Latest News in Austin, TX

Your trusted source for local Austin, TX news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.

Texas state leaders didn't prioritize flood management

Texas leaders prioritize spending on border security and property tax cuts over flood management, despite the state leading the nation in flood deaths. Local officials struggle with inadequate funding for warning systems, relying on less effective methods for alerting residents. Recent floods claimed nearly 90 lives, highlighting the urgent need for improved flood infrastructure.

Torrential Flooding in Central Texas Leaves 11 Dead, Multiple Missing

Torrential rainfall in Central Texas has led to catastrophic flash floods, claiming at least 11 lives and leaving several missing. Emergency crews are conducting rescue operations, focusing on areas in Travis, Williamson, and Burnet counties, while a flood watch remains in effect until Sunday evening.

How to help after the Central Texas floods

Severe flash floods in Central Texas have killed dozens, including at least 28 children, and have devastated communities across several counties. Various organizations are mobilizing to provide disaster relief and support for affected families, including shelters, food assistance, and search and rescue operations.

Catastrophic Texas Floods Leave 13 Dead, 20 Children Missing as Guadalupe River Rises Sharply

Central Texas flooding on July 4 left at least 13 dead and more than 20 children missing as the Guadalupe River surged over 20 feet in 90 minutes. Evacuations are underway at Camp Mystic, where Texas Game Wardens and other agencies are assisting in rescue efforts. Officials continue searching for the unaccounted campers, emphasizing that their status does not imply they are lost.

Texas Democrats circle Senate race

Texas Democrats aim to break a 30-year drought in statewide elections as Republicans face internal strife ahead of a U.S. Senate primary. Former U.S. Rep. Beto O'Rourke is considering a run, while U.S. Rep. Colin Allred has officially entered the race, joining a growing Democratic field. A recent poll indicates a decline in approval for President Trump, fueling Democratic optimism.

Free tunes in the BBQ aisle

H-E-B launched a free concert series called "True Texas Tunes," starting at its Lake Austin location today. The series, which began last month in partnership with a local nonprofit, features performances every Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. due to high demand from previous shows.

Saharan Dust Creates Stunning Sunsets and Health Risks in Central Texas

A thick plume of Saharan dust has settled over Central Texas, creating stunning sunsets while posing health risks to vulnerable individuals. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warns that fine dust particles can trigger respiratory issues, particularly for those with asthma and allergies. The dust cloud is expected to dissipate by the end of the week.

Austin food trucks among nation's best

Nine food trucks from Austin ranked among the top 100 in the U.S., according to Yelp's latest tally. This recognition highlights the city's culinary excellence, outpacing other cities like Portland and Los Angeles. Yelp based its rankings on review volume and ratings, with health scores as a qualification criterion.

Women nearing menopause drive GLP-1 boom

Women's prescriptions for GLP-1 drugs in Texas surged from 0.6% in 2020 to 4.34% in 2024, outpacing men's use, which rose from 0.66% to 3.39%. This trend underscores a growing focus on weight loss among women, particularly those approaching menopause.

Food Bank Scrambles After Abbott Nixes Summer EBT Aid for Millions of Texas Children

Governor Greg Abbott rejected $60 million in federal funding for the summer EBT program, which would have provided assistance to 3.7 million low-income Texas children. The Central Texas Food Bank criticized the decision, warning it will increase demand for its services despite not facing a direct funding loss.

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