Zelenskyy reacts to Texas floods that killed 27 and left kids missing
Photo: Aftermath of the flood in Texas (video screenshot)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed condolences to the United States over the deadly flooding in Texas.
"Our condolences to the President of the United States, the American people, and all Texans who have been affected by terrible and deadly floods," Zelenskyy wrote.
He extended sympathy to the families of more than two dozen victims and to all American communities impacted by the natural disaster.
"We hope that those who have gone missing, including children from a summer camp, will be returned to safety as soon as possible. We wish the brave first responders strength and a speedy recovery in the areas affected by the flooding," Zelenskyy concluded.
Background
On Friday, heavy rains struck the central part of Kerr County in Texas. Within hours, the situation resulted in casualties.
According to the latest data, 27 people died, including nine children. Additionally, 27 girls from a summer camp remain missing.
Photo: Flooded streets and homes in San Angelo, Texas, after heavy rainfall
Due to the severe flooding, a state of emergency was declared in Texas counties. Numerous roads were destroyed, and phone lines are down.
Authorities reported that the Guadalupe River rose nearly 8 meters in less than an hour. The ensuing flood washed away mobile homes, cars, and cottages.
US President Donald Trump responded to the situation, describing it as shocking and terrible. He said his administration is working closely with state authorities to address the crisis. He also announced that Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem is headed to Texas.
Meanwhile, Texas Governor Greg Abbott granted rescuers access to all necessary resources. He said search efforts for the missing will continue around the clock.
Photo: CNN report from one of the scenes (screenshot)
Media reports stated that 850 people were evacuated unharmed, while eight others were injured.
It was also reported that authorities did not issue an early evacuation because they did not anticipate such flooding.
For context, a major flood occurred in Nigeria in late May of this year. More than 100 people died, and dozens of homes were washed away.
