Texas Mayor Pushes for Urgent Flood Warning System
The Kerrville Mayor urges state lawmakers to implement a flood warning system after deadly flash floods killed over 130 people. The proposal was discussed during a special legislative session, with local leaders and residents emphasizing the need for improved emergency measures. Concerns about existing warning infrastructure and government response were raised.
The mayor of Kerrville, Texas, is calling for the swift implementation of a flood warning system following devastating flash floods that resulted in over 130 fatalities. Addressing a Senate-House committee, Mayor Joe Herring emphasized the urgency of designing and installing such a system by next summer to save lives.
The recent floods, which struck the Guadalupe River on July 4, prompted a special legislative session initiated by Governor Greg Abbott. Lawmakers visited the affected region to gather input from local officials and residents, with emphasis placed on the absence of effective flash-flood warning mechanisms.
Concerns were voiced regarding the rapid rise of floodwaters and the lack of timely alerts, exacerbated by staffing shortages at the National Weather Service. Lawmakers pledged ongoing commitment to remedying flood preparedness issues beyond the current special session.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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