Greg Abbott said at a Tuesday afternoon news conference that 161 people remain missing after severe flooding in Central Texas during Independence Day weekend.
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After the July 4th holiday flooding in Central Texas, many of the missing people had no lodging records, hindering search operations. Governor Greg Abbott announced at a news event Tuesday afternoon that 161 people are missing, many of whom were likely in vacation homes, short-term rentals, or informal accommodations in the Texas Hill Country when the floodwaters hit.
“We don’t have a paper trail to follow,” Abbott added. “That is making it harder to determine who is missing and who may have returned home without telling anyone.”
The governor's report followed an airborne reconnaissance of the hardest-hit areas, where torrential rain converted creeks into lethal torrents—massive damage to communications infrastructure, autos, and structures. At least 100 people have died, and local officials worry the number may climb.
Search-and-rescue teams, medics, and engineers from across the state work around the clock. Helicopters, watercraft, and drones scan roadless areas. Volunteers have distributed food, supplies, and support services to displaced individuals in shelters.
Abbott emphasized the importance of patience and coordination during recuperation. He remarked, “This is one of the largest natural disasters our state has faced recently.” “We prioritize finding every missing person and bringing closure to their families.”
To focus the search and direct resources, officials urge anyone who visited the area during the holiday weekend to report in with authorities.
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