Drought dangers: From wildfires to flash floods

Drought dangers: From wildfires to flash floods

Published on August 27, 2026

With our region's current drought and wildfire conditions, property owners need to be aware of the increased risk for flash flooding.

After a drought, dry ground doesn't always absorb water as quickly as you might think. It can flood after a drought because prolonged dry conditions bake and compact the soil, making it hard and sometimes water-repellent.

When heavy rain finally falls, the parched ground cannot absorb the water fast enough, forcing the rainfall to rush off the surface as dangerous stormwater runoff.

Why dry soil causes floods

• Hard ground: Heated and sunbaked dirt loses its absorbent structure and pores, acting more like concrete than a sponge.

• Water repellency: Extreme dryness creates a waxy layer on top of the soil that pushes water away instead of soaking it in.

• Dead vegetation: Drought kills grass and roots that normally trap water and help guide it safely into the ground

• Sudden storms: Droughts often break with intense, fast thunderstorms that dump too much water on the land before the soil has time to adjust

Wildfires, burn scars and flash flooding

The wildfires still burning at this time will have some lasting effects on the landscape, both in the immediate area and locations that may be miles away.

Locations downhill and downstream from burned areas are very susceptible to flash flooding and debris flows, especially near steep terrain. Rainfall that

would normally be absorbed will run off extremely quickly after a wildfire, as burned soil can be as water-repellant as pavement. As a result, much less rainfall is required to produce a flash flood.

A good rule of thumb is: "If you can look uphill from where you are and see a burnt-out area, you are at risk."

Find more information on the Mission of the Stormwater Program to "Protect People & Property from Harmful Stormwater Runoff."

Follow these safety rules during flash flooding

• Be on the lookout for flashing signs or barricades warning of high water. Never drive around or move barriers blocking the high water.

• Leave areas subject to flooding. If flooding begins, move to higher ground.

• Avoid areas already flooded. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.

• Road may be washed out under flood water. Never drive through flooded roadways.

• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and channels, particularly during threatening conditions.

• Be aware that many City parks serve as drainage areas to reduce flooding in the neighboring streets and properties. At the first sign of rain, leave the

park for higher ground.

• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

• The City has installed high-water warning flashers at some of the most dangerous road-flooding areas. Check the real-time status of high-water warning flasher locations.

• Sign up for alerts for flooding with Fort Worth's Emergency Alert System texts to your phone: ReadyFW.

Be aware. Be prepared. Be informed. Understand your flood risks.

• Know your property's flood risk and don't wait for a rainy day to get flood insurance: Enter your address in the Flood Risk Viewer tool to find out your property's flood risk.

• If you have questions or concerns about drainage issues:

• Use the MyFW app to report flooding or clogged storm drain inlets.

• Contact the City Call Center at 817-392-1234.

• Email.

• Report online.

View the effects of dry conditions followed by rain

Watch Dr. Rob Thompson from Reading's Department of Meteorology demonstrate this and see why heavy rainfall following dry conditions can increase the risk of flash flooding.

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• Community Safety