SAN ANTONIO — Severe flooding across the city has turned deadly and forced the cancellation of major Fiesta San Antonio events, including the Texas Cavaliers River Parade and Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square. Market Square activities later resumed at noon on Tuesday.
The San Antonio Fire Department responded to 24 high-water calls following heavy rainfall on Monday. Most involved stalled vehicles, but only one required a rescue, when two people were pulled from a submerged car. One fatality was reported when an unhoused person was found stranded in a tree in fast-moving floodwaters. No other injuries have been confirmed.
Organizers said the Texas Cavaliers River Parade cannot be rescheduled due to logistical challenges, including the removal of about 19,000 chairs along the River Walk and the use of marina space needed for 57 decorated barges.
Despite the cancellations, rain chances have decreased for upcoming major Fiesta events, including the Battle of Flowers Parade and Fiesta Flambeau Parade later in the week.
Heavy rainfall across Bexar, Comal, and Guadalupe counties brought 3 to 6 inches of rain in some areas, with higher isolated totals. San Antonio International Airport recorded 4.42 inches on Monday—near a daily record—and April is now ranked as the third wettest on record.
Year-to-date rainfall has climbed above average, and the Edwards Aquifer has risen significantly due to the influx of water.
Flooding led to widespread road closures, particularly in low-lying areas, creek crossings, and construction zones. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning Monday evening before downgrading it to a flood advisory as rain began to ease.
Officials continue to urge residents not to drive through flooded roads, noting that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.
Rain is expected to taper off, though isolated showers may continue midweek. Temperatures are forecast to rise into the 80s by Wednesday and upper 80s by Friday.
Several additional Fiesta events scheduled for Tuesday were also canceled or postponed due to weather conditions.