On Sunday, President Donald Trump approved a major disaster declaration in response to the catastrophic flood that struck the Texas Hill Country.
“I just signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, Texas, to ensure that our brave first responders immediately have the resources they need. These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. “The Trump Administration continues to work closely with state and local leaders. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was on the ground yesterday with Governor Greg Abbott, who is working hard to help the people of his Great State. Our incredible U.S. Coast Guard, together with State First Responders, have saved more than 850 lives.”
After determining the damage and severity of a natural event, the president can issue a major disaster declaration, which provides a range of "federal assistance programs for individuals and public infrastructure, including funds for both emergency and permanent work," according to Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The declaration comes as rescue and recovery operations enter a third day following the devastating floods.
The death toll in Kerr County’s flood continued to rise on Sunday morning as county officials announced that 59 — including 21 children — were now confirmed dead, with 11 campers and one counselor still missing.
This article was originally published in the July 8, 2025 edition of the Kerrville Daily Times. It was also used to contribute to an article in the Seguin Gazette.
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