**Flash Flood Catastrophe in Kerr County: Officials Under Fire for Emergency Response Failures**

Kerr County, Texas, has been thrust into a nightmare as flash floods ravage the region, claiming at least 120 lives and leaving communities in shock and grief. The aftermath of this devastating natural disaster has raised urgent questions about the preparedness and response of state and local officials.

Just days before the flood struck, Governor Greg Abbott claimed that “assets, resources, and personnel” were deployed to safeguard communities. However, Kerrville’s mayor has publicly stated he saw no evidence of this support, igniting a firestorm of criticism and disbelief. As the floodwaters surged, residents were left scrambling for safety, with many unaware of the impending danger.

Reports indicate that the National Weather Service issued crucial alerts in the early hours of July 4, but many residents were asleep, leaving them vulnerable to the rapidly rising waters. The first alert, sent at 1:14 a.m., warned of the potential for severe flooding, but by the time the second alert was dispatched at 4:30 a.m., it was too late for many to evacuate.

As families mourn their losses, the community is demanding accountability and clarity on the emergency systems in place. Why were warning sirens not activated? Were the resources promised by the state effectively deployed? These pressing questions loom large as survivors and victims’ families seek answers amid their grief.

Looking ahead, Texas lawmakers are set to convene for a special session on July 21, where discussions on flood warning systems and emergency communications will take center stage. The urgency to address these failures is palpable, as residents fear that without systemic changes, future tragedies are inevitable.

The clock is ticking for officials to act decisively. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the spotlight remains on those in power to ensure that such a catastrophe never happens again. The time for answers is now.