News Summary
Heavy flooding in Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend has claimed at least 15 lives and left many missing. Rescue efforts are ongoing, particularly in Travis County where several individuals have drowned. Local restaurants are stepping up to aid recovery efforts, donating profits and providing meals for affected families. The community shows resilience amidst criticism over the fire department’s response. With at least 104 casualties reported, recovery remains a top priority as local authorities work to support those impacted by this disaster.
Austin, Texas – Heavy flooding that struck Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend has left at least 15 people dead and many more missing, as local communities grapple with the crisis. As of July 9, rescue efforts are ongoing in Travis County, where seven individuals, including a 20-month-old boy, have drowned and 10 people are still unaccounted for. The catastrophic floods have been particularly devastating across Travis, Williamson, and Burnet counties, prompting local authorities to declare disasters in the affected areas.
The flooding has forced families out of their homes, caused extensive property damage, and disrupted businesses. In response to the crisis, numerous local restaurants in the Austin area have stepped up to contribute to relief efforts, pledging to donate 100% of profits to various recovery initiatives. Establishments like P. Terry’s Burger Stand are directing funds to the Austin Disaster Relief Network, while Veracruz All Natural is providing shelter and meals for flood victims in Kerrville and surrounding areas. Other restaurants, such as Moonshine Comfort & Cocktails and Hattie B’s, are contributing to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund and Central Texas Food Bank, respectively.
In addition to food donations, restaurants like Good Vibrations are offering mobile hot meals and assistance for carrying donations, while Junebug’s BBQ also contributes to the Kerr County Relief Fund. This wave of support from local businesses reflects a strong sense of community as residents seek to help those affected by the severe flooding.
Amid the ongoing crisis, controversy has emerged over the response of the Austin Fire Department. Fire Chief Joel G. Baker faced accusations of inadequately addressing requests for swift water rescue teams in the days leading up to the flooding. Chief Baker has stated that the decision was made to preserve resources for the city of Austin, denying that financial considerations influenced his judgment. The Austin Firefighters Association expressed concern, suggesting that the chief’s decisions could have led to a greater loss of life.
Mayor Kirk Watson expressed disappointment regarding the politicization of the situation, standing by the fire department’s actions during the emergency. A local disaster declaration was issued by Travis County on July 5 and was extended on July 9. Williamson County also declared a local disaster, confirming three fatalities, including a 22-year-old woman and a 64-year-old elderly person. In Burnet County, five deaths have been reported, with search efforts still underway for Fire Chief Michael Phillips, who was swept away while responding to a flooding call.
The total number of people dead or missing due to flooding across Texas has now reached at least 104, with at least 87 of those fatalities occurring in Kerr County and Kendall County. Recovery efforts continue, and local camps, including Camp Mystic, have reported that several campers and staff are still unaccounted for.
As Central Texas continues to respond to this natural disaster, the community remains resilient, demonstrating strength and solidarity through collective efforts in providing aid and support to those impacted by the floods. Many hope that, with continued determination and collaboration, recovery can begin soon, allowing individuals and families to rebuild their lives after this tragic event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
P. Terry’s Burger Stand Supports Flood Relief in Central Texas
Governor Abbott Calls Special Legislative Session for Flood Relief
Catastrophic Flooding Hits Central Texas
Controversy Erupts Over Austin Fire Chief’s Response to Kerrville Flooding
Flood Advisory Issued for Austin Area Amid Heavy Rain
Backlash Against Austin Fire Chief Over Flood Response Delay
Devastating Flash Floods Hit Central Texas
Texas Hill Country Devastated by Flooding
Central Texas Flooding Claims Lives and Triggers Search Efforts
Austin Cancels Fourth of July Fireworks Due to Severe Weather
Additional Resources
- New York Post: Austin Texas Fire Chief
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- KVUE: Central Texas Flood Victims Recovery
- Google Search: Texas Flood
- Fox 7 Austin: Texas Flooding Live Updates
- Google Scholar: Texas Flooding
- Statesman: How to Help Victims of Central Texas Floods
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Floods
- Weather.com: Austin Pets Alive Helping Displaced Animals
- Google News: Texas Disaster
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
