Texas Lawmakers Investigate Hill Country Flood Response
Texas lawmakers are investigating the devastating July 4 floods that ravaged Kerr County. The floods resulted in significant loss of life, primarily at a local summer camp. Lawmakers and local officials are scrutinizing the emergency response and exploring measures to improve disaster preparedness, amidst legislative tensions over redistricting.
- Country:
- United States
Texas lawmakers are intensifying their inquiry into the July 4 floods that wreaked havoc in Kerr County, as a legislative panel visits the devastated Texas Hill Country. At least 136 lives were lost, with a significant number being young campers and counselors at Camp Mystic.
Local officials, who have faced criticism over their disaster response, will be questioned. Residents, some of whom recounted harrowing experiences through new records and 911 call logs, will also address the lawmakers. The published records reveal the frightening chaos as residents battled to escape the rapidly rising waters.
The inquiry occurs amid a busy legislative special session, as flood relief is debated alongside contentious redistricting efforts pushed by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott. Proposed bills aim to bolster warning systems and flood infrastructure, vital for the disaster-prone region. Despite criticism, Abbott and Texas Republicans have refrained from assigning blame.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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