Trump Describes Texas Floods as ‘Shocking’ and ‘Terrible’ Amid Ongoing Rescue Operations

WASHINGTON – 5 July 2025 (BSS/AFP): United States President Donald Trump has expressed deep concern over the devastating flash floods in Texas, calling the natural disaster both “shocking” and “terrible,” as the death toll continues to rise and dozens remain unaccounted for.

“It’s terrible — the floods. It’s shocking,” President Trump told reporters on Friday evening, as details of the disaster continued to emerge. His comments came while emergency crews in Texas scrambled to rescue stranded residents and locate at least 20 missing girls from a summer camp in the flood-ravaged region of Kerr County, south-central Texas.

The president confirmed that the federal government is working in close coordination with Texas authorities and pledged full support for the disaster response effort. “Oh yeah, sure, we’ll take care of it. We’re working with the governor,” he said when asked whether federal assistance would be provided.

‘A Heartbreaking Situation’

The catastrophic flooding began late Thursday night, when torrential rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to rise by more than 26 feet (8 metres) in just 45 minutes. Entire communities were inundated, roads washed out, and hundreds of people trapped in rapidly rising waters.

Among the worst-affected areas is Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp along the riverbank, where over 750 children were staying. State officials confirmed that dozens of children were rescued, but at least 20 remain missing, prompting a large-scale air and ground rescue operation.

Some of the victims of the floods were children, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick confirmed during a press conference. “It’s a heartbreaking situation,” he said, noting that multiple helicopters and emergency crews were working around the clock to search for survivors.

Federal and State Response

Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster for affected counties on Friday morning, activating additional state resources and support personnel. President Trump’s administration has reportedly deployed Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) teams, and the US Coast Guard has joined state and local efforts.

A video posted by Governor Abbott on social media showed a dramatic helicopter rescue of a flood victim clinging to the top of a tree, with floodwaters raging below. “Air rescue missions like this are being conducted around the clock. We will not stop until everyone is accounted for,” the governor said.

More than 500 emergency personnel, supported by 14 helicopters, are currently deployed across the region. Over 230 individuals have been rescued so far, with 167 evacuations carried out by air, according to Texas military officials.

Climate Concerns and Warnings

Experts have warned that the intensity and frequency of such flash floods are being worsened by climate change. Flash flooding typically occurs when the ground is unable to absorb large volumes of water in a short period — a phenomenon becoming more common due to extreme weather events.

“This is the most dangerous river valley in the United States,” said Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly. “We have floods regularly, but nothing like this. We had no advance warning of this one.”

Meteorologists have since issued flood warnings for the wider region, urging those near rivers or low-lying areas to seek higher ground. Officials also cautioned residents to stay away from affected areas, with many roads impassable and further rainfall expected.

Public safety director Freeman Martin warned that another wave of storms could strike other parts of Texas in the coming days, potentially worsening the already dire situation. “This is not going to end today,” he said.

A State in Mourning

The disaster has plunged the state of Texas into mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the country for those who lost their lives. Schools, churches, and community centres have opened their doors to shelter the displaced, while volunteer groups have mobilised to provide food, blankets, and essential supplies.

As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on accounting for the missing and ensuring the safety of those still stranded. President Trump reiterated his support, saying: “We will provide all the help Texas needs. This country stands with the families and communities affected by this tragedy.”