Kerr County, Texas – 11 July 2025
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived in Kerr County, Texas, today to witness the devastation caused by catastrophic flooding that has claimed at least 129 lives across the state. The couple toured the worst-hit areas, including the riverside community of Kerrville and the historic Camp Mystic, where 27 young girls tragically lost their lives.
Speaking at a roundtable with emergency responders and local officials, President Trump described the scene as “hard to believe” and likened the Guadalupe River to “a little narrow river that becomes a monster.” He added, “I’ve seen hurricanes, tornadoes… but I’ve never seen anything like this. This is a bad one.”
The First Lady, visibly moved, shared her condolences: “My deepest sympathy to all of the parents who lost beautiful young souls. We are grieving with you; our nation is grieving with you.” She wore a bracelet gifted by survivors from Camp Mystic in honour of the children lost and promised to return to support the community.
The President has signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County and pledged swift federal assistance. Over 700 FEMA personnel have been deployed, alongside Coast Guard and Border Patrol units. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed additional counties will now receive disaster unemployment support.
Despite previous statements about phasing out FEMA, the President struck a sombre tone, focusing on unity and recovery. “As a nation, we mourn for every single life that was swept away in the flood,” he said.
The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund has raised over $30 million to aid recovery efforts. A crisis support line has also been launched to provide mental health services to survivors and first responders.
The search continues for more than 170 people still missing statewide. Flags across Texas have been lowered in remembrance of the lives lost.
