Colorado Governor Jared Polis criticized President Trump for denying disaster declarations after wildfires and flooding, accusing him of playing political games, while the White House defended the decisions as careful and non-politicized.
Colorado officials, including Governor Polis and Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper, criticized President Trump for denying federal disaster declarations for major wildfires and flooding, which they argue hampers recovery efforts and economic stability in the region. The denial has sparked political backlash and plans to appeal the decision.
Severe flooding caused by Typhoon Halong has devastated remote villages in Alaska, displacing over 2,000 residents who may not return home for at least 18 months, prompting federal disaster aid requests and large-scale evacuations to Anchorage.
Alaska's Juneau area faces an imminent threat of catastrophic flooding due to a glacier lake outburst from Suicide Basin, prompting the governor to declare a disaster as the basin's water levels threaten to release, potentially causing severe flooding and damage for the third consecutive year.
Over 100 people, including 28 children, have died in severe flooding in central Texas, with rescue efforts ongoing and the death toll expected to rise. The White House has rejected blame on President Trump, emphasizing proper weather alerts and response efforts. The disaster has prompted federal and state aid, but questions remain about the evacuation of summer camps and the impact of federal funding cuts on weather forecasting capabilities.
Severe flash flooding in Central Texas has resulted in at least 68 deaths, including 28 children, with ongoing search and rescue efforts at Camp Mystic and surrounding areas, as authorities coordinate federal and local responses amid continued heavy rainfall.
At least 68 people, including 21 children, have died in central Texas flash floods, with rescue efforts ongoing for missing campers. President Trump signed a disaster declaration, and officials criticized weather prediction and preparedness efforts amid ongoing heavy rains and flood risks. The floods have raised questions about early warning systems and evacuation procedures for vulnerable sites like summer camps.
At least 59 people, including 21 children, have died in central Texas flash floods, with ongoing search efforts for missing campers from Camp Mystic. President Trump signed a major disaster declaration, amid concerns over weather prediction and emergency preparedness, as heavy rains continue to threaten the region.
President Biden has declared parts of southern New Mexico a major disaster area due to two deadly wildfires, unlocking federal aid and resources for recovery efforts. The fires have destroyed hundreds of homes, forced thousands to evacuate, and remain uncontained. The declaration will assist with temporary housing, low-cost loans, and other emergency work. The situation is exacerbated by the threat of flooding and lightning, with firefighters working tirelessly to control the blaze.
Governor Reynolds has declared a disaster in Cherokee County, Iowa, due to an outbreak of the highly transmittable avian influenza (H5N1). The declaration mobilizes state resources for containment and waives certain regulations for commercial vehicles. The outbreak does not pose an immediate public health risk, and poultry products remain safe to eat.
The City of Temple, Texas, has issued a Disaster Declaration following a destructive tornado that hit Central Texas. First responders are prioritizing life-saving calls, and residents are advised to stay home due to dangerous road conditions. No life-threatening injuries or fatalities have been reported. A Temple Recovery Taskforce has been established to connect affected residents with relief services. Several city facilities and schools are closed, and a press conference is scheduled for May 23, 2024.
Travis County in Texas has issued a disaster declaration in anticipation of the total solar eclipse on April 8, expecting large crowds and increased traffic. The declaration aims to help first responders manage the situation and ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Private property owners hosting gatherings with more than 50 people to watch the eclipse are required to notify the county. Residents are advised to plan ahead for traffic congestion, reschedule non-urgent appointments, and watch the eclipse at home or near their homes.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry issued a disaster declaration for the state's crawfish industry due to extreme weather and drought, causing a shortage of the crustaceans. The state, known for its crawfish cuisine, faces potential losses of nearly $140 million for this year's harvest season. Severe drought and saltwater intrusion have disrupted crawfish populations, impacting farmers and the economy. The shortage has also affected cultural events like Mardi Gras, prompting a request for federal relief.
The Texas Panhandle is battling several large wildfires, including the largest blaze in state history, with over a million acres burned in Texas and 25,000 acres in Oklahoma. At least two people have died, and the governor has declared a disaster in 60 counties. The wildfires have caused extensive damage to properties, including the historic Turkey Track Ranch. While some relief is expected with cooler temperatures and a chance of rain and snow, unseasonably warm and windy weather is forecast to return, posing a continued threat.
"Devastating" wildfires in Texas have led to a disaster declaration for 60 counties and evacuation orders in parts of the Texas Panhandle. The Pantex Nuclear Weapons Plant in Amarillo has evacuated nonessential personnel as a precaution, and wildfires have also prompted hospital and nursing home evacuations in northwestern Oklahoma. The fires, fueled by warm, dry, and windy conditions, have damaged over 40 houses in Fritch and led to mandatory and voluntary evacuations in several towns and communities. Gov. Greg Abbott warned that the wildfires could worsen due to high temperatures and windy conditions, urging Texans to take precautions to stay safe.