President Donald Trump has issued a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County, officially activating FEMA, U.S. Coast Guard, and other federal resources to support search, rescue, and recovery efforts following the devastating flash floods that have claimed at least 82 lives, including dozens of children.
The declaration unlocks grants for temporary housing, home repair loans, and cost-sharing aid for infrastructure, nonprofits, and local governments impacted by the July 4‑6 flooding.
President Trump announced the decision on Truth Social, thanking first responders, Governor Greg Abbott, the Coast Guard and FEMA for their ongoing efforts. “Melania and I are praying for all the families… our brave first responders are on site doing what they do best,” he posted, and also indicated plans to visit Texas later in the week while avoiding hindering relief operations.
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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that federal teams are working closely with local authorities, deploying Coast Guard assets and ramping up FEMA support to help affected residents and communities rebuild.
Despite strong federal response, officials and residents continue to question whether earlier warnings and federal staffing cuts - particularly within the National Weather Service - may have delayed evacuation and exacerbated the impact.
With additional rain still in the forecast and search-and-rescue operations ongoing, the federal declaration offers critical financial and logistical support - but scrutiny remains as Texas rebuilds and more answers are sought.
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