BRENHAM, Texas — The body of a 10-year-old girl who was swept away by fast-rising floodwaters in Brenham has been recovered, city officials announced Tuesday. The tragic discovery comes amid widespread storm activity threatening millions across the South and Northeast.
Attempted Rescue Unsuccessful as Creek Waters Rose Quickly
On Wednesday afternoon, two sisters were walking home from school when a nearby creek rapidly overflowed. Dhava Woods, the younger of the two, was pulled into the water by the current. A male neighbor witnessed the incident and jumped in to save her, reportedly making contact but unable to maintain his grip due to the force of the water.
A Brenham police officer also saw the child further downstream and attempted a rescue, but was thwarted by the swift-moving current, according to local officials.
Community in Mourning After Body Recovered
The search came to a sorrowful conclusion when authorities recovered Dhava Woods’ body at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family,” the girl’s school district said in a statement. “We ask our community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Brenham Fire Department echoed those sentiments on Monday, asking the public for continued support:
“With more severe weather anticipated, we ask the community to keep everyone involved in your thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.”
Widespread Storms Threaten Millions Across the South
Dhava’s death comes as a powerful storm system brings extreme weather conditions to millions. Nearly 100 storm reports were filed across 10 states overnight Monday, including a confirmed tornado in Jamesville, North Carolina.
Severe storms and flash flooding continue to pose a major threat across the south-central U.S., with over 24 million people under flood watches across nine states as of Tuesday.
Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi Brace for More Rainfall
A tornado watch has been issued for central, eastern, and southeastern Texas through 4 p.m. Tuesday. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin remain under a slight risk for severe weather, while parts of east Texas are under an enhanced risk. These areas could see damaging winds, large hail, and strong tornadoes.
Flash flood threats are expected to expand eastward into Wednesday, stretching from southeastern Colorado to Alabama. The heaviest rain is forecast over the lower Mississippi River region, with 3 to 6 inches expected and up to 12 inches possible in localized areas of southern Louisiana and southeastern Mississippi.
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Northeastern States Also at Risk
Meanwhile, parts of eastern Pennsylvania, northwest New Jersey, and southern New York are also facing slight risks of severe weather on Tuesday, with damaging winds and hail possible.
As rainfall continues to batter much of the South and Northeast, communities are on high alert, especially in areas still recovering from previous river flooding in the past few weeks.
