Collin County under a flash flood warning Wednesday afternoon triggered by thunderstorms

The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.

A flash flood warning was released by the NWS Fort Worth TX on Wednesday at 10:49 a.m. in effect until 1 p.m. for Collin County.

"At 10:49 a.m., Doppler radar reported thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. The public also reported flooding due on SH 78 on northeast Collin County. In addition, between 1-2 inches of rain has fallen in southern Collin County with additional heavy rain expected to continue for the next few hours. Flash flooding is ongoing or imminent," according to the NWS. "Flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas. Ponding on roadways is imminent or occurring."

Locations impacted by the warning include Dallas, Plano, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Allen, Wylie, Sachse, Murphy, Prosper, Royse City, Anna, Fairview, Princeton, Celina, Lucas, Melissa, Parker, Farmersville and Van Alstyne.

The NWS adds, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Stay away or be swept away. River banks and culverts can become unstable and unsafe."

This warning is in effect until 1 p.m.

Weather Watches and Warnings

Live, real-time data from the National Weather Service showing official weather watches, warnings, and advisories. Tap or click a highlighted area for details.

Sources: NOAA, National Weather Service, NOAA GeoPlatform, and Esri.

Ways to stay safe during a flood according to the NWS

If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, get out. Stay out of water that may have electricity in it. Don't walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.

During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is imperative to avoid driving through any water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the NWS, most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of rushing water.

What steps to follow when driving in the rain?

• Turn on headlights - Even in daylight, using headlights can help improve visibility and let other drivers know where you are.
• On the road - Drive in the middle lanes and stay on high ground. Rainwater tends to stockpile on the edges of roads.
• Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control
• Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
• Steer clear of flooded areas - When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is primarily caused by three factors:

1. Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
2. Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.

In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:

• Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots Fort Worth

This story was originally published May 27, 2026 at 10:53 AM.