President Trump Visits Texas to Survey Flood Destruction

President Trump Visits Texas to Survey Flood Destruction
Capital Public Radio

President Donald Trump visited flood-ravaged Central Texas on July 11, 2025, to witness the aftermath of catastrophic flash flooding over the Fourth of July weekend. Accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, and Senator Ted Cruz, the president met with local officials and emergency responders in Kerrville, the area hardest hit by the disaster that has claimed over 120 lives.

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Presidential Visit to Kerrville

Presidential Visit to Kerrville
Capital Public Radio

One week after flash floods swept through Central Texas, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived in Kerrville to personally assess the devastation. The flash floods along the Guadalupe River inundated cities, mobile home parks, and summer camps, leaving a tragic death toll of 120, with 96 fatalities reported in Kerr County alone, including at least 36 children.

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On-Ground Engagements

On-Ground Engagements
Manny Ceneta/ Instagram

At Louise Hays Park, where the floodwaters wrecked a mobile concert stage, the president posed for photographs alongside emergency services personnel. The First Lady joined him as they spoke with Coast Guard teams and local responders actively involved in the rescue and relief operations.

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Air Force One Arrival

Air Force One Arrival
National Public Radio

The presidential delegation, including Senator Ted Cruz, arrived at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio before proceeding to Kerrville. Addressing supporters while leaving the White House earlier that day, President Trump emphasized the importance of directly meeting those affected and assisting recovery efforts.

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Disaster Declaration Extended

Disaster Declaration Extended
National Public Radio

During his visit, President Trump approved Governor Abbott’s request to extend the major disaster declaration beyond Kerr County. This decision made eight additional Texas counties eligible for crucial federal financial assistance to support ongoing recovery and rebuilding operations.

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Fourth of July Flood Impact

Fourth of July Flood Impact
National Public Radio

Beginning on July 4, 2025, heavy rains triggered severe flooding along the Guadalupe River. Residents watched helplessly as water levels rose, destroying homes and infrastructure. Rescue operations involved Boerne Search and Rescue teams and UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters conducting life-saving missions. As of July 11, 161 people remain missing, and the search continues.

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Witness to the Damage

Witness to the Damage
National Public Radio

Photos captured the President and First Lady walking alongside Governor Abbott and emergency officials, surveying flood-damaged areas. From the banks of the Guadalupe River to destroyed neighborhoods, the leaders received firsthand accounts from rescue teams and local families enduring unimaginable loss.