President Donald Trump issued a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, Texas, Sunday in response to the Guadalupe River floods, activating the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as the number of those killed by the floods rises.
Trump announced the declaration in a Truth Social post July 6, saying it will ensure that first responders have access to the resources they need.
“These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing,” he stated. “The Trump Administration continues to work closely with State and Local Leaders.”
He praised the efforts of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, the US Coast Guard, and state first responders, stating that more than 850 lives have been saved.
In a US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) news release, Noem thanked Trump for issuing the declaration.
“We are currently deploying federal emergency management resources to Texas first responders, and will work closely with state and local authorities to ensure the people of Texas get the support they need as search efforts continue and recovery begins,” she added. “Pray for the victims, the families, and our first responders. God bless Texas.”
The DHS said in the release that the Coast Guard is currently working around the clock to continue search and rescue missions. The New York Times reported Sunday afternoon that the death toll has risen to at least 70, with 11 campers and one counselor still missing from Camp Mystic, the Christian girls camp that was majorly impacted by the floods. At least 59 of the total deaths occurred in Kerr County.
In a news release, Abbott thanked Trump for his dedication to helping Texas cope with the disaster.
“This federal support will ensure local officials, emergency management personnel, and first responders have the critical resources they need to help Texans rebuild and recover from these devastating floods,” Abbott stated. “Our hearts continue to grieve for our fellow Texans who have endured unspeakable loss. We continue to work around the clock with our federal and local partners to search for those still missing and to help impacted Texans move forward.”
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Author: Hannah Hiester
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