Flash flood warning issued for San Antonio until 6 a.m. Saturday

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning early Saturday for much of Bexar County and the San Antonio metro area after a nearly stationary thunderstorm dumped intense rain overnight.

The warning remains in effect until 6 a.m. Saturday.

An emergency alert was sent to cell phones in the warned area, with officials saying the situation is dangerous and life-threatening. The alert said people should not travel unless they are fleeing flooding or under an evacuation order.

The storm was observed over Bexar County around 2:15 a.m. and was producing rainfall rates of 2 to 5 inches per hour, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters said heavy rain was expected to taper after about 3 a.m., with light to moderate rain possibly continuing through 5 a.m.

Areas at risk

The warning covers downtown San Antonio and nearby communities including Alamo Heights, Castle Hills, Leon Valley, Hollywood Park, Shavano Park, Timberwood Park, Scenic Oaks, Helotes, Castroville and the area near Lackland Air Force Base.

Flooding threats include creeks and streams, urban drainage areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

What officials are warning people to do

Residents are being urged to avoid driving through water-covered roads and to monitor for updates in case the warning is extended or additional alerts are issued.

The immediate concern is rapid flooding in low-lying and urban areas, where water can rise quickly during intense rain. Local road users, emergency managers and residents across the metro area remain under the active warning until it expires or is updated.