Spring in Central Texas brings unpredictable weather, and with it, the risk of severe flooding. The Brazos River, Leon River, and their tributaries can swell rapidly after heavy rains, putting homes in Waco, Temple, Killeen, and surrounding communities at risk.
In April 2024, a 48-hour rainfall event delivered over 6 inches to McLennan County, overwhelming storm drains in Woodway and parts of Hewitt. Homes that weren't prepared saw water intrusion within hours. Homes that were prepared saw minor wet-carpet issues at worst.
Before storm season: Inspect your home's foundation for cracks, ensure gutters and downspouts are clear, and consider installing a sump pump if your home has a basement or crawl space. Know your flood zone status by checking FEMA flood maps for Bell and McLennan Counties. Photograph the interior and exterior of your home every spring — it's the single most important thing you can do for a future claim.
Standard homeowner's insurance does NOT cover flood damage from rising surface water. That requires a separate National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy. Wind-driven rain through a damaged roof is usually covered; rising creek water is not. Know the difference before you need to know the difference.
During the storm: Stay informed through local weather alerts for Waco, Temple, and Killeen. Move valuables and electronics off the floor. Unplug non-essential electronics. Do NOT drive through flooded roads — Turn Around Don't Drown isn't a slogan, it's the #1 cause of flood-related deaths in Texas.
If water enters your home: Shut off electricity at the main breaker if water is near outlets or panels. Do not walk through moving water. If it's safe, move upstairs or to higher ground. Call 911 if you're trapped.
After the storm passes: Document everything with photos and video before touching anything. Call your insurance carrier. Then call a restoration company — ideally before floodwater fully recedes, because extraction timing is critical.
Standing floodwater is classified as Category 3 (black water) under IICRC S500 because it's contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and debris from outdoor sources. Professional remediation is essential — not optional. DIY drying a Cat 3 flood creates a biohazard.
At Moisture Pro, our IICRC-certified crews respond within 60 minutes throughout Bell, McLennan, Coryell, and Williamson counties. Truck-mounted extraction, full Category 3 PPE, and insurance-direct documentation — that's what gets you from disaster to recovered.
The first 48 hours determine everything. Water spreads fast. Mold starts growing in 24–48 hours. Every hour of delay adds to the cost. Call (254) 248-7776 the moment you discover water intrusion, day or night.