Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster following severe flooding that has claimed at least 50 lives and left numerous others missing, including multiple participants from a girls’ summer camp. The flooding, which has been described as one of the most devastating in the state’s history, has prompted a massive mobilization of state and local emergency services. Search and rescue teams are intensifying their efforts to locate the missing and recover the deceased, with officials warning that the search is expected to take weeks.
Authorities have confirmed that the heavy rainfall, which has been linked to an unusual weather pattern, has led to the overflow of major rivers and the inundation of several towns. The disaster has forced the evacuation of thousands of residents, with many seeking shelter in emergency shelters or with family and friends. In a statement, Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of community solidarity and the need for continued support for the affected families and local communities.
As the search operations proceed, officials are also grappling with the long-term implications of the disaster, including the need for infrastructure improvements to better withstand future extreme weather events. The incident has sparked calls for increased investment in disaster preparedness and climate resilience measures. Meanwhile, the state has announced an emergency fund to support recovery efforts and provide assistance to those impacted by the flooding.