by On Thursday morning, rescuers and volunteers resumed their search for victims and survivors of the terrible floods that killed at least 120 people in Central Texas over the weekend, searching through the muddy remains of trailer parks, cabins, and other wreckage.
Nearly a week after a heavy downpour prompted the Guadalupe River to overflow significantly in the early hours of July 4, the likelihood of discovering more survivors has decreased. However, federal and state authorities have pledged to keep searching until all missing persons are located. Approximately 173 individuals are still missing throughout the state.
The floods are among the deadliest natural disasters to strike children in decades in the United States. Thirty-six children were killed in Kerr County alone, the most severely affected area; many of them were from Camp Mystic, a century-old Christian summer camp for girls. As of Wednesday, authorities reported that the bodies of five campers and a 19-year-old counselor were still missing.
Questions concerning the absence of warning sirens along the Guadalupe River’s banks, which is known as Flash Flood Alley, and if more could have been done to prepare for the floods are now being asked of state and municipal officials as the search continues. Flood warning signs should have been installed by next summer, according to Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who said they might have saved lives.
According to local officials, they will thoroughly examine their flood reaction and preparedness. At a news conference on Wednesday, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha stated that if adjustments are required, they will be made.
In the next special session this month, Governor Greg Abbott has urged state lawmakers to enhance the state’s flood preparedness and response. Mr. Abbott requested that lawmakers take into account measures that would enhance emergency communications and early warning systems in regions that are vulnerable to flooding. Lawmakers also intend to handle a number of other issues, such as lowering property taxes and regulating intoxicating hemp products. Additionally, Governor Abbott has urged legislators to update the state’s congressional maps.
Information about the victims kept coming to light. Those killed were a beloved high school teacher, youngsters attending sleep-away camp for the first time, and a 23-year-old police officer and his parents camping in their RV.
