ROMA, Texas (AP) - Heavy rain today flooded more than 400 homes
in Starr County and emergency officials closed U.S. 83.
Forecasters say more than 13 inches of rain fell in some parts
of the county, forcing emergency officials to use boats to rescue
dozens of people from flooded homes.
The Department of Public Safety recommended U.S. 83 be closed
near Rosita, about midway between Roma and Rio Grande City, because
a creek went above the guardrails.
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera says not even emergency vehicles
were permitted to pass.
The impact of so much rain was compounded because the ground was
still saturated from Hurricane Dolly, which hit the region on July
23rd.
Two shelters are open.
A flash flood watch is in effect for parts of Brooks, Cameron,
Willacy, Hidalgo, Cameron, Jim Hogg, Kenedy, Starr and Zapata
counties through tomorrow.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)