Kerrville, Texas, July 30, 2025
News Summary
Kerrville, Texas, experienced severe flooding after unexpected rainfall on July 3, prompting scrutiny of local emergency management practices. Mayor Joe Herring’s absence from a crucial TDEM briefing raised questions about preparedness. The city is now working to address flood response strategies as new coordination efforts begin following the event, which highlighted the need for effective real-time communication during emergencies.
Kerrville, Texas faced significant flooding following an unanticipated weather event on July 3, causing local governance and emergency response efforts to come under scrutiny. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) organized a crucial Zoom call that day intended to equip state and local leaders with updated weather forecasts and preparedness tips. Despite the importance of this meeting, Mayor Joe Herring Jr. of Kerrville did not attend, raising questions about local emergency management practices during the disaster.
The TDEM had sent out an invitation email highlighting the need for “real-time, high-level information” to hundreds of local and state leaders the evening before the call. A second email containing a slide deck with essential information was sent just 30 minutes prior to the meeting. Despite these reminders, Mayor Herring was absent among the over 468 participants who logged in for the briefing.
The Chief of TDEM, Nim Kidd, noted that while the attendance count included various individuals logged in from single phone lines, it remains unverified whether any Kerr County officials participated in the meeting. A request has been made to obtain the complete login and invitation list to clarify this matter.
Local officials, including the mayor, hold the responsibility of making critical evacuation decisions during emergencies. However, during the recent flooding event, Mayor Herring signed a disaster declaration without documented plans for evacuating the affected population. This absence of a clear response plan has amplified criticism of the city’s emergency management protocols.
Forecasts prior to the flooding event had predicted much lower rainfall, with estimates of only 1 to 1.5 inches, and isolated areas possibly receiving up to 2 inches. The intensity of the rainfall exceeded these predictions significantly, contributing to the flooding that impacted Kerrville. This unexpected weather event and the ensuing flooding have raised concerns about the city’s preparedness for similar future occurrences.
Compounding the situation, Jerremy Hughes, Kerrville’s emergency management coordinator, had filed retirement paperwork just two days before the flood and was not present for the TDEM meeting. Casey Goodman has since been appointed as the city’s new emergency management coordinator, stepping into a role that has become increasingly critical in light of the recent disaster.
The City of Kerrville announced that Mayor Herring plans to address questions regarding flood preparedness during an upcoming legislative session in Kerrville. The session aims to provide a platform for local officials to discuss the challenges faced during the flood and outline future emergency management strategies.
Key Details of the Flooding Incident
- Event Date: July 3
- TDEM Zoom Call: Held same day for local leaders, with the mayor absent
- Weather Forecast Predictions: Incorrectly forecasted rainfall amounts contributed to the disaster
- Emergency Management Changes: New coordinator appointed just after the event
Background and Future Directions
The critical nature of real-time communication during emergencies cannot be overstated, as demonstrated by the aftermath of Kerrville’s flooding. The TDEM’s efforts to mobilize local officials with essential information exemplify the proactive measures that are often necessary to mitigate disaster effects. As Kerrville city officials regroup and refine their emergency plans, the community remains vigilant in the face of future potential threats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the flooding in Kerrville on July 3?
The flooding was primarily caused by significantly higher rainfall than initially forecasted, which exceeded predictions of 1 to 1.5 inches.
Why was Mayor Joe Herring absent from the TDEM briefing?
Though a follow-up email was sent just prior to the meeting, Mayor Herring did not attend the call, and it is not clear whether any Kerr County officials participated.
What has the city planned to address flood preparedness after the event?
Mayor Herring plans to discuss flood preparedness questions at an upcoming legislative session in Kerrville.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Warning Issued for Flood Victims in Kerrville, Texas
Texas Republicans Push for Controversial Redistricting
Kerrville City Leaders Confront July 4 Flooding Crisis
San Antonio Food Bank Enhances Support After Texas Floods
San Antonio Residents Demand Better Flood Response After Tragedy
Kerrville City Council Considers Property Tax Increase Amid Flood Recovery
Texas Hill Country Community Fundraises $60 Million for Flood Relief
Severe Flooding in Texas Hill Country Leaves 24 Dead
H-E-B Donates $200,000 for Flood Recovery in Texas Hill Country
Texas Legislature Faces Tension Over Flood Relief and Redistricting Priorities
Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: Evening Briefing San Antonio July 29
- Wikipedia: Kerrville
- Express News: South Texas High Pressure
- Google Search: Kerrville Texas flooding
- Fox San Antonio: Weather Briefing Before July 4 Floods
- Google Scholar: Emergency Management Kerrville
- The Weather Channel: San Antonio, TX Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Antonio Weather
- KSAT: San Antonio Weather Forecast
- Google News: Texas Flood Response
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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