Governor Abbott requests federal aid for Texas counties hit by floods, aiming to include them in a Major Disaster Declaration.

KERRVILLE, Texas - Governor Greg Abbott joined General Steven Nordhaus, Chief of the National Guard Bureau and member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in Kerr Coun

The first State Flood Plan, published last year, identified $54 billion in flood mitigation, warning and data needs. The state has awarded around $660 million since the plan was published, with a special legislative session coming.

At least 131 people died in the flash floods that devastated Central Texas over Fourth of July weekend, Gov. Greg Abbott said at a Monday news briefing. Seventeen of those deaths occurred across Travis, Burnet and Williamson counties, according to the latest figures from the governor.

Texas and the Czech Republic have had a military relationship since 1993 as part of the National Guard Bureau's State Partnership Program pairing states to train with countries around the world.

Texas special session called to address flood warning failures and emergency response after Hill Country flooding caused more than 100 deaths.

Texans often draw on the idea of their own self-reliance during times of adversity. Gov. Greg Abbott has used it to deflect tough questions.

The serious threat unfolding in San Saba County is along the San Saba River, another area known to flood. Rains from this weekend — on top of the already soaked ground — were forecast to raise the river above 30 inches. The river is forecast to rise faster and higher than it did on July 4.