Staff Reports
The heroic efforts of Texas first responders shone through the devastating floods that struck on Independence Day. Drone footage captured by San Angelo police shows brave rescuers plucking stranded residents from raging floodwaters, with over 100 water rescues performed in the city alone. These local heroes risked their lives while federal assistance lagged behind the immediate crisis.
San Angelo police released gripping aerial videos showing officers navigating submerged neighborhoods in boats and helicopters. Rescuers battled rapidly rising waters that swallowed entire streets within minutes. This frontline response demonstrates how local authorities protect citizens when disaster strikes, not distant bureaucracies.
Our community rallied immediately while waiting for federal aid. The State of Texas declared a disaster for Tom Green County, but Washington still hasn’t acted days later. Hardworking Texans are now documenting damage through iSTAT forms themselves because the federal government failed to declare an emergency.
Farmers and ranchers face devastating livestock losses with carcasses littering fields. Local animal services worked tirelessly to handle deceased animals while Concho Valley PAWS provided emergency pet boarding. This is Texas taking care of Texas while Washington sleeps.
The death toll keeps climbing with at least 120 lives lost statewide, including 96 in Kerr County alone. Heartbreakingly, over 20 children went missing at a summer camp near Hunt when the Guadalupe River surged 29 feet in under an hour. These tragedies hit hardworking families where it hurts most.
This historic disaster began when a vicious storm dumped 10-15 inches of rain on July 4th. Remnants of Tropical Storm Barry fueled the downpour that submerged Central Texas. Some areas saw four months of rain in just hours, proving nature’s fury can’t be controlled by government policies.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha faced tough questions about flood alerts amid the carnage. While officials did issue warnings, the sheer speed of the torrent overwhelmed systems. This tragedy exposes the limits of government preparedness compared to personal responsibility.
Through the devastation, the courage of San Angelo’s police, fire crews, and volunteers reminds us that real heroes wear uniforms, not suits. Their tireless work saved countless lives while distant politicians debated paperwork. Texans pull together when it matters most.
