Trump Declares Disaster in Texas as Flash Floods Kill 69

President Donald Trump issued a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County, Texas, on Sunday as devastating flash floods ripped through central Texas, leaving at least 69 dead including 15 children and dozens still missing. The declaration comes after the Guadalupe River surged more than 20 feet in just 45 minutes, turning campgrounds, neighborhoods, and roads into deadly torrents.

“I just signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County, Texas, to ensure that our Brave First Responders immediately have the resources they need,” Trump announced on Truth Social. “These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy… GOD BLESS THE FAMILIES, AND GOD BLESS TEXAS!”

The disaster declaration unlocks immediate federal funding and logistical support for impacted areas. Trump also sent a formal letter to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, assuring him that Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem who visited the state Saturday is available “at all times” to coordinate the federal response.

The damage is staggering:

• At least 69 people confirmed dead, including children from a summer camp, with 12 still missing.

• Over 850 lives saved through coordinated rescue efforts by the U.S. Coast Guard and Texas first responders.

• Multiple counties under new flash flood warnings, including Tarrant and Johnson, as storms continue.

Camp Mystic, a beloved retreat on the banks of the Guadalupe River, has become a focal point of the tragedy, with 11 campers and one counselor still unaccounted for. Search and rescue operations are ongoing.

Trump's rapid response stood in stark contrast to the sluggish, bureaucratic disaster declarations of previous administrations. While legacy media outlets focus on political squabbles, the Trump White House wasted no time rallying resources and boots on the ground.

And the leadership in Texas has responded in kind. Governor Abbott, already coordinating with local officials, welcomed Noem and praised the swift action by federal partners. “We’re seeing the very best of America here,” he said.

In the face of overwhelming tragedy, this moment has also highlighted the heroism of first responders many of whom have worked around the clock with little rest. Trump made sure they weren’t forgotten. “Our incredible U.S. Coast Guard, together with State First Responders, have saved more than 850 lives,” he said.

With waters still rising and families still searching for loved ones, the nation’s focus remains on rescue, recovery, and rebuilding. And as always, Texas stands strong but not alone.

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