The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was activated in Texas after President Donald Trump signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County.
Flash floods tore through the Guadalupe River corridor Friday morning, killing at least 59 people, including 38 adults and 21 children. Many remain unaccounted for, including 11 children missing from Camp Mystic.
FEMA will work with Texas state and local authorities to aid in the search and rescue efforts, according to a U.S. Homeland Security press release sent out Sunday morning.
Shortly before FEMA was activated, Trump announced the declaration via Truth Social, commending Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, the U.S. Coast Guard and first responders for their efforts.
“Our incredible U.S. Coast Guard, together with State First Responders, have saved more than 850 lives. GOD BLESS THE FAMILIES, AND GOD BLESS TEXAS!,” Trump wrote in the social media post.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem is working closely with Gov. Abbott, Trump says. The two held a press conference on Saturday, discussing the ongoing search efforts and emergency response.
In a post to X, Noem announced that federal emergency management resources are being deployed to Texas. Shortly after, FEMA was officially activated.
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.… pic.twitter.com/3tFXROJ5Jo
— Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) July 6, 2025
In addition, the United States Coast Guard continues to provide help in Hill Country, flying helicopters and thermal airplanes to help with search and rescue efforts, Homeland Security says.
Cities around state, including North Texas, have also sent aid or personnel to the region. A Denton Fire Department boat crew was deployed to Hill Country Saturday afternoon.
The Texas A&M Task Force 1 and 2 were also deployed with land, air and water rescue capabilities. Over 175 people were sent to the area.
How to help with Central Texas flood relief
In response to questions about what people can do to help the area recover from the deadly flood, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, a 501(c)(3) charity serving the Texas Hill Country, has established a relief fund to support vetted local response, relief and recovery efforts.
Organizers said all donations go directly to organizations working on the front lines of the July 4 flooding emergency. All donations are tax-deductible, and you will receive a receipt for your gift.
To learn more or donate, visit the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country here.
Great Job Sara Hummadi & the Team @ NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth Source link for sharing this story.
