BELL COUNTY, Texas — The Bell County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to stay clear of local creeks and rivers following recent flooding caused by rainfall in surrounding areas.

In a public safety announcement posted to social media, the agency emphasized the life-threatening dangers of floodwaters, urging the community to heed the warning: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

“Our hearts are broken for all those we have lost,” the post read. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the lost, those that are missing, and our brothers and sisters that are tirelessly searching.”

Officials stressed that even if rain doesn’t fall directly in Bell County, upstream precipitation can cause flash flooding downstream. Residents are advised not to attempt driving or walking through flooded areas and to remain vigilant as water levels fluctuate.

Emergency personnel continue recovery efforts throughout the region.

Source: Bell County Sheriff’s Office