Abbott Declares Emergency as Floods Hammer Houston Counties

Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency in several Texas counties due to severe flooding from recent storms, echoing federal actions for earlier 2025 disasters. The move follows President Donald Trump's July 6, 2025, approval of FEMA-4879-DR for severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding starting July 2, 2025, in counties including Burnet, Kerr, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis, and Williamson. Houston-area counties like Harris, Liberty, and Montgomery, still reeling from 2024's deadly derecho and floods that killed several and caused widespread outages, face renewed threats to public safety.[2][3][8] The latest flooding compounds damage from spring 2024 storms that struck from April 26 to June 5, prompting President Biden's May 17, 2024, major disaster declaration under FEMA-4781 for 35 counties, later expanded to include Dallas, Austin, and others. In Houston, the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance launched a recovery fund on May 23, 2024, aiding low-income families in Harris, Montgomery, and Waller counties with home repairs and emergency aid; FEMA aid deadlines extended to August 15, 2024.[4][5][8] Current emergencies target similar vulnerabilities, with Abbott's proclamation unlocking state resources for evacuations and infrastructure protection.[1] Local officials in Houston and surrounding areas report road closures, power disruptions, and rescues in flood-prone zones like Addicks and Barker Reservoirs. Residents in affected counties can apply for federal aid at DisasterAssistance.gov or 1-800-621-3362, as emphasized by Sen. Ted Cruz's office. With forecasts predicting additional rainfall into late April 2026, emergency management urges checking 211texas.org for shelters and updates, prioritizing safety in this storm-weary state.[3][4]