Early Monday morning, a bout of heavy rain left the far‑east side of El Paso with dangerous, water‑filled roadways. Montana Avenue, a key east‑west corridor, became a shallow river as water pooled from Desert Storm Road to Hueco Tanks Road.
Conditions on the Ground
Motorists reported dark, low‑visibility conditions that made it difficult to see the depth of the water. Several drivers attempted to speed through the flooded sections, only to have their vehicles stall or become stuck amid floating debris, including rocks, car parts and branches.
Response by Public Agencies
TxDOT crews arrived on the scene around 7 a.m. to begin debris removal and assess the extent of the flooding. Working in coordination with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, they focused on clearing the roadway of hazardous material and restoring drainage.
By 10:50 a.m., the sheriff’s office announced that most of the affected stretch had been cleared, though TxDOT continued to monitor the area and address any remaining pockets of water or debris.
Safety Tips for Drivers
Officials reminded residents to exercise caution when traveling in rain‑slicked conditions. If you encounter standing water, it is safest to slow down, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking. Should your vehicle become stuck, stay inside, call 911, and wait for assistance rather than attempting to push the car through the water.
Looking Ahead
The recent flash flooding underscores the importance of maintaining clear drainage systems and prompt road‑maintenance responses. TxDOT has indicated that crews will continue to inspect the affected corridors throughout the day and will address any lingering issues before the next forecasted rain event.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and the TxDOT website for updates on road conditions and any future closures.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
