Torrential rains cause flash floods

FERRIS – If you received messages from the City of Ferris’ Nixle alerts in the last few days, you know there has been extreme flash flooding dangers just about every hour. Sunday night there was even a tornado warning alert that came through.

When residents in Ellis County woke up Monday morning, the various flooding had given way to a lot of wet.

In fact, the rain amount in neighboring Dallas County has made this month the second rainiest August in the history of Dallas, back when 10.33" was recorded in August 1915.

In Red Oak Monday afternoon, the Ovilla Road underpass was a lake as motorists had to pass on the shoulder. Parking lots were almost undriveable in some areas, and there were several streets closed not only in Red Oak, but all around the area.

Ferris Director Of Public Safety John DeLeon cautioned, “In light of the torrential rains the last few days, we would like encourage motorist to not travel unless absolutely necessary – and urge caution when they do.

“Extremely dry conditions caused the ground to be hard, which encourages water run-off.

“We are seeing lots of videos, and Wilmer officers are witnessing water rising quickly in ditches and on roadways as waves of heavy rain continue on and off.”

DeLeon said it is imperative that everyone practice caution when traveling in unfamiliar areas and remember the phrase, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”