United StatesJoan Connor and her husband survived a deadly flood in Kerr County, Texas, in July 2025 by escaping to a pergola. The flood, which killed at least 119 people, destroyed much of their belongings, but the couple returned to their rebuilt home by Christmas. However, just over a year later, their house was flooded again. The article highlights broader issues of inadequate flood regulation in Texas, noting that despite numerous opportunities over decades, lawmakers have failed to implement stricter building codes or prevent development in high-risk zones. Research indicates Texas has more flood-prone buildings than any other state except Florida, and more flood-related deaths than any other state. The piece underscores the ongoing risks faced by residents due to lax regulations and the emotional toll of repeated disasters.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue of inadequate flood regulation as a systemic failure of Texas lawmakers, emphasizing the lack of action despite expert recommendations. It highlights the human cost of poor policy decisions and criticizes the state's regulatory approach compared to other U.S. states. The
