Flash Floods and Low Water Crossings Are a Real Risk in Brown County

Pecan Bayou runs through the Brownwood area and can rise fast after heavy rain. NOAA monitors the bayou at a gauge in Brownwood. During past flood events, roads including US 67/84 at the Pecan Bayou and several FM roads have been closed. Low water crossings on rural county roads are especially common in Brown County and can become dangerous with little warning.

Texas TxDOT warns that as little as six inches of moving water can cause a vehicle to lose control. Driving around a barricade at a flooded crossing carries a fine of up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail. Tampering with or removing a warning barrier can result in a fine up to $1,000 and up to two years in jail.

If you are buying or renting property in Brown County, check its flood zone status at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Enter your address at msc.fema.gov to see whether your property falls in a Special Flood Hazard Area. Updated flood maps covering Brownwood, Bangs, Blanket, Early, and unincorporated Brown County became effective in 2018.