to 7 p.m. Friday, October 2, 2026. A cold front moving through the region is expected to bring heavy rainfall, with totals ranging from 2-4 inches and isolated areas potentially receiving up to 8 inches. The NWS warns of life-threatening flash flooding risks, particularly in rivers, streams, low-water crossings, and urban areas. This weather event coincides with the first day of the Austin City Limits Music Festival, prompting organizers to monitor conditions closely. The cold front is also pulling moisture from the remnants of Hurricane Polo, creating a highly saturated atmosphere conducive to heavy rain. Scattered storms may precede the main rainfall event, with the heaviest precipitation expected Thursday into Friday.