Latest news with #MajorDisasterDeclaration
Hindustan Times
21 hours ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Donald Trump to visit Texas week after flash floods; check full schedule
President Donald Trump will visit Texas on Friday, July 11, a week after deadly floods led to the loss of over 120 lives. An Associated Press report said that the US President is expected to embark on an aerial tour of some of the hard-hit areas. He will also visit the state emergency operations centre to interact with first responders and relatives of flood victims. US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will visit the flood-affected areas of Texas (Bloomberg) Trump's visit to Kerrville County in Texas comes as the focus shifts towards the government's response to the floods. The disaster in Texas is the deadliest of Trump's second term in office, Reuters reported. Local and federal officials have faced scrutiny about whether more could have been done to warn people about the rising water levels. Reuters reported that years ago, Kerr County declined to install an early-warning system after it did not secure state grant money. The Trump administration has backed the response to the Texas floods via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It has sent funds for disaster recovery, property losses and temporary housing. The US President has largely declined to talk about his prior plans to reduce or abolish FEMA and plans for its key functions to be carried out at the state and local level. Also read: Camp Mystic: Haunting visuals reveal aftermath of deadly Texas flood that left 27 dead Full schedule of Donald Trump's Texas visit: As per the Austin American-Statesman, the full schedule of the US President's visit to Kerrville County, Texas, is as follows: 8:30 am: President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will leave the White House and travel to Kerrville, Texas. 11:20 am: Donald and Melania Trump arrive in Kerrville. 1:10 pm: The president and first lady will take part in a roundtable discussion with local officials and first responders. 2:15 pm: Donald and Melania Trump to leave Kerrville and visit Bedminster, New Jersey. Also read: Who was John Burgess? Brother of country singer Pat Green swept away in deadly Texas floods What did Donald Trump say about the Texas floods? The Republican President signed a 'Major Disaster Declaration' for Kerr County on July 6. In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised the state first responders and other teams involved in the rescue and search efforts for saving more than 850 lives. In the early hours of July 4, torrential rainfall led to the Guadalupe River overflowing its banks. The resulting flash floods killed over 100. Dozens remain missing. One of the biggest sites of tragedy was Camp Mystic, an almost century-old summer camp for girls located on the banks of the river. Floodwaters swept away dozens of campers from the location. At least 27 people have been reported dead in the incident.
Newsweek
a day ago
- Climate
- Newsweek
The Bulletin July 8, 2025
The rundown: Emergency operations in flood-stricken Kerr County, Texas, suffered a setback on Monday when a privately operated drone collided with a helicopter involved in emergency operations, city officials said. Why it matters: In a post on Facebook Monday by Kerrville City Hall, officials reiterated that private drones need to be grounded following the collision. At least 104 people have died during the catastrophic flooding in central Texas. The majority of those killed were in Kerr County, where 28 children have died. Read more in-depth coverage: Texas Flooding Map, Update: Thousands Face New Flash Flood Risk TL/DR: Search and rescue missions are ongoing in the region as President Trump signed a Major Disaster Declaration for the area while noting over 800 people have been saved. What happens now? Emergency search and recovery teams continue to operate in Kerr County and surrounding communities, with federal and state authorities coordinating to address immediate needs. Deeper reading Texas Flooding: Drone, Helicopter Collide Amid Search and Rescue, City Says
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Does your insurance cover flooding? How to file a claim after devastating Texas floods
As of Monday, officials report that at least 81 people have lost their lives due to the flash floods that swept through Central Texas. Among the victims are at least 28 children from Kerr County. With people still unaccounted for, Texas Governor Greg Abbott warned that flash flooding remains a serious threat across parts of Texas, as additional rainfall is expected in several regions Monday. Authorities have urged residents of Hunt, a community in Kerr County, to seek higher ground this afternoon due to the risk of further flooding. On Sunday, President Trump announced that he signed a "Major Disaster Declaration' for relief for Kerr County in Texas, as the region deals with heavy rains and extreme flooding that have killed dozens. As residents come to terms with the aftermath of the flooding, here's what to know about relief and insurance claims: In response to the devastating floods that struck Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend, various relief options are available to assist affected individuals and communities. Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC): HHSC coordinates efforts to provide information and help to Texans during disasters. This includes assistance with food benefits (such as SNAP), health care services, and housing support. More information is available at HHSC Disaster Assistance. Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM): TDEM supports plans and programs to help prevent or lessen the impact of emergencies and disasters. They provide assistance to individuals, communities, and businesses affected by disasters. More information can be found at Texas Flood Recovery. Kerr County Flood Relief Fund: Operated by The Community Foundation, this fund supports local rescue and recovery efforts in affected towns like Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point, and Comfort. Central Texas Small Business Relief Fund: Launched by the Maestro Entrepreneur Center, this fund supports businesses affected by recent flooding in the Hill Country area. It aims to assist with urgent repairs, replacement of damaged equipment and supplies, and day-to-day operational expenses necessary for reopening. Texas Flood Information Clearinghouse: State agencies administer flood financial assistance programs, providing a "one-stop-shop" for information on flood mitigation funding opportunities for Texas' communities. Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA): Provides disaster relief resources for individuals and families, including housing assistance and information on available programs. If you have flood insurance — either through your home insurance provider or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) — it's crucial to file a claim promptly. Typically, claims must be submitted within 60 days of the flooding event. If you're having trouble contacting your insurer, the Texas Department of Insurance recommends calling 1-800-252-3439 for help. Even without insurance, you may still be eligible for federal disaster assistance. All impacted residents are urged to thoroughly document their property damage using photos and videos. While it's important to begin cleanup, the state recommends holding off on discarding damaged items until you've consulted with your insurance adjuster. It's also important to note that FEMA aid is generally only available in areas formally designated as disaster zones by the president. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the Texas Hill Country, including areas like Kerrville and San Antonio, due to ongoing heavy rainfall. Forecasts predict additional rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 10 inches. This excessive rainfall poses a risk of flash flooding in low-lying regions, rivers, creeks, and low water crossings. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Does your insurance cover Texas flooding? How to file a claim
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
Texas Flooding: Drone, Helicopter Collide Amid Search and Rescue, City Says
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Emergency operations in flood-stricken Kerr County, Texas, suffered a setback on Monday when a privately operated drone collided with a helicopter involved in emergency operations, city officials said. Newsweek reached out to Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. via email for additional comment. Why It Matters Over 90 people have died with dozens still missing following the flash flooding on the Guadalupe River. An all-girls camp in Kerr County, Camp Mystic, confirmed over 25 staffers and campers have died following the deadly surge. Search and rescue missions are ongoing in the region as President Donald Trump signed a Major Disaster Declaration for the area while noting over 800 people have been saved. What To Know In a post on Facebook Monday by Kerrville City Hall, officials reiterated that private drones need to be grounded following the collision. "This afternoon, a private drone illegally operating in restricted airspace collided with a helicopter involved in emergency operations in Kerr County. The helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing, and a critical piece of response equipment is now out of service until further notice," the post read. Continuing, city officials said, "This was entirely preventable." "Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are not suggestions. They are federal airspace rules designed to protect lives during emergency situations. When you fly a drone in restricted areas, you're not just breaking the law -- you're putting first responders, emergency crews, and the public at serious risk," Kerrville City Hall concluded. Kerr County Sheriff's Office gave an update on local flood fatalities on Facebook Monday saying 84 deceased have been found as of 2 p.m. CT. That number includes 56 adults and 28 children, the sheriff's office says. Ten campers from Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for along with one counselor. "We ask private boat owners to stay off the Guadalupe River and its tributaries at this time to allow search and rescue teams to operate without interference," the sheriff's office also asked. A Blackhawk Helicopter can be seen flying over the Guadalupe River near Camp Mystic looking for survivors or the remains of victims swept up in the flash flooding on July 7, 2025, in Hunt, Texas.... A Blackhawk Helicopter can be seen flying over the Guadalupe River near Camp Mystic looking for survivors or the remains of victims swept up in the flash flooding on July 7, 2025, in Hunt, Texas. (Photo by) More What People Are Saying Texas Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday: "In the face of disaster, Texans come together. This is every parent's nightmare, but we will come through this." Trump on Truth Social on Sunday: "I just signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County, Texas, to ensure that our Brave First Responders immediately have the resources they need. These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing. The Trump Administration continues to work closely with State and Local Leaders. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was on the ground yesterday with Governor Greg Abbott, who is working hard to help the people of his Great State. Our incredible U.S. Coast Guard, together with State First Responders, have saved more than 850 lives. GOD BLESS THE FAMILIES, AND GOD BLESS TEXAS!" Texas Governor Greg Abbott on X on Monday: "DPS troopers continue recovery and rescue operations in Kerr County. They have been working day and night. We will not stop until every missing person is found." What Happens Next Emergency search and recovery teams continue to operate in Kerr County and surrounding communities, with federal and state authorities coordinating to address immediate needs.
The Star
5 days ago
- Climate
- The Star
At least 87 dead, dozens missing in Texas flooding as rescue enters fourth day
HOUSTON, July 7 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from flash flooding in central Texas has risen to 87, with dozens still missing as search and rescue efforts entered the fourth day on Monday, according to local authorities. Camp Mystic, a 99-year-old all-girls Christian summer camp along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County, grieved Monday the loss of at least 27 campers as well as counselors after heavy rains led to multiple flash floods in central Texas on Friday and Saturday. Ten girls and a counselor from the camp were still unaccounted for as of Monday morning, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha told a press conference. Leitha said that as of Monday morning, 48 adults and 27 children were confirmed dead in Kerr County flooding, many of them pending identification. Four other counties in central Texas have reported a combined total of 12 deaths, including several children. "Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy," the camp wrote in a statement on its website. "We are praying for them constantly." Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday approved federal disaster assistance as part of a Major Disaster Declaration to unlock key federal resources for Texas. In the meantime, criticism has been mounting over how the National Weather Service, whose budget and staff were cut under the Trump administration earlier this year, handled the emergency. Some local officials and residents said the flood warnings were late or insufficient. Additional heavy rainfall is expected in the coming days, keeping parts of the state at risk for further flooding, according to Abbott.
