Homeland Security Chief Advocates for Overhaul of Weather Alert System Amidst Flood Tragedy
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has criticized the outdated communication system used to alert citizens about severe weather events, pledging that the administration under Trump intends to improve the technology.
During a press conference alongside Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Noem addressed concerns about the delayed alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) regarding heavy rainfall and subsequent flash flooding, noting that the current issues stem from previous protocols.
"The unpredictability of weather events is significant," Noem stated. "However, the National Weather Service has had its successes and shortcomings over the years, and there have been instances where we wished for better warning times and notifications."
Noem emphasized the urgent need for modernization, stating, “The ancient system has persisted under federal oversight for far too long, and reforms are currently underway.”
As the situation evolved, the death toll rose to 43 by Saturday evening, comprising 28 adults and 15 children who succumbed to the inundation.
Efforts continue to identify the remains of three children and five adults among the deceased.
Around 1:18 p.m. on July 3, residents received warnings regarding “moderate” storm conditions. The NWS expressed sorrow over the tragic losses in Kerr County, indicating that flash flood warnings were initially issued on the night of July 3, followed by additional alerts the morning of July 4.
Tom Fahy, legislative director for the National Weather Service Employees Organization, stated that local offices had the necessary staffing and had provided timely forecasts and warnings prior to the storm.
Governor Abbott asserted that the search for those unaccounted for would persist until every missing Texan is located.
“We will not cease our efforts until all individuals are found,” Abbott declared. “When Texas encounters adversity, we stand united. That’s the Texan spirit, and it will remain our focus until we achieve our goal.”
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