Even in areas that are mapped, like the Camp Mystic site in Kerr County, Texas, that was hit by a deadly flash flood on July 4, 2025, the maps may underestimate their risk because of a reliance on historic data and outdated risk assessments.

The homeland security secretary said a report that thousands of calls to a disaster hotline went unanswered because of staffing cuts was “false.”

Chantal caused catastrophic flooding and six deaths in central North Carolina. Orange County leaders said the cost of repairs from Chantal will be about $30 million.

Many victims of the recent flooding did not have flood insurance when water washed away homes, cars and belongings.

The federal response to the flash flooding disaster in Texas has come under scrutiny. President Trump, who has called for cuts to FEMA, praised the agency during his recent visit to Texas, but did not comment on his plans for its future.

North Carolina is among 20 states seeking an emergency court decision to reinstate the funds, arguing FEMA unlawfully halted a program Congress had already funded.

President Donald Trump’s administration has systematically reduced states’ access to resources to safeguard their people against natural disasters.

Cuts made to the Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Trump administration severely impaired its ability to respond to the devastating floods in central Texas.