KERRVILLE, TX (KRLD) - President Donald Trump arrived in Central Texas today to assess catastrophic flood damage that has claimed over 120 lives and left more than 160 people missing across the Hill Country region.
Aerial surveys and ground-level visits in Kerr County will include stops with first responders, families of victims, and state officials - accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, Gov. Greg Abbott, and U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz.
Trump’s visit follows his July 6 federal disaster declaration for the region - unlocking grants, low-interest loans, and emergency aid - and represents a shift from his earlier stance on FEMA, which had previously been targeted for defunding.
Related
In recent remarks, Trump described the floods as “a once-in-every-200-year event” and praised the rapid state and federal response, applauding Gov. Abbott for an “incredible” handling of the crisis.
Support agencies have mobilized quickly: FEMA has established a task force in Center Point, with hundreds of federal workers on the ground alongside Texas and Mexican search-and-rescue teams, airboats, and drones.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is co-chairing a council to evaluate emergency protocols, while critics warn that past FEMA budget cuts - including staffing reductions - may have undercut early forecasting and warning systems.
As recovery continues, Trump’s visit is expected to reinforce the administration’s commitment to disaster relief - even as debate emerges over the proper federal role in emergency preparedness, especially given signs of both praise and scrutiny aimed at local alert failures across the region .
Stay with KRLD.com and NewsRadio 1080 KRLD for live coverage from Kerrville and updates on the ongoing relief efforts.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube