Why did flooding take Texas by surprise?
The Texas and national press are raising numerous questions following the deadly floods in the region of the country most exposed to these events. The lack of action by local authorities is being singled out. As for Donald Trump's budget cuts, while they may not be directly responsible, they risk weakening the country in the future.
“Our hearts are torn,” the Houston Chronicle wrote in an editorial after the July 4th flash floods that killed more than 100 people in Texas, including children at the popular Camp Mystic summer camp. “ At the same time, questions pile up like trees uprooted and homes swept away by the raging waters,” the Texas daily continued.
“Why wasn't more done to prevent this tragedy? Why weren't the children moved to higher ground? Was the National Weather Service slowed by budget cuts and layoffs? Did local and state officials do enough to alert people in danger and mobilize emergency workers? Did residents, visitors, and camp directors receive alerts on their phones? Why didn't county leaders, in the middle of 'flash flood alley,' invest in outdoor sirens like other communities particularly prone to disasters?”
Questions fueled by the “scale of the disaster – and the fact that major flooding episodes are common in this part of Texas,” confirms The Texas Tribune . “Local and Texas authorities o
Courrier International
