In the wake of catastrophic floods in Texas that claimed at least 121 lives, President Trump visited Kerrville to express the nation’s condolences and discuss recovery efforts.
**Trump Visits Texas After Devastating Floods, Addresses Ongoing Search Efforts**
**Trump Visits Texas After Devastating Floods, Addresses Ongoing Search Efforts**
President Trump assures support for Texas flood victims as rescue operations continue for the missing.
U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump visited Kerrville, Texas, on Friday to assess the aftermath of destructive floods that have left at least 121 people dead. The couple met with local leaders amidst scenes of devastation, highlighting the federal government's commitment to aiding recovery efforts. "I've never seen anything like it," Trump remarked while surveying the destruction, which predominantly affected Kerr County.
More than 12,300 volunteers have joined the ongoing search for 161 individuals still unaccounted for across the state, dedicating up to ten hours daily to their mission. The extent of the flooding has taken many by surprise, particularly given its rapid onset; areas along the Guadalupe River were inundated when water levels rose 26 feet (8m) in just 45 minutes.
During a roundtable discussion with officials at a local youth center, Trump conveyed his and Melania's support, stating they were there to "express the love and support, and the anguish of our entire nation." The First Lady, typically reserved in public engagements, actively participated by comforting families affected by the tragedy. "We are grieving with you," she said expressing her condolences to parents who lost young daughters in the floods, including 27 campers from Camp Mystic.
Search and rescue efforts continue to intensify, with teams sifting through debris for missing individuals. Rajeev Fernando, Chief Medical Officer with Heal Corps, noted the challenging conditions, stating that as bodies are displaced downstream, the operation must continuously adapt. Critiques have emerged regarding how the flood warnings were communicated, with some questioning whether sufficient alerts were issued prior to the disaster.
Trump dismissed inquiries about the adequacy of warnings, stating, "Only an evil person would ask a question like that," and praised the heroism of rescue teams. The floods have raised pressing concerns about weather forecasting and communication capabilities, prompting discussions on the future of disaster preparedness in the region.
As the search continues, volunteers like Joe Rigelsky from Upstream International are actively engaged with specially-trained cadaver dogs to comb through the wreckage. Personal items, including children's toys, have surfaced in the debris, connecting families to their lost loved ones and fostering community support as residents rally to reclaim their lives after this tragic event.
