Texas Congressman Randy Weber on Kerrville Flood Disaster and Federal Response

Unprecedented Flood Disaster in Kerrville

• ⚠️ Congressman Randy Weber describes the flood in Kerrville, Texas, as an 'unbelievable disaster' unlike any he has witnessed in his 70+ years in Texas.
• ⚡ The floodwaters rose an astonishing 26 feet in 45 minutes, leaving residents with virtually no time to react.
• 💔 The disaster has been heartbreaking, with tragic loss of life, including children celebrating the Fourth of July and a volunteer firefighter.

Federal and State Disaster Response

• 🤝 Weber contrasts the current response with Hurricane Harvey in 2017, noting that federal and state agencies, including FEMA and the Texas Department of Emergency Management (TEDM), are working much better together.
• 🗣️ He highlights the President's quick engagement with Texas officials following the flood.
• 🏛️ Having served in the Texas legislature, Weber has a deep understanding of TEDM's capabilities and praises their experienced handling of various natural disasters.

Comparing Disaster Types and Preparedness

• 🌊 While Texas is accustomed to hurricanes, dust storms, and tornadoes, the suddenness and severity of the Kerrville flood were exceptional.
• ⏳ Hurricanes, unlike flash floods, typically provide several days' warning, allowing for evacuation and preparation.
• 🚒 Weber shares a personal story of a wife clinging to a tree for 5 hours, emphasizing the severity of the rescue efforts required.

Personal Impact and Loss

• 😔 Weber expresses the profound sadness of seeing parents who lost their daughters during the disaster.
• 📍 Even his own district, about 240 miles from Kerrville, experienced fatalities due to the widespread impact of the flooding.
• 🚒 The loss of a volunteer firefighter underscores the bravery and sacrifice of first responders and their families.