Science & Nature
In the Wake of Deadly Flooding in Texas, How Disaster Relief Groups Help Communities in Need
Texas and the rest of the nation are mourning as the death toll rises to 120 almost a week after catastrophic flooding devastated parts of the state over Fourth of July weekend. At least 160 individuals are still considered missing in Kerr County alone.
The emergency response system and warning systems have since come under scrutiny for underestimating the rainfall’s intensity, and for alerts not reaching all residents.
News of a lackluster emergency management system follows the Trump administration’s massive cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
In a statement to WTTW News, NOAA said, “NOAA leadership is taking steps to address those who took a voluntary early retirement option. NWS continues to conduct short-term Temporary Duty assignments (TDYs), and is in the process of conducting a series of Reassignment Opportunity Notices (RONs) to fill roles at NWS field locations with the greatest operational need. Additionally, a targeted number of permanent, mission-critical field positions will soon be advertised under an exception to the Department-wide hiring freeze to further stabilize frontline operations. The National Weather Service continues to meet its core missions amid recent reorganization efforts and is taking steps to prioritize critical research and services that keep the American public safe and informed. NWS is committed to investing in new technology and prioritizing public safety.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called on state lawmakers to approve funding for new warning systems and emergency communications in flood-prone areas when the legislature meets later this month. Abbott also asked for financial relief for the response and recovery efforts.
“We must ensure better preparation for such events in the future,” he said in a statement Wednesday.
President Donald Trump has pledged to provide whatever relief Texas needs to recover and is planning to visit the state Friday.
Some non-government organizations are on the ground in Texas helping out amid the devastation, like Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization that provides disaster relief to communities nationally and abroad.
“The water rose at such a rapid rate that it overwhelmed local communities as well as responders,” said Mike Watkins, senior director of Midwest operations at Team Rubicon, emphasizing that the organization’s focus is solely helping those caught in the wake of the crisis. “I think there will be plenty of time to dig into lessons learned after we help the people who need help the most.”
While Chicago doesn’t have the same level of threat as Texans or other southern states as it relates to hurricane season, locals do have to worry about the effects of tornadoes, extreme heat and flash floods.
Watkins got started in crisis management a decade ago when he joined Team Rubicon and was immediately sent to Coal City, Illinois, after a tornado tore through the town. He’s seen more in the area since then, including in the Austin neighborhood.
“The biggest things to prepare for are alternate power sources. Heat is the biggest factor after a storm, so hydration — having extra water and resources,” said Watkins, advising locals to prepare for the worst-case scenario.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
