KIlgore Roadways Clearing Up, Police Continue to Monitor

KILGORE — Kilgore Police said as of 2:00 Thursday morning, most roadways are clear of water, with the exception of Houston Street near Meadowbrook Park. It remains closed due to flooding. Officials said everyone still needs to exercise caution when driving and obey all warning signs and barricades.

Mayor Ronnie Spradlin declared a State of Emergency in Kilgore at about 11:30 a.m. Wednesday morning following severe weather and flooding in the area – with more on the way. The Kilgore News Herald reports about eight inches of rain had fallen from Monday night until late Wednesday morning, and the rapidly rising water prompted officials to prepare for a mandatory evacuation from threatened areas Wednesday afternoon. According to the declaration issued by Kilgore City Hall, “This major event has caused widespread flooding, rescue situations, and the displacement of homeowners.” The declaration added, “The City is requiring mandatory evacuations of homeowners and businesses that have experienced flooding and requesting evacuations of homes that are near the flooded area.”