Texas Emergency Coordinator Admits Sickness and Sleep During Deadly Floods

Emergency Official's Absence During Floods

• 🚨 William B. Thomas, Kirk County's emergency management coordinator, stated he was sick and asleep when deadly floods hit central Texas on July 4th.
• 💡 Thomas defended his response, claiming there were no clear indicators of an imminent catastrophic flood based on the data available at the time.
• ⚠️ He acknowledged the situation evolved faster than predicted and expressed a desire to improve emergency preparedness in Kirk County and similar communities.

Official Accountability and Response Gaps

• 🗓️ Thomas also missed pre-approved emergency planning meetings ahead of the floods due to his absence and illness.
• 🌃 It appears other city officials were also not paying attention during the overnight hours when National Weather Service advisories were issued.
• 🏠 The county judge was at his lake house in Travis County, and the sheriff reported being asleep during the critical period.

Victim Reactions and Legislative Goals

• 💔 Family members of the over 108 victims in Kirk County expressed shock and disappointment at the lack of oversight.
• 🏛️ State lawmakers convened a hearing in Kerville as part of a special session called by Governor Abbott to learn from the disaster.
• 📝 The ultimate goal of the hearing is to implement new laws and changes before the next summer, with the mayor of Kerville requesting an alarm system.