Introduction to the Disaster
Texas lawmakers failed to pass a bill that would have improved local disaster warning systems this year. The devastating floods that swept through Central Texas early Friday morning have left a lasting impression on state Rep. Wes Virdell, who has been out with first responders in Kerr County searching for victims and survivors.
The Devastating Floods
The floods have resulted in the loss of at least 79 lives, with 68 of those deaths occurring in Kerr County. Many of the victims were camping or attending a private summer camp along the Guadalupe River. Virdell, a Hill Country native, made his way to Kerrville early Friday after seeing news that the rains had raised the Guadalupe River more than two feet, swamping its banks in Hunt and other river communities.
The Failed Bill
The measure, House Bill 13, would have created a new government council to establish an emergency response plan and administer a grant program for counties to buy new emergency communication equipment and build new infrastructure like radio towers. The bill also called for the plan to include the use of outdoor warning sirens and develop new emergency alert systems. Virdell voted against the bill, but now says that in hindsight, his vote would probably be different.
The Need for Better Warning Systems
The flooding in Kerr County has highlighted the need for better warning systems in rural areas. The county lacks a siren system to alert residents of tornadoes, and the cost of implementing such a system would fall on local taxpayers. A flash flood watch was issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday afternoon, and a flash flood warning was issued at 1:14 a.m. Friday. However, the alerts likely went unheeded by many, as they were issued while most residents and visitors were asleep.
The Response to the Disaster
The collaboration between local responders and those coming in from around the state has been "amazing," according to Virdell. The focus is currently on locating more victims and helping residents. Talk of warning systems and how to improve communications will eventually happen, but for now, the focus needs to be on the immediate community.
The Role of the Government
Gov. Greg Abbott has left the door open to legislation aimed at improving emergency warning systems, but stopped short of saying he would put it on the agenda for lawmakers to consider during the special session scheduled to begin July 21. The government has made investments in disaster response, including $547 million in funding for disaster response aircraft, regional operation facilities, ambulances for rural counties, and emergency response drone technology.
Conclusion
The devastating floods in Central Texas have highlighted the need for better disaster warning systems and emergency communication equipment. While the failed bill would not have prevented the flooding, it could have improved the response to the disaster. The focus now needs to be on supporting the affected communities and finding ways to improve disaster preparedness and response in the future. The government and lawmakers must work together to find solutions to these issues and ensure that Texas is better equipped to handle natural disasters.
