NextGen Flood Warning System
In August 2025, the San Antonio River Authority, City of San Antonio, and Bexar County announced the NextGen Flood Warning System.
The NextGen system is a major investment in public safety, using advanced technology, flood infrastructure upgrades, and public awareness to save lives during future storms.
A Life-saving Alert System
San Antonio has a long history of costly floods, both in terms of lives lost and property damage.
While floods are inevitable, flood deaths are largely preventable through education, preparation, and timely awareness of when and where floods are happening.
In order to keep the public informed as fast as possible, flood detection technology needs to be updated throughout the region to better predict dangerous flood conditions.
How the NextGen System Works
New Technology Provides Faster, More Accurate Warnings
The first step in rolling out the NextGen system is to update low water crossing sensors and rain and stream gauges throughout the county, and install new sensors where necessary.
Data from these sensors is transmitted in real time to the River Authority, city and county officials, first responders, and to the public through SARiverFlood.org.
The low water crossing data is also being integrated with Google Maps and Waze, so users can see updates about dangerous conditions and road closures while they navigate.
Additional Public Safety Upgrades
Along with advanced sensors and gauges, improved street lighting will be installed in flood-prone areas to make it easier for drivers to see dangerous road conditions when it’s dark outside—when most flood deaths occur.
At some low water crossings, road closure barricades with flashing lights, like those seen at railroad crossings, will be installed to prevent drivers from attempting to cross when water reaches certain levels.