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Why was Texas flood alert not acted on? Ex-NOAA official discusses the response
MSNBCยท2025-07-09 15:20

Weather Events & Disaster Trends - The frequency of severe weather events, like flash floods, has increased in recent years [1][2][9][12] - Billion-dollar disasters have risen from approximately 3-4 per year 20-30 years ago to 28 last year [2] - Flood deaths in the US have increased in recent years [9] - Extreme weather events are becoming more intense and frequent, according to climate scientists [9] Communication & Warning Systems - A critical question is why the warning issued at 1:14 AM, approximately 3 hours before the flood, was not received or acted upon by some individuals and officials [6][7] - Redundant alert systems, such as NOAA weather radios in addition to cell phones, are crucial [6] - The lack of alert reception by key community figures raises concerns about the overall emergency response [7] Resource & Staffing Concerns - Proposed budget cuts of over $2 billion to NOAA by President Trump are a concern [9] - Limited staffing and reductions in staffing may stretch the weather service system, potentially degrading services [12] - The weather coordination meteorologist position in the San Antonio weather forecast office, responsible for communication with emergency management, was vacant [8] - Weather service employees are dedicated but feel pressured due to staffing limitations [11]