Migrants Crossing Border as Title 42 Lifts Face Dangerous Rainfall in Texas

An incoming storm with severe flooding potential is expected to hit southern and western Texas as Title 42 expires Thursday.

Border crossings are expected to see a steep uptick with the end of the policy, which allowed the U.S. to turn away migrants at the border under the belief that they would exacerbate the COVID-19 pandemic. The order was installed under President Donald Trump in 2020, and Newsweek reported that since the measure was implemented, an estimated 2.7 million migrants have been turned away.

Thousands of migrants are waiting to attempt legal entry once the order expires, and President Joe Biden approved sending 1,500 more active-duty troops to assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers. The situation is expected to grow more complex and the migrants' journey could be hindered when an incoming storm system brings rain and a risk for flash floods this weekend.

AccuWeather predicts that the greatest risk for flash floods will be near the Rio Grande River and in major ports of entry like Eagle Pass and Laredo. The storm is expected to unleash heavy rain from Friday to Sunday, with the heaviest rain likely falling near San Antonio. Up to a foot of rain is expected in the San Antonio area, with a large swath of southwestern Texas to receive 4 to 8 inches. Much of the rest of central Texas will receive 1 to 4 inches.

Too much rain falling too quickly in an area that has been parched heightens the risk of flash floods, which could turn deadly for migrants crossing the border if proper resources aren't in place.

AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter warned border patrol officials that severe flooding occurring near the border could cause a "serious humanitarian situation."

"You've got an intersection of people vulnerable to flash flooding, especially in places where they're not as familiar with low-lying areas and how quickly water can flood various spots," Porter told Newsweek. "Public safety officials should be alerted to the threat for flash flooding and have the specialized resources needed for high-water rescues available should they be required."

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor Map, much of southwest Texas is classified as suffering from moderate to severe drought, with some areas suffering from extreme drought. After a period of drought, too much rain too quickly can easily lead to floods.

Porter urged public safety officials to prepare with specialized resources, such as equipment needed for rescues, to aid those who might be impacted by flash floods, which he called a serious threat to life and safety.