Biden Approves Major Disaster Declaration in 7 Texas Counties After Deadly Storm

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called for ‘robust action,’ citing ‘extensive damage caused by these severe storms, historic river flooding, and tornadoes.’

A journalist shoots footage of damage at a tire shop in the aftermath of a severe storm in Houston on May 17, 2024. Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via AP

President Joe Biden has approved a major disaster declaration in seven Texas counties affected by severe weather and flooding.

The White House announced on May 17 that the president had declared that a major disaster exists in parts of Texas, unlocking federal funding to affected individuals in the counties of Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity, and Walker.