State And Federal Declarations Clear Way For FEMA Money For Texas Flood Victims

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Texas has been granted a federal disaster declaration following days of severe flooding that have damaged communities across a wide stretch of the state. Gov. Greg Abbott formally requested the declaration on July 17 after touring hard‑hit Uvalde County, and the White House approved the request the next day, authorizing FEMA to coordinate federal relief efforts.

Abbott met with state and local officials at the SSGT Willie de Leon Civic Center, where he received updates on flood conditions, rescue operations, and ongoing recovery work. He said the Uvalde region “was hit very hard, but its residents are strong and resilient,” and emphasized that the declaration will help bring federal relief to 28 counties. He noted that additional counties may be added as assessments continue.

State officials reported that more than 2,700 personnel and 1,500 vehicles, aircraft, and other assets have been deployed across Texas since the flooding began on July 12. Emergency crews have rescued more than 270 people from dangerous conditions. Abbott warned that more severe weather and additional flooding remain possible, urging residents in Uvalde, Zavala, Dimmit, Sutton, and Crockett counties to stay alert and follow guidance from emergency officials.

On July 18, FEMA announced that President Donald Trump authorized the federal disaster declaration, directing the agency to mobilize resources to protect life and property and reduce the threat of further catastrophe. The declaration covers Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Blanco, Brewster, Comal, Crockett, Dimmit, Edwards, Frio, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Kinney, La Salle, Mason, Maverick, Medina, Menard, Real, Schleicher, Sutton, Terrell, Uvalde, Val Verde, Wilson, and Zavala counties.

Under the declaration, FEMA is empowered to identify and deploy equipment and resources as needed. Emergency protective measures—limited to direct federal assistance—will be funded at a 75% federal cost share. Roland W. Jackson has been appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer for the response. FEMA noted that additional designations may be made if requested by the state and supported by further damage assessments.

State agencies continue distributing supplies, coordinating with local governments, and assisting residents with reporting damage. Texans are encouraged to document and report flood impacts at Disaster.Texas.Gov. Abbott reiterated standard safety guidance, urging people to monitor weather alerts, make emergency plans, listen to emergency officials, and avoid driving through flooded roadways.