Devastating Floods in Texas Leave 67 Dead as Trump Declares a “Major Disaster”
The toll from the violent floods that struck central Texas has risen to at least 67 dead, while President Donald Trump declared a “major disaster” on Sunday to mobilize federal resources needed to address the aftermath of this climate disaster.
Local authorities reported 59 deaths in Kerr County, including 21 children, while four deaths were reported in Travis County, three in Burnet, and one in Kendall, as confirmed by Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha during a press conference.
Rescue teams continue to search for 11 children and an adult still missing after the floods hit the area following heavy rains early Friday. Sources indicated that the missing individuals were participating in a summer camp near the banks of a river in Kerr County.
Trump announced on his platform Truth Social that the disaster declaration was made under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, pointing out that the decision aims to ensure the urgent provision of resources to rescue teams.
The heavy rainfall, which exceeded monthly averages within a matter of hours, resulted in sudden flooding in several areas of central Texas, causing significant human and material losses.