The devastating flooding in Texas has tragically resulted in at least 119 fatalities, with authorities confirming this number as of Wednesday morning. The worst-hit area, Kerr County, has reported 95 deaths, including 59 adults and 36 children, with 27 of the deceased still unidentified. In total, there are 161 individuals unaccounted for in Kerr County, contributing to a statewide count of 173 missing persons.
Search and recovery operations are ongoing as residents begin to assess the extensive damage from the floods. Local officials are actively engaged in rescue efforts, with a focus on areas like Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian camp, from which five campers and one counselor remain missing.
The response to the flooding has raised concerns, particularly regarding the efficiency of the government’s alert system. Investigations revealed that first responders had requested the activation of a mass-alert system shortly before the flooding struck, but there was a delay in issuing warnings to the public. While some residents received alerts promptly, others reported receiving no alerts until several hours later. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha has called for answers regarding these delays, stating the need for transparency and accountability to the affected families and the community.
Furthermore, the lack of outdoor weather sirens in some neighborhoods has been criticized, leading to calls for a more reliable forecasting and alert system. A Change.org petition advocating for an early warning siren system has garnered over 35,000 signatures, highlighting the community’s desire for improved safety measures.
During the ongoing efforts to aid those affected, local officials reminded the public to be cautious around search crews and heavy equipment as they work tirelessly to clear debris and recover victims.
In a positive development, the federal government has recognized the severity of the disaster, with the Trump administration declaring it a “major disaster” and providing resources to assist local recovery efforts. This collaborative response could play a vital role in the recovery and rebuilding process for those impacted by this tragedy.