Death toll from "Texas floods" rises to 82

SadaNews - Official sources in the United States reported on Monday that the death toll from the floods that struck Texas has risen to 82.

According to information published by officials in Kerr County, Texas, and reported by the Associated Press, the heavy rains that fell on July 4 caused devastating floods, increasing the death toll to 82.

The last reported toll by authorities on Sunday was 67 dead.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha stated in press remarks that the waters of the "Guadalupe" River rose abruptly by 8 meters last Friday due to heavy rains, which led to the washing away of one of the camps.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced in a statement on Sunday that 41 people are missing across the state, suggesting that the actual number may be higher.

Local authorities also announced that they will continue their efforts until all the missing are found.

Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump declared a "major disaster" in Texas, where the affected county is located, and issued an official decree to facilitate federal aid access.

It is worth mentioning that the "Guadalupe" River in Kerr County, south Texas, overflowed due to heavy and sudden rains on July 4, resulting in widespread destruction.

Governor Greg Abbott announced through his account on the "X" platform that they have mobilized all available resources to deal with the aftermath of the floods, while local authorities reported that about 50,000 people are in the disaster area, with rescue operations still ongoing.

On the other hand, local Republican officials criticized the National Weather Service, blaming it for failing to issue the necessary warnings and for not providing accurate forecasts before the tragedy occurred, amidst budget cuts imposed as part of President Trump's austerity policies.