BOERNE — President Donald Trump arrived Friday to tour the devastated Kerr County towns wiped out by the surging Guadalupe River on July 4.
Kerr and Kendall counties are two of four Texas counties Gov. Greg Abbott Thursday made eligible for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance program.
Meanwhile, more search-and-recovery operations are moving into Kendall County.
“Local, state and federal assets continue recovery efforts, moving east through Kendall County,” said Brady Constantine, director of the Kendall County Emergency Operations Center. “Expect heavy presence in areas along the river (between) FM 474 and FM 3351.”
Search-and-recovery teams, including cadaver dogs, remain active in the county’s stretch of the river.
Authorities said people need to stay away from, and out of, debris piles. “Do not sift or move debris piles,” Constantine said, as debris is being assessed and removed methodically by coordinated teams searching for any remains.
“Please give them space and allow them to do their critical work,” Constantine said. “Do not sift or move debris piles.”
The number of recoveries in Kendall County remains at eight, none of which are Kendall County residents, Constantine said. Authorities said they have no reports of missing people in Kendall County.
Officials are asking riverfront property owners to ensure emergency responders have access to their land. “This access is vital to search and recovery efforts,” he said.
In addition, a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the entire stretch of the Guadalupe, grounding all privately owned and operated drones. Drones operated by law enforcement officials are still in use.
Constantine acknowledged the large number of calls received from residents wanting to volunteer or donate equipment. Additionally, the Kendall County Fire Department has posted Amazon Wish Lists. Donors can follow their Facebook pages for the most up-to-date needs and donation guidance.
“Our federal, state and local teams are back at it again this morning. They’re tired. They’re exhausted. But they continue to show up, just as they have since early Friday morning,” Constantine said Thursday. “With compassion, respect and unwavering dignity, they are here for every family still waiting, still searching, and still hoping for answers.
The greatest need for hands-on help, he said, will come after the state and federal teams complete their search missions and the clean-up and restoration phases can begin in earnest.
“We know many of you have called, messaged or emailed. While we may not respond immediately, we see you and we thank you,” the release stated. “Our top priority right now is supporting the crews in the field, and your patience means everything.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance Program includes assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities. Additional counties may be added as updated information becomes available.
On Sunday, President Trump approved Abbott’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County after devastating flooding that began last week. The approval allows Kerr County residents who suffered damage to their homes or businesses to apply for funding to help cover the cost of repair and recovery expenses.
The declaration also authorizes the U.S. Small Business Administration to administer its Disaster Loan Program for physical and economic loss.
Comment
Comments