As the death toll rises and a dozen others remain missing following deadly flash floods in the Texas Hill Country, Florida is extending its assistance and sending its heartfelt condolences to all affected by the natural disaster.
As of Sunday evening, CBS News reported that at least 81 people were killed and 41 more were missing after heavy rain caused flash flooding in Central Texas, with water rescues taking place along the Guadalupe River, which rose rapidly early Friday morning to the height of a two-story structure.
Officials said a dozen individuals are still missing from Camp Mystic, a children’s summer camp in Kerr County, some 90 miles northwest of San Antonio.
As the Lone Star State struggles to rescue and recover, the Sunshine State has stepped forward to help.
On Sunday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said on X that he has instructed the Florida Division of Emergency Management to deploy three swift water rescue teams under an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) to aid with response and recovery.
“We’re standing by to lend more help as requested. We’re praying for all of those impacted and stand ready to help in any way that we can,” DeSantis said.
President Donald Trump approved a massive disaster designation for Kerr County, and Texas Governor Greg Abbott made his first visit to the summer camp site.
Trump said that his administration is working closely with state and local officials in Texas after devastating flooding killed at least 53 people and left dozens more missing.
He also confirmed that his Homeland Security chief is heading to the state to provide in-person assistance.
“The Trump Administration is working with State and Local Officials on the ground in Texas in response to the tragic flooding that took place yesterday. Our Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, will be there shortly. Melania and I are praying for all of the families impacted by this horrible tragedy. Our Brave First Responders are on site doing what they do best. GOD BLESS THE FAMILIES, AND GOD BLESS TEXAS,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Trump said on Sunday that he expects to travel to Texas on Friday to visit areas of the state hardest hit by the catastrophic flash flooding.
