A new wave of heavy rainfall and river flooding in central Texas left dozens in need of rescue, and temporarily halted emergency responders’ search for victims, which has been ongoing since the July 4 flooding event. A number of the same areas were affected, as well as new flooding in Lampasas, Schleicher, and San Saba Counties.
At least 132 people were killed in the July 4 flooding event, among them dozens of children. Officials reported that more than 850 people needed to be rescued from danger. Search and rescue teams, public health officials, and community health providers have been working to meet emergent health needs, including medical triage and mental health support. Harsh terrain and unpredictable weather conditions have made their work more difficult and more dangerous.
In response, Direct Relief is granting an initial $50,000 in emergency funding to search and rescue organizations, including TEXSAR and Texas EquuSearch, and is fulfilling requests for medical assistance, including field medic packs, for first responders in flood-impacted communities.
Direct Relief supports clinics and health centers throughout Texas on an ongoing basis and has done so for decades. Since July 4, Direct Relief has delivered more than $900,000 worth of medical aid—totaling 8,490 lbs.—to healthcare providers across Texas. Shipments include insulin, oral diabetes medications, thyroid treatments, blood thinners, antidepressants, and other treatments for chronic conditions. Additional resources such as pain relievers, allergy eye drops, and infant formula were also included. This support will continue well beyond the current emergency.
Frontera Healthcare Network, a community health center and Direct Relief partner, is providing medical supplies to the Center Point Volunteer Fire Department’s triage point, as well as offering behavioral health support to first responders.
Direct Relief has staff in Texas, and continues to collaborate with local healthcare providers, fire departments, search and rescue teams, and government agencies, and assess current and emerging healthcare needs.
Flooding and other extreme weather events can take a severe toll on community health, increasing the likelihood of everything from infectious diseases like norovirus (as people congregate in shelters) to mental health conditions, which affect survivors, responders, and community members alike.
Direct Relief frequently provides both emergent and long-term support to communities recovering from extreme weather events in Texas, throughout the Gulf Coast, and worldwide. The organization will continue to collaborate with responding partners in Texas in coming days.
