On Sunday, July 6, the rescue efforts for the flooding in Texas entered the third day with the death toll climbing to 67. President Trump signed a declaration on Sunday announcing the Texas flood as a major disaster, allowing rescue personnel in Texas to access necessary federal resources.
In a post on his social media platform “Truth Social,” President Trump stated, “I have just signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, Texas, to ensure our brave first responders on the ground get the resources they need immediately.”
“These families are going through unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost and many still missing,” the President said, “The Trump administration continues to work closely with state and local leaders. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited the disaster site with Texas Governor Greg Abbott yesterday. The Governor is working hard to assist the people of this great state. Our excellent U.S. Coast Guard together with Texas first responders have saved over 850 lives. God bless these families, God bless Texas!”
The disaster occurred in the early hours of Friday, July 4, as heavy rain caused the Guadalupe River to rise by 26 feet (approximately 8 meters) within just 45 minutes, submerging homes and camps along the riverbank. Various camps including the Christian summer camp “Camp Mystic” were severely affected.
As of now, the search and rescue operation is still ongoing. The Department of Homeland Security stated that the Coast Guard has deployed two helicopters in the Llano area of Texas and is assisting with two helicopters and three C-144 aircraft equipped with thermal imaging cameras to search for more survivors.
Following Trump’s signing of the major disaster declaration for Texas, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has begun deploying resources to Texas.
“We are currently deploying federal emergency management resources to Texas first responders on the ground and will work closely with state and local authorities to ensure the people of Texas receive the necessary support during ongoing search and rescue operations and into the recovery phase,” Secretary Noem said in a statement.
Texas Governor Abbott requested assistance from the federal government on Saturday. During a press conference, he stated that Trump is “deeply concerned” about the situation and understands the “severity of the destruction.”
State and local leaders in central Texas have reported that they have received all necessary assistance from the federal government.