Flood Watch: Arlington Prepares for Heavy Rain, Potential Flooding

Published on September 29, 2026

Photo Caption: The City of Arlington Public Works’ Stormwater Maintenance Division clears brush and debris from a culvert near Fitzgerald Elementary School in Southeast Arlington on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026. Inspecting and clearing culverts in flood-prone areas was among preparations completed ahead of heavy rains expected this week from the remnants of Hurricane Polo.

By the Office of Communication

With heavy rain expected to arrive in North Texas as soon as Wednesday evening, City of Arlington Public Works crews are taking proactive steps to protect neighborhoods, public buildings, and drivers from potential flooding.

According to the National Weather Service, the remnants of Hurricane Polo are expected to bring average rainfall amounts of 2 to 5 inches across North and Central Texas, with isolated totals up to 8 inches possible. A Flood Watch is in effect for Tarrant County and surrounding areas from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon.

Ahead of the storm system, Public Works crews are focusing on key flood mitigation efforts, including:

• Clearing Infrastructure: Inspecting and removing debris from culverts, inlets, and storm drains in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
• Staging Emergency Equipment: Positioning high-water barricades on standby at known low-water crossings throughout the city.
• Boosting Supplies: Increasing inventory of sandbags if needed.

Driver and Resident Safety

Arlington residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates closely and exercise caution during morning and evening commutes.

• Turn Around, Don't Drown: Never drive through flooded roadways or around street barricades. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult, and 12 inches can sweep away a vehicle. Floodwater can also conceal debris, hidden objects and damaged or washed-out pavement.
• If conditions become too difficult to drive safely, take the nearest exit when safe to do so and find a safe place to wait away from traffic. Avoid stopping on the highway shoulder when a safer location is accessible, where passing traffic can place a stationary vehicle at risk.
• Increase following distance to allow more time to react and stop. Stopping distance depends on speed, road conditions, tire condition and other factors.
• Reduce speed, turn on headlights and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to reduce the risk of losing traction or hydroplaning.
• Avoid driving with hazard lights flashing, as they can confuse other motorists and make turn signals difficult to distinguish.
• Report Flooding and Blocked Drains: Residents can report flooding and stormwater concerns/violations by calling the Public Works Department at 817-459-6550 or the Action Center at 817-459-6777. Types of concerns to report include home flooding, street ponding and flooding, clogged or slow drain inlets and debris obstructing the flow of channels and creeks. Call 911 to report any emergency that could result in imminent danger to the health and safety of persons or property.
• Secure Property: Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts around homes to allow proper drainage.

For severe weather updates, emergency preparedness guides, and real-time news, visit www.arlingtontx.gov/severeweather.