Midland Fire Department Responds to 28 Water Rescue Calls Amid Heavy Rain

By Josiah Carrasco

MIDLAND, TEXAS — The Midland Fire Department was pressed into action Friday evening, responding to 28 water rescue calls within a span of just six hours, as torrential rains overwhelmed the area. From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on August 30, 2024, firefighters and emergency personnel were deployed across Midland, pulling stranded drivers from vehicles trapped in floodwaters.

The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that the region saw 1.6 inches of rain between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., a deluge that quickly turned local streets into dangerous waterways. The swift accumulation of water overwhelmed drainage systems, creating hazardous conditions for motorists.

The NWS has repeatedly emphasized the dangers of driving through flooded areas, a warning echoed in its "Turn Around Don't Drown" campaign. According to the NWS, over half of all flood-related drownings occur when vehicles are driven into floodwaters. The force of the water can easily sweep cars off the road, with just 12 inches of rushing water being sufficient to carry away most vehicles, and 2 feet enough to move larger SUVs and trucks.

"People often underestimate the power of water," the NWS states, underscoring that many flood-related deaths could be prevented if drivers adhered to safety advisories and avoided attempting to navigate flooded roads.

The Midland Fire Department's quick response likely saved lives, but the near-tragic incidents underscore the continued need for public awareness around the dangers of flooding. With the climate crisis making extreme weather events more frequent, residents are urged to exercise caution and heed weather warnings.

This significant rainfall event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of weather patterns in West Texas, and the importance of being prepared for sudden changes.

Based on a report by the Midland Fire Department.