Rainy May means FM 71 bridge floods

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  • Moving water at the FM 71 bridge on the Hopkins County side on May 26
    Moving water at the FM 71 bridge on the Hopkins County side on May 26
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Emblem residents wonder if Flynn, Slaton will best help bridge efforts

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Hopkins County is tracking 9.3 inches more in precipitation in 2020 than it was in 2019 according to the National Weather Service, and the Hopkins/Delta bridge over the South Sulphur River at Farm Road 71 seems to be feeling the effects.

According to observational data, the bridge was closed 15.5 days in January, 23 days in February, 23 days in March, two days in April and four days in May, including after this weekend’s most recent rain storms. 

On Memorial Day, the NWS activated a hazardous weather outlook for the South Sulphur River on both Delta and Hopkins County sides. This included flooding of farm and ranch lands, swift moving water and possible flash flood conditions, with a flood stage ranging from 16.0 to 18.0 feet, according to the NWS. 

After a series of Monday, May 25 rains, flooding occurred in areas surrounding the South Sulphur River near the Hunt County line, in the Emblem community along CR 2653, and near the Delta County line.

In early May, FM 71 sometimes appeared without barriers, although it did still have moving water on the road, according to 911 call logs. 

Signs have now been installed which state, “Watch for mud on road,” according to observational data. 

Remember, the only governmental official that has made the effort to help us is Rep. Dan Flynn [R-Canton],” said local activist Marna Martinez. “If he isn't re-elected you can forget any government help because TxDOT doesn't believe it's worthwhile, dollar wise.” 

According to Emblem resident Barry Walker, his best bet is on Flynn challenger Slaton to remedy the situation. Slaton met with local stakeholders in March, he and Walker said. 

"It's [flooding] only been going on 20 years, and what you're seeing now is nothing," Walker said. "If the power lines go down, everyone on this side [Hopkins County] is going to lose power. Then we'll be in real trouble." 

"Tell me in the past 20 years what Dan Flynn has done about it," Walker posed. "What piece of legislation has he introduced, besides calling meetings? Not that meetings aren't good, but we need change." 

Although Martinez confirms that she met with Slaton, she still believes Flynn "knows all the issues." 

However, some believe that no politicians will be able to help the situation. 

“Basically nothing’s changed,” said citizen Kenny Foster. “The river floods, and they clean the mud off the road. Then repeat the cycle after the next flood.”

The NWS predicts rain and thunderstorms for the remainder of the week until May 29, with severe hail, damaging winds and brief heavy rains possible.