Texas Flash Floods Kill 78, Officials Criticize Weather Warnings, Staffing Cuts

The devastating flash floods in Texas Hill Country have claimed at least 78 lives, including many children, with many still missing, notably from Camp Mystic summer camp. Criticism has intensified against Texas officials and the National Weather Service (NWS) for inadequate warnings and emergency preparedness, with some officials stating the rainfall was severely underestimated and emergency alerts came too late. Staffing cuts and early retirements at NWS offices, partly linked to policies during President Trump's administration, have been cited as factors that impaired timely flood warnings and coordination. Texas local authorities also faced scrutiny for not investing in modern flood-alert systems, citing taxpayer resistance. The disaster highlights the increased severity of storms due to climate change, with experts noting a 25% rise in extreme rainfall events in the region since 1960. Calls for robust public investment in science, infrastructure, and climate action have been made to better protect communities from such lethal natural disasters in the future.