Flood Risk
Flooding Along the Rio Grande in Webb County
The Rio Grande can rise quickly in Laredo and cause flooding — check FEMA flood maps before buying property near the river.
Laredo sits on the Rio Grande. The river can flood even when local weather is clear. Heavy rains upstream can cause the river to rise fast. The National Weather Service tracks the river level at the Laredo gauge. At the downtown gauge, flood stage begins at 8 feet — once the river reaches that level, low-lying areas near the river can be affected.
If you are buying or renting near the river, check the property on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center. It will show whether the land is in a Special Flood Hazard Area. Homes in those areas may need flood insurance. The Webb County FEMA page has local rules on floodplains. Talk to the Webb County floodplain administrator before you build or add any structure in a flood zone.
Source to confirm: NOAA – Rio Grande at Laredo Gauge