Baghdad: The search for flood victims in Texas has been temporarily halted as local authorities brace for another wave of severe weather. The suspension follows recent catastrophic flooding in central Texas, where search and rescue operations had been ongoing since the disaster struck earlier this month.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ingram Fire Department has issued an immediate evacuation order for areas along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County. This precautionary measure comes amid warnings of a significant rise in water levels, which could result in further flash floods. The department’s directive reflects concerns over the potential danger posed by continued rainfall in the region.

The recent flooding, which began on July 4, has claimed 129 lives and left over 170 individuals unaccounted for. This marks the first halt in search efforts since the disaster began. The National Weather Service has cautioned that the Guadalupe River could rise to approximately 15 feet by this evening, surpassing the flood level by more than five feet. This increase is significant enough to submerge the Interstate 39 bridge near Hunt, posing a substantial risk to infrastructure and public safety.

The National Weather Service has also warned that numerous minor roads and bridges are currently underwater, creating serious safety hazards. Local officials continue to emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and avoiding travel in areas affected by the flooding, as additional rainfall is anticipated in the coming hours.