'Deep impact phase' of searching: More than 170 missing after Texas flood

Disaster Overview - Over 170 people are still missing after deadly flooding in Texas, with at least 120 fatalities across six counties [1] - The search effort involves approximately 2100 first responders from across Texas and other states, utilizing air, water, and land resources, including cadaver dogs [6][7] - The focus is shifting to a "deep impact phase" as water recedes, allowing teams to search under debris [8] Camp Mystic Tragedy - Five campers and one counselor remain missing from Camp Mystic [1][13] - 165 young ladies were rescued from Camp Mystic, while the number of missing is now down to six [17] - Camp Mystic's disaster plan, including an evacuation plan, was approved just two days before the flooding [18] Accountability and Warning Systems - Questions are raised about the timing of emergency officials' awareness of the flooding and alerts to citizens [9] - The county's flood warning system was described as antiquated back in 2016, and officials discussed warning systems more than two dozen times since then [4] - There are concerns that the state of Texas failed by allowing a children's camp to be built in a dangerous flood zone [25] - A nearby camp survived because a staffer happened to be awake and alerted others, highlighting the need for a better warning system [28] Political and Legislative Response - A special session of the state legislature will address the flooding incident, focusing on legislation for better alert systems, infrastructure improvements, and relief funding [11] - Governor Abbott was criticized for dismissing questions about accountability as "the talk of losers" [30] - There are accusations that politicians in Texas ignored warnings about the antiquated flood system for a decade [22][24]