Texas Declares Disaster After Tropical Storm Bertha Causes Floods Killing Three

Texas faces severe flooding after tropical storm Bertha, with three fatalities reported as water surged across multiple communities. The storm intensified rainfalls, overwhelming local drainage systems and prompting widespread emergency alerts that urged residents to seek higher ground.

Bertha brought rain that pushed rivers beyond their banks, leading officials to declare a disaster in 59 counties, the largest multi‑county emergency response in recent state history. State authorities mobilized resources to address rising waters and protect vulnerable areas.

Counties along the Brazos and Colorado rivers reported roadways fully submerged and dozens of homes damaged, forcing many residents to evacuate to temporary shelters. Local officials coordinated shelter assignments and began damage assessments to prioritize recovery efforts.

Authorities are coordinating rescue operations, deploying National Guard units and Federal Emergency Management Agency teams to deliver immediate aid, while simultaneously assessing long‑term recovery needs and planning infrastructure repairs to restore essential services across the affected regions.