Trump signs disaster declaration as Texas Floods Kill 78

Rescuers in Texas were racing against time on Sunday to locate dozens of missing individuals, including children, as devastating flash floods claimed at least 78 lives. Texas Public Safety Chief Freeman Martin warned that the death toll is likely to rise further. Authorities have confirmed that 41 people are still unaccounted for.

The floods struck during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, catching many off guard as months' worth of rain fell within just a few hours.

The National Weather Service has issued warnings of additional flash floods due to slow-moving thunderstorms over already saturated ground in central Texas.

As public concern grew over the lack of timely warnings and delayed evacuations in the flood-hit areas—popular with campers—U.S. President Donald Trump called the situation a “Biden setup.”

Despite ongoing criticism over his administration’s handling of weather forecasting and emergency response, President Trump is scheduled to visit Texas on Friday.

He has also signed a major disaster declaration, unlocking federal resources for the state. On the social media platform Truth Social, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the aim is to rapidly support first responders, as families grapple with a devastating tragedy that has left many dead and others still missing.