News · Insurance & risk
West Texas Flood Threat: What Truckers Should Do This Week
Storms and flash flooding are expected in Far West Texas, the South Plains and the Panhandle. See the state's warning and how to plan your loads.
Questions about how this affects your trucks? Talk to a licensed agent who ran his own authority.
What happened
Governor Greg Abbott activated state emergency help on Monday, Sept. 21. A West Texas flood threat is building. Heavy rain and flooding are possible in parts of West Texas and the Texas Panhandle.
The National Weather Service expects thunderstorms in Far West Texas, the South Plains and the Panhandle. They start Monday. They get stronger by the middle of the week. The main dangers are too much rain and flash flooding. A flash flood is water that rises fast, with little warning.
The state is sending help before the water rises. That includes swiftwater rescue boat teams from Texas A&M Task Force 1. It also includes Highway Patrol troopers and helicopters. Game wardens with rescue boats are ready too. TxDOT crews are watching road conditions.
What it means for owner-operators
Water on a road can be deeper and faster than it looks. The governor's message is simple: do not drive through flooded roads. The state calls it "Turn Around, Don't Drown."
For a trucker, one bad call can hurt people. It can also cost you a truck and a load. Even roads that stay open can slow you down. A slow day can make you late for a delivery.
Bad weather is also a business risk. A late load, a tow and water damage can add up fast. The time to plan for that is before you roll, not after.
If you haul through Far West Texas, the South Plains or the Panhandle this week, treat the forecast like part of your trip plan. We did not see specific highways named in the announcement. So check your own route each day.
What to do next
Use this short checklist:
- Check DriveTexas.org for road conditions before you leave. Check it again during the trip.
- If you see water on the road, turn around. Find another way.
- Call your broker or dispatcher early if weather will make you late. Ask for any change in writing.
- Take photos and notes if weather damages your truck or cargo. Keep them for a claim.
- Call your insurance agent and ask what your policy covers when weather hurts your truck or your load. Our guide on truck insurance coverage explained can help you ask the right questions.
Have a question about your coverage? Call TCZ Insurance Agency at 956-526-6727.
Original report
Written by TCZ Insurance Agency in our own words. Read the original for the full story.