Bridge Collapse Leaves 500 Isolated as Community Rallies to Deliver Aid

In the wake of the devastating floods that struck northwest Travis County on Saturday, a community in the Leander area finds itself cut off from the surrounding region, as the Big Sandy Bridge has been swept away from its foundation by the strong currents of Sandy Creek.

The creek, usually a shallow trickle, transformed into a powerful rush that violently battered the bridge, shifting it by four to five feet and rendering it impassable for vehicles. For the roughly 500 residents on the opposite side, this bridge was their only direct route to town.

Seven individuals have been confirmed dead, with at least 10 others still missing in the area, as devastation has affected homes, roads, and vehicles. For individuals cut off beyond the damaged bridge, their fate now hinges on a significant effort from volunteers.

Local residents have formed organized groups, moving wheelbarrows filled with essential supplies, such as water, food, and medicine, along the difficult path. A significant number of homes are still without electricity, running water, and internet access.

Yesenia Ramirez, a resident, shared that her family had their utilities restored on Monday; however, they are still facing restrictions in their mobility. Her husband, unable to go to work, is among many facing financial challenges due to the continued isolation.

Round Mountain Baptist Church has stepped up as a vital support center, transforming into an ad hoc aid hub. H-E-B is offering meals, medical teams are tending to injuries, and a mobile bank is helping those who have misplaced their financial documents. Even after the departure of his volunteer, Justin Hendrix, who specializes in home and business tools, continues to show an unshakable dedication to assisting at the church daily.

County officials project that the cleanup efforts could reach an astonishing $4 million. This figure encompasses the removal of vehicles, concrete debris, and deceased livestock caught in the vegetation along Sandy Creek.

The Travis County Commissioners Court has approved the allocation of emergency reserve funds to enhance recovery initiatives.

Volunteer coordinator Katherine Waggoner announced that she had to turn away individuals due to the overwhelming level of interest. "She reflected on the unprecedented magnitude of the flood and the startling speed at which it unfolded, noting the extraordinary reaction from the community."

Amber Taylor, a resident, recounted a chilling experience in which her best friend's trailer was swept away by the swift currents just moments after her family had escaped, leaving behind only scattered remnants along the creek bed.

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