In 2021, Kerr County, Texas, declined federal funds that could have been used for a flood warning system, citing opposition to the Biden administration and a desire to avoid federal government involvement. Despite prior discussions dating back to 2016 regarding a siren and gauge system, and available funding through the American Rescue Plan Act, local officials faced political pressure from conservative residents who rejected federal assistance. The county ultimately used the funds for other purposes, with no money allocated for flood alerts. After deadly flash floods in July 2025 killed over 100 people, survivors and leaders are now calling for accountability, with one council member vowing to install a local siren personally.
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Four days after devastating flash floods along the Guadalupe River in Texas, over 160 people remained missing, according to Governor Greg Abbott. The majority of those unaccounted for were in Kerr County, where recovery efforts were underway, and officials had set up a hotline for families seeking information. Questions arose about the lack of warnings prior to the floods, particularly in the Hill Country, which is known as “flash flood alley” and where numerous youth camps and campgrounds are located. Authorities prioritized victim recovery over an investigation into the timing of their response, as search and rescue teams and volunteers continued the search for survivors.
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The devastating flash floods in Central Texas, which claimed over 80 lives, are prompting criticism of Kerr County’s past decisions to forgo a siren alert system due to budgetary constraints. Despite being located in a flood-prone area, the county rejected proposals for such a system, while a state bill aimed at funding improved disaster alert infrastructure, including sirens, failed earlier this year. The recent catastrophic flooding, which caused the Guadalupe River to surge dramatically overnight, has highlighted the potential life-saving benefits of audible warning systems, as many residents were asleep or lacked access to mobile alerts. Now, officials are reevaluating the importance of early warning systems, with potential future legislation addressing the issue.
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A devastating flash flood in the Texas Hill Country, triggered by unprecedented rainfall, claimed the lives of at least 43 people in Kerr County, with a number still missing, including 27 girls from a summer camp. Despite a series of flash flood warnings issued by the National Weather Service, questions have been raised regarding the preparedness and response of local officials, as well as the timeliness of alerts to residents and camps along the Guadalupe River. Local authorities maintain that the intensity of the downpour was unforeseen, while meteorologists suggest that proactive measures could have reduced the fatalities. The county had considered a flood warning system but never implemented it due to the cost.
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Speaker Mike Johnson’s brief 10-word response to the deadly flooding in central Texas, which has claimed 70 lives, drew criticism. The Guadalupe River near Kerrville experienced a surge of 20-26 feet, causing significant damage and road washouts. Johnson’s comment, “All we know to do at this moment is pray,” sparked outrage on social media, with users demanding action instead of prayers. In contrast, former President Trump declared a serious disaster for Kerr County and offered aid, while state and local officials continue search and recovery efforts.
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Central Texas experienced devastating flash floods along the Guadalupe River, leading to the deaths of at least 66 people in Kerr County and other areas. Camp Mystic, a children’s summer camp, was severely impacted, with at least a dozen campers and a counselor still missing. The event prompted a major disaster declaration from President Trump and extensive search and rescue operations, including numerous air rescues. Authorities are still investigating the causes and assessing the extent of the damage, including the rapid rise of the Guadalupe River due to heavy rainfall.
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John Q. Hosedrinker