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10h ago

'Act of God' Remark Fuels Scrutiny of Weather and FEMA Funding After Central Texas Floods

Underfunded warning systems, critics say, combined with 'act of God' insurance exclusions, have compounded the tragedy.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt speaks as reporters raise their hands to ask questions during a press briefing at the White House, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Washington. AP/PTI(AP07_08_2025_000004A)
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Overview

  • Karoline Leavitt described the devastating flash floods as an 'act of God,' rejecting administration responsibility despite early and consistent warnings.
  • Leavitt’s remark has reignited criticism that Trump-era budget cuts left the National Weather Service understaffed and FEMA operating on a shoestring, yet no new federal funding measures have been proposed.
  • Areas of Central Texas received four months’ worth of rain in just hours, causing the Guadalupe River to overflow and trigger unprecedented flash flooding.
  • Floodwaters claimed over 100 lives, including at least 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic in Kerr County.
  • Observers warn that typical insurance policies exclude 'act of God' claims, meaning many victims may struggle to recover losses.