San Antonio News Today: Heavy Rain Threatens South Texas, Early Voting Intensifies, New H-E-B Opens, and Local Businesses Face Construction Challenges
SAN ANTONIO, TX | San Antonio is facing a busy week of developments involving severe weather preparations, a major grocery store opening, public safety investigations, infrastructure construction, and growing political activity ahead of the November elections.
Meteorologists are warning that heavy rainfall could create flooding concerns across parts of South Central Texas as Halloween approaches. Meanwhile, a new H-E-B in Converse is drawing significant attention, businesses in the Olmos Park area are struggling with road closures, and Bexar County voters are making their voices heard during the final days of early voting.
Here's a look at the latest news affecting San Antonio and surrounding communities.
1. Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Possible Before Halloween
San Antonio residents should prepare for increasing rain chances Thursday and Friday as a weather system moves across South Central Texas.
According to the National Weather Service, scattered showers and thunderstorms could produce locally heavy rainfall, particularly across the Rio Grande Plains and southern Edwards Plateau.
Those areas face a Level 2 out of 4 excessive rainfall risk, raising concerns about localized flash flooding and rising water levels.
For San Antonio, forecasters are calling for a roughly 25% chance of rain Wednesday, increasing to approximately 70% Thursday afternoon. Friday brings another chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms, with temperatures reaching the upper 70s.
The possibility of severe weather, including tornadoes and damaging hail, remains low based on the latest reports.
Residents are encouraged to monitor changing conditions, exercise caution around low-water crossings, and avoid attempting to drive through flooded roadways.
The heaviest rainfall threat is expected to diminish by the weekend, potentially allowing Halloween activities to proceed under drier conditions.
Citations: MySA and KTSA, October 28, 2026.
MySA+1
2. New H-E-B Opens in Converse, Bringing More Than 400 Jobs to Growing Community
A major new H-E-B grocery store opened Wednesday morning near Interstate 10 and Loop 1604 East, marking another significant investment in the rapidly expanding East Bexar County area.
The 125,000-square-foot store attracted enthusiastic customers who began gathering hours before its official opening.
One shopper reportedly waited approximately 16 hours to become one of the first people inside.
The store offers expanded grocery departments, fresh food options, a full-service pharmacy, curbside pickup, home delivery, and a True Texas BBQ restaurant.
Additional amenities include a bakery, fresh tortillas, sushi, prepared meals, and dedicated meat and seafood departments.
H-E-B expects the new location to employ more than 400 workers, creating employment opportunities while increasing shopping convenience for nearby residents.
The opening also reflects continued residential and commercial growth around Converse, where new housing developments are increasing demand for grocery stores and neighborhood services.
The new location is at 10137 Interstate 10 East in Converse and operates daily from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m.
Citations: MySA, October 28, 2026.
MySA
3. San Antonio Businesses Struggle as Major Construction Disrupts Traffic
Local business owners near the intersection of East Hildebrand and McCullough avenues are expressing concern over the financial impact of a major infrastructure improvement project.
San Antonio Water System crews are replacing aging water infrastructure, requiring road closures and traffic restrictions around the historic Olmos Park area.
The work is expected to continue for approximately five months.
Volare Restaurant, a longtime San Antonio dining establishment, reports that reservations and walk-in traffic have declined sharply since construction began.
Owner Eder Muniz told MySA that the closures have made it difficult for customers to reach the restaurant during what would normally be one of its busiest seasons.
Nearby Pashina Pastry, which specializes in Ukrainian food and baked goods, is experiencing similar challenges.
The project is intended to modernize century-old infrastructure, but business owners say the immediate consequences include fewer customers, unexpected disruptions, and growing financial pressure.
Although the main intersection remains affected, alternative access is available through surrounding streets, including Howard Street, Shook Avenue, West Olmos Drive, and East Mulberry Avenue.
Local businesses are encouraging residents to continue supporting restaurants and shops in the area throughout construction.
The situation illustrates the challenge of balancing long-term infrastructure improvements with the short-term needs of neighborhood businesses.
Citation: MySA, October 28, 2026.
MySA
4. Bexar County Early Voting Sees Strong Turnout Ahead of November Elections
Political activity is intensifying across San Antonio as early voting enters its final days ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
Bexar County has more than 1.3 million registered voters, reflecting continued population growth and heightened interest in this year's political contests.
By Monday, October 26, approximately 284,169 ballots had already been cast, with Northwest Vista College reporting more than 10,900 votes.
Among the most closely watched statewide races is the contest for lieutenant governor between Republican incumbent Dan Patrick and Democratic challenger Vikki Goodwin.
The candidates are offering different approaches to property taxes, education, healthcare, affordability, and border security.
Patrick is campaigning on additional property tax reductions and continued support for existing state policies.
Goodwin argues that Texas needs greater investment in public education, healthcare, and long-term infrastructure.
Early voting concludes Friday, October 30. Bexar County has 58 early voting locations, most operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the final week.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.
Citations: MySA and News 4 San Antonio, October 26–27, 2026.
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5. San Antonio City Council Prepares to Debate $442 Million Bond Package and Data Center Regulations
Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is preparing for an important City Council discussion Thursday involving a proposed $442 million bond package and new regulations governing data center development.
The bond proposal could influence funding for neighborhood streets, sidewalks, parks, and other public infrastructure projects.
Jones has expressed opposition to using the bond money for infrastructure associated with Project Marvel, the proposed downtown sports and entertainment district.
Instead, the mayor argues that existing Project Finance Zone funding should support infrastructure related to the planned arena and associated projects.
The council is also examining how to regulate large data centers, which can require substantial electricity and water resources.
Proposals under consideration include greater transparency, noise restrictions, air quality monitoring, and limits on diesel backup generators.
Jones has indicated support for requiring individual City Council reviews of data center proposals rather than allowing them to proceed automatically under general development standards.
The council is expected to discuss the bond distribution and proposed data center rules Thursday, October 29.
The final list of projects for the proposed bond program is expected to be developed through additional public discussions ahead of a potential May 2027 election.
Citation: KSAT, October 27, 2026.
KSAT
6. Bexar County Drivers Face New Vehicle Emissions Testing Requirement Beginning November 1
A significant change is approaching for Bexar County drivers.
Beginning Sunday, November 1, gasoline-powered vehicles that are between two and 24 years old will generally need to pass an emissions inspection before owners can renew their registrations.
The new state requirement is intended to help monitor vehicle emissions and improve air quality.
According to the Bexar County Tax Assessor-Collector's Office, the emissions inspection will cost $18.50.
Some drivers whose vehicle registrations expire in October, November, or December may be able to renew before the new requirement takes effect.
Tax Assessor-Collector Albert Uresti said eligible motorists can complete early renewals by October 31 without the new emissions test.
The office also clarified that reports suggesting the requirement had been delayed were incorrect.
Residents should check their vehicle's eligibility, registration expiration date, and inspection requirements before renewing.
The change will affect many San Antonio drivers and adds another consideration to household transportation expenses.
Citation: News 4 San Antonio, October 27–28, 2026.
WOAI
7. San Antonio Police Investigate Southwest Side Road-Rage Shooting
San Antonio police are investigating a shooting believed to have resulted from a road-rage incident Tuesday afternoon.
According to the San Antonio Police Department, the incident occurred shortly after 5 p.m. in the 1300 block of Kyle Street, near Southwest Military Drive and South Zarzamora Street.
Investigators believe the confrontation began on a nearby street before continuing into a parking lot.
One man was transported to a hospital in critical condition.
Authorities have not yet released extensive information about the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing.
The incident highlights continuing concerns about roadway confrontations and public safety as law enforcement works to establish what happened.
Citation: KTSA, October 28, 2026.
KTSA
8. Students Return to Sotomayor High School Following Bomb Threat
Students and staff at Sonia Sotomayor High School in Northside Independent School District were evacuated Tuesday after authorities received a reported bomb threat.
The Bexar County Sheriff's Office responded to the campus, where students were relocated to a secure area while deputies and district police conducted a safety sweep.
Authorities reported identifying an individual believed to be responsible for the phoned-in threat.
Northside ISD confirmed that students and staff remained safe during the incident.
By approximately 2:15 p.m., officials had cleared the school and authorized students to return under staff supervision.
Afternoon transportation continued on its normal schedule.
The incident serves as another reminder of the importance of emergency communication, coordinated law enforcement response, and school safety preparedness.
Citation: MySA, October 27, 2026.
MySA
9. Six Flags Fiesta Texas Could Face Changes Following Nationwide Safety Review
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is among the amusement parks included in a company-wide safety review following a fatal roller coaster incident at Six Flags Over Georgia.
The company has announced that independent reviewers will examine safety procedures, maintenance requirements, inspection protocols, employee training, and operating practices across its properties.
Several roller coasters at other Six Flags parks are expected to receive additional seat belts.
The company confirmed that rides requiring immediate attention will be addressed without waiting for the entire review to conclude.
It remains unclear whether any rides at Fiesta Texas will require modifications.
Company representatives say the review is designed to identify opportunities to strengthen safety procedures and improve consistency across the park system.
For San Antonio visitors, the review could eventually lead to changes in ride operations, equipment, or inspection procedures.
Citation: MySA, October 28, 2026.
MySA
10. San Antonio Continues Día de los Muertos Celebrations With Free Community Events
San Antonio is continuing its celebration of Día de los Muertos with cultural events that honor loved ones and showcase the city's rich traditions.
Following last weekend's River Walk parade and downtown festivities, Historic Market Square is preparing for the Calaveras de Azucar Festival on Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1.
The free festival will feature traditional altars, live music, vendors, and cultural activities.
Residents and visitors can also experience a self-guided Día de los Muertos altar tour at Historic Market Square through November 6.
The displays are designed to celebrate memories, honor family members who have passed, and preserve an important cultural tradition.
The continued festivities provide an opportunity for families to participate in community celebrations while supporting downtown merchants and artists.
Citation: City of San Antonio, October 20, 2026.
City of San Antonio
Looking Ahead: San Antonio Faces Important Decisions and Opportunities
The coming days will bring several important developments for the Alamo City.
Residents are preparing for another round of potentially heavy rainfall, while city leaders consider how to balance infrastructure investment, neighborhood priorities, and economic development.
The approaching emissions testing requirement will affect local motorists, and strong early voting participation suggests that the November elections will attract significant community attention.
Meanwhile, the opening of a major new H-E-B and the continuation of local cultural celebrations demonstrate the city's growth and enduring community traditions.
From public safety and economic development to education and neighborhood investment, San Antonio continues to navigate the opportunities and challenges that accompany a growing metropolitan area.
As the city moves toward November, staying informed and engaged will remain important for residents throughout Bexar County.
Sources and Full Links
1. MySA: Storms Could Hit Parts of San Antonio Ahead of Halloween
October 28, 2026
https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/weather/article/weathersan-antonio-rain-floods-22490766.php
2. KTSA: Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Possible Across South Texas
October 28, 2026
https://www.ktsa.com/nws-heavy-rain-flash-flooding-possible-across-parts-of-south-texas/
3. MySA: New H-E-B Opens in Converse
October 28, 2026
https://www.mysanantonio.com/business/article/heb-converse-grand-opening-22484219.php
4. MySA: San Antonio Businesses Fear Major Construction Will Hurt Sales
October 28, 2026
https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/san-antonio-businesses-construction-22485930.php
5. MySA: Final Days of Early Voting in Texas
October 26, 2026
https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/early-voting-san-antonio-22494997.php
6. News 4 San Antonio: Dan Patrick and Vikki Goodwin Discuss Major Issues
October 27, 2026
https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/dan-patrick-goodwin-lay-out-opposing-plans-on-taxes-schools-and-border-security-in-texas
7. KSAT: Mayor Jones Discusses $442 Million Bond and Data Center Regulations
October 27, 2026
https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2026/10/28/mayor-jones-previews-data-center-rule-proposals-442m-bond-package-distribution-ahead-of-council-meeting-thursday/
8. News 4 San Antonio: Bexar County Emissions Testing Begins November 1
October 27–28, 2026
https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/texas-emissions-testing-mandate-starts-nov-1-across-bexar-county-despite-pushback
9. KTSA: Man Critically Injured in Southwest Side Road-Rage Shooting
October 28, 2026
https://www.ktsa.com/sapd-man-critically-injured-in-southwest-side-road-rage-shooting/
10. MySA: Students Return to Sotomayor High School Following Bomb Threat
October 27, 2026
https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/sotomayor-high-school-bomb-threat-northside-isd-22497039.php
11. MySA: Six Flags Fiesta Texas Safety Review
October 28, 2026
https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/six-flags-fiesta-texas-safety-22494445.php
12. City of San Antonio: Celebrate Día de los Muertos Downtown
October 20, 2026
https://www.sa.gov/Directory/News-Releases/Celebrate-D%C3%ADa-de-los-Muertos-in-Downtown-San-Antonio-2026