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Intense rainfall in Central Texas has triggered swift water rescues as the death toll from recent flooding rises to 132. Governor Greg Abbott announced ongoing rescue operations in multiple counties, urging residents to heed evacuation orders due to dangerous water levels. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the region through Monday morning.
Central Texas residents impacted by the July 4 floods continue to await federal disaster assistance, with over 100 fatalities reported in Kerr County. Governor Greg Abbott has requested aid for additional counties, including Burnet, as residents like Kendall Myers express frustration over delays in assistance.
Local relief organizations in Central Texas urge volunteers to avoid self-deployment in flood-affected areas, as uncoordinated efforts complicate rescue operations. Traffic from unregistered helpers has hindered emergency teams, prompting officials to recommend signing up with recognized organizations.
Heavy rains last week improved drought conditions in Central Texas, downgrading Travis County from "severe" drought to "abnormally dry." Lakes Travis and Buchanan are now at 76% capacity, significantly up from 50% earlier this month.
The Long Center will host a benefit concert for Kerr County on Sunday, with proceeds supporting the Kerr County Relief Fund for flood recovery. More than 15 artists, including Aaron Behrens and Sara Hickman, will perform, with doors opening at 4 PM.
Wheatsville Co-op will acquire two Fresh Plus locations in Austin, marking its first move towards smaller stores. The co-op aims to better serve local neighborhoods while maintaining its main South Lamar location.
Devastating floods in northwest Travis County have isolated 500 residents after the Big Sandy Bridge collapsed, resulting in seven confirmed deaths and at least ten individuals missing. Community volunteers are delivering essential supplies, while local organizations, including Round Mountain Baptist Church, have mobilized to provide aid and support.
Austin Fire Chief Joel Baker faces scrutiny from the firefighters' union over his department's delayed response to severe flooding in Kerr County, which resulted in at least 84 fatalities. The Austin Firefighters Association accuses Baker of neglecting early mutual aid requests, while Baker claims he was unaware of official requests until July 4. Union members are set to vote on a no-confidence resolution against Baker.
Central Texas businesses and nonprofits mobilize support for flood relief efforts following devastating floods over the Fourth of July weekend. Various fundraising events and donation drives aim to assist recovery and rebuilding efforts in the affected areas. The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund is a primary beneficiary of these initiatives.
Texas officials praised President Trump for his swift response to the deadly floods that claimed numerous lives, while questions linger about the failure to adequately warn residents. Gov. Greg Abbott emphasized Trump's concern for Texas, but criticism arose regarding communication failures from local officials and the National Weather Service.