Climate risks prompt fire and rescue funding demands from FBU and NGOs

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Climate groups back FBU call ahead Budget

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has coordinated a joint letter urging the UK government to increase funding for the fire and rescue service in response to climate-related risks.

The union said the intervention comes as Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to deliver the Budget and follows discussions at COP30 on the global response to the climate crisis.

According to the letter, addressed to the Chancellor and Environment Secretary Ed Miliband, environmental and tax justice organisations including Greenpeace, Tax Justice UK, Friends of the Earth, Tipping Point UK and Global Justice Now have joined the call.

The signatories stated that the UK is “dangerously under-prepared” for the growing threat of wildfires, flooding and the wider impacts of climate change and that current arrangements do not match the risk profile set out in government assessments.

The letter asks the government to commit to substantial, long-term investment in fire and rescue provision across the UK as part of wider climate adaptation measures.

The signatories of the joint letter said: “But we also need to adapt.

“There is stark evidence that the UK is dangerously under-prepared for the growing threat of wildfires, flooding, and the wider impacts of the climate crisis.”

Wildfire and flooding risks set out for UK

The letter cites data from the Global Wildfire Information System indicating that by November 2025, wildfires had burned 47,026 hectares in the UK, the largest area recorded since monitoring began in 2012.

According to the signatories, this figure is more than double the area affected during the record-breaking summer of 2022.

Scientific projections referenced in the letter state that the number of days with “very high” fire danger is expected to triple by the 2050s and increase more than five-fold by the 2080s.

The projected rise in fire danger is described as a threat to public safety across the UK, with a particular concentration in southern and eastern England.

The signatories also reference the Met Office’s UK Climate Projections, which indicate that the risk of intense rainfall is increasing sharply.

Evidence from the Committee on Climate Change and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is cited as pointing to higher flood risk across the UK, including from seas, rivers and surface water.

The letter notes that the government’s National Risk Register already lists both wildfires and severe flooding as major national threats capable of causing prolonged disruption to infrastructure, utilities, transport networks and public health.

The signatories argue that, despite this assessment, there is currently no UK-wide strategy to prepare fire and rescue services for climate impacts and no dedicated investment programme aimed at building resilience.

Funding model for fire and rescue challenged

The FBU and co-signatories state that the fire and rescue service has lost nearly 12,000 firefighters since 2010, which they describe as one in five posts.

According to the letter, central government funding for the service has fallen by 30% in cash terms over the same period, with a steeper reduction once inflation is taken into account.

The signatories argue that these trends have contributed to equipment shortages, under-staffed control rooms and gaps in protective gear, with off-duty firefighters frequently recalled during extreme incidents.

The letter references a wildfire in Holt Heath, Dorset, in August 2025, where 17 fire and rescue services were mobilised, including crews from Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

It states that many firefighters attending that incident did not have specialist wildfire personal protective equipment (PPE), which the signatories say exposed crews to increased risks of heat stroke, exhaustion and burns.

The signatories also highlight the 2022 heatwave in London, when temperatures reached 40°C and 39 fire engines reportedly remained uncrewed due to firefighter shortages.

The letter states that this year’s Local Government Settlement from the Treasury has put fire and rescue services on a path towards further cuts.

Modelling by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), as cited in the letter, indicates that up to £102 million could be removed from fire and rescue budgets to address funding shortfalls, which the signatories say would further weaken major incident response.

The signatories concluded that this approach “is not a sustainable or safe model for climate resilience.”

They are calling for new central government funding to ensure sufficient firefighters, emergency fire control staff and specialist resources to meet wildfire and flooding risks.

They also want a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England to respond to flooding, in line with existing arrangements in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

The letter further calls for a UK-wide wildfire resilience strategy developed with the FBU and other stakeholders, with the aim of establishing consistent standards for planning, training and operational response.

The signatories said: “We urge you to act decisively to provide the investment, strategy and leadership that firefighters and the communities they protect urgently need to tackle the realities of climate change.”

Climate funding call and its impact on UK services

Fire and rescue chiefs and senior officers may need to review staffing models, resource allocation and specialist capability if the government responds positively to the funding proposals set out in the letter.

Emergency and disaster response managers could face changes in planning assumptions if projections about increased wildfire danger and intense rainfall are used to reshape national risk and resilience frameworks.

Procurement officers and equipment specifiers may see greater focus on specialist wildfire PPE and flood response capability if new investment is directed towards addressing the gaps described for incidents such as the Holt Heath wildfire.

Government departments responsible for local government finance and climate adaptation could have to balance NFCC modelling on potential £102 million cuts against the call from the FBU and partner organisations for expanded climate-related duties.

Training officers and instructors might need to adapt programmes to align with any UK-wide wildfire resilience strategy that sets new standards for planning, training and operational response across services.

Risk assessors and fire engineering consultants could use the combination of Met Office, Committee on Climate Change and DEFRA evidence cited in the letter to inform advice on community risk management plans and infrastructure resilience.

Why England’s flood resilience could falter without reform

by Breaking NewsFlooding

Flood resilience in England: A systemic risk requiring national coordination

The UK Parliament’s Environmental Audit Committee has published a new report warning that England’s approach to flood resilience is fragmented, reactive and underfunded.

The Fourth Report of Session 2024–26, titled Flood resilience in England, was released on Monday 13 October 2025.

The Committee said flooding from rivers, coasts, surface water and groundwater is intensifying due to climate change, urbanisation and land-use change.

It reported that communities across England face repeated disruption, with long recovery times, emotional distress and damage to homes, businesses and public infrastructure.

According to the report, the social and economic effects of flooding include displacement, financial hardship, anxiety, lost livelihoods and disrupted education and essential services.

High-risk properties face rising insurance costs and mortgage challenges, while the cumulative impact is placing strain on both households and local economies.

The Committee acknowledged that government capital funding for flood defences has increased but said the scale of investment remains insufficient relative to overall risk.

It described the current system as fragmented, with overlapping responsibilities and reactive interventions that fail to deliver long-term resilience.

The report concluded that a single national body should take overarching responsibility for leadership, accountability and coordination across agencies.

Catchment-scale solutions and nature-based measures

The Committee called for a strategic shift from property-focused defence schemes to integrated, locally led solutions at river catchment level.

It said investment should prioritise measures that reduce flood risk across entire communities, balancing structural defences with nature-based interventions.

The report outlined examples such as tree planting, wetland restoration and sustainable drainage, which can slow and store water while providing environmental co-benefits.

It stated that resilience should be built into homes through higher new-build standards and government-backed support for retrofitting existing properties.

Development in high-risk zones must be more tightly managed, the Committee said, to avoid compounding exposure to known flood risks.

The report also called for a single, trusted reporting line for residents during flood events, helping coordinate warnings, response and recovery.

Funding, insurance and community capacity gaps

The Committee found that communities, local authorities and voluntary groups play a critical role in preparedness, response and recovery but remain underfunded and inconsistently supported.

It recommended that volunteers and flood action groups be formally recognised and given sustainable training and resources to ensure continuity and equitable coverage across different areas.

According to the report, these efforts should align with national and local frameworks, including the National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) Strategy and Flood Risk Management Plans.

It warned that financial mechanisms underpinning resilience are not yet sufficient to secure long-term protection or affordability.

The report said Flood Re, the joint government and insurance industry scheme, has stabilised the market but that England is not on track to be fully risk reflective or flood resilient before the scheme’s planned end in 2039.

Without policy changes, the Committee said, protection gaps will persist and leave households without affordable insurance options.

Programmes such as Build Back Better and Flood Performance Certificates can help incentivise property resilience, but the report urged targeted government interventions to make these measures more widely accessible.

Towards a long-term vision for a resilient England

The Environmental Audit Committee concluded that achieving flood resilience will require a long-term national vision addressing the full human, social and economic costs of flooding.

It stated that effective practice involves coordinated water management at catchment scale, integrated investment in both structural and nature-based defences and equitable funding that reflects need rather than property value.

The report called for government to embed resilience across policy areas and ensure that each department’s spending aligns with national flood and climate adaptation goals.

By adopting a coordinated, adaptive approach, the Committee said, England can protect lives, homes and public investment for decades to come.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The findings are directly relevant to emergency planners, local resilience forums and incident commanders who manage large-scale flood response.

Improved catchment coordination and reporting mechanisms would influence how fire and rescue services integrate flood operations with other agencies.

Facility managers and risk assessors in high-risk regions may also need to review contingency planning and drainage infrastructure in light of potential new national standards.

Building engineers and fire-protection contractors could be affected by new expectations for flood-resilient design in both new-build and retrofit projects.

If government adopts the report’s recommendations, future planning and funding frameworks may reshape how fire and rescue authorities prepare for and recover from flooding incidents.

NEMA calls for proactive disaster risk reduction in Nigeria’s Ondo State

by Featured NewsFlooding

NEMA calls for sustained emergency preparedness in Ondo State

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has called on Nigerian states to adopt proactive and continuous measures for disaster risk reduction.

According to NEMA, the appeal was made on 10 August 2025 by its Director General Zubaida Umar, who was represented by Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting Dr Onimode Abdullahi Bandele.

NEMA said the remarks came during a courtesy visit to the Governor of Ondo State, ahead of the official launch of the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Project in the state.

The agency commended the Ondo State Government for what it described as a forward-thinking approach to disaster management.

It added that Ondo State is one of seven selected for the EPR project based on its preparedness and governance.

EPR project objectives and partnerships

NEMA stated that the EPR project is being implemented in collaboration with the World Bank.

According to the agency, the initiative is designed to strengthen early warning systems, improve community resilience, and enable timely response to emergencies such as flooding and sea incursion.

It said the project’s scope covers both infrastructure development and public sensitisation measures to ensure communities are prepared.

The organisation explained that the selected states will receive targeted support to integrate risk reduction into planning and policy frameworks.

NEMA added that the programme is part of a wider national effort to standardise emergency response capacity.

Ondo State’s disaster prevention approach

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa said his administration is committed to safeguarding lives and property through deliberate prevention measures.

He said the state’s inclusion in the EPR project was due to proactive flood control and environmental protection policies, rather than extreme vulnerability.

“We are intentional and deliberate about preventing emergencies, especially in the area of flood control,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said.

“The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with other relevant agencies, has been mandated to ensure that our people are protected through effective policies, infrastructure, and sensitization.”

The governor said the government has maintained a focus on preparedness in order to mitigate the impact of potential disasters.

Addressing sea incursion challenges

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the state is tackling the recurring problem of sea incursion in the Aiyetoro Community and nearby areas.

He stated that his government is engaging with the Federal Government and development partners to secure a lasting solution.

According to the governor, these discussions include both technical and financial considerations to ensure any intervention is sustainable.

The governor said that protecting coastal communities remains a priority for his administration.

He added that work is ongoing to integrate coastal risk management into broader environmental planning.

Stakeholder engagement in project launch

NEMA reported that the courtesy visit and EPR project flag-off brought together key stakeholders.

It said these included officials from the Ondo State Government, NEMA, the World Bank, and other partners.

According to the agency, the event marked a step in strengthening coordinated emergency preparedness in the state.

The agency stated that the project framework encourages inter-agency collaboration to maximise efficiency.

It added that lessons learned from the pilot states could inform future national rollouts.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Fire and safety professionals can draw operational insight from the integration of early warning systems into broader disaster preparedness planning.

The EPR project shows how government, international agencies, and local authorities can collaborate on prevention-focused infrastructure and public awareness.

Lessons from the approach in Ondo State may apply to fire risk reduction, particularly in developing coordinated policy, ensuring technical readiness, and building community resilience.

The emphasis on prevention over response also aligns with evolving safety management strategies in high-risk sectors.

NEMA calls for proactive disaster risk reduction in Nigeria’s Ondo State: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged Nigerian states to adopt sustained disaster risk reduction measures.

Director General Zubaida Umar made the call on 10 August 2025 during a visit to Ondo State, represented by Dr Onimode Abdullahi Bandele.

NEMA said the visit preceded the launch of the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Project in the state.

The agency stated that Ondo was selected as one of seven pilot states due to its proactive disaster management policies.

It explained that the EPR project, supported by the World Bank, aims to improve early warning systems, community resilience, and response to flooding and sea incursion.

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa said the state is committed to prevention, particularly in flood control.

He highlighted measures to address sea incursion in Aiyetoro Community and surrounding areas.

The launch was attended by NEMA, Ondo State officials, the World Bank, and other stakeholders.

Officials absent from emergency briefing before deadly Texas floods

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsFlooding

Officials missed key call before floods hit Texas

All senior Kerr County officials responsible for disaster coordination were absent from an emergency weather briefing held before the 4 July floods that killed 136 people across Texas, according to CNN.

The information emerged during a public hearing of the Texas Senate and House Select Committees on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding held on 31 July in Kerrville.

CNN reported that the emergency coordination calls were organised by the Texas Division of Emergency Management on 3 July.

Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. told CNN he had not seen the email invitations to attend.

Kerr County’s emergency management coordinator William B. “Dub” Thomas told the hearing he was off sick and remained in bed throughout the day.

Thomas said: “In my absence, my supervisors and sheriff’s office leadership were aware that I was off duty.”

He did not participate in the two coordination calls held that day at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

State and local leaders face criticism over flood response

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick directly criticised Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly for being absent on 4 July.

Patrick said: “I don’t know where you were on day one on July 4, but you should have been here. You should have been here directing that response. That’s your responsibility.”

Texas Representative Ann Johnson told the committee: “The three guys in Kerr County, who were responsible for sounding the alarm, were effectively unavailable.”

Johnson said the judge was away, the sheriff did not wake until 4.20 a.m., and the emergency coordinator was ill.

Travis County Judge Andy Brown raised concerns about the absence of a National Weather Service official who had previously played a key role in alerting local governments to major weather risks.

Brown said the post had been vacant for several months and had not been filled ahead of the storm.

Residents testify to failings in alert systems

Multiple residents gave testimony at the hearing urging improvements to Texas’s flood alert systems.

Alicia Jeffrey Baker, who lost her parents and 11-year-old daughter, called for sensor-based sirens that would activate when river levels rose.

Baker said: “If we have gauges in water already, put a sensor on them. If it gets to a certain point, that’s when the siren goes off.”

Bud Bolton, a resident of Hunt, Texas, described watching more than 100 RVs swept past him while hearing children trapped inside.

He said: “We got an alert to evacuate, after all the homes were gone. That’s when our alert came in.”

Rosa Toller, from the Bumble Bee Hills area, said the only warning she received came from neighbours shouting in the street.

Williamson County Judge Steven Snell described how a woman named Sherry Richardson called 911 asking rescuers to prioritise a home for disabled children.

Snell said Richardson died in the flood, but 16 people were evacuated because of her call.

Residents report lack of support from state and federal agencies

Mike Richards, a resident of Bandera, Texas, said he recovered ten bodies without official help.

He criticised state authorities for blocking his access to excavation equipment and said he received no assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Richards said: “It was two days before I got some help. It was not from the state, not from the government. It was some good-hearted people.”

CNN reported that FEMA had acknowledged being overwhelmed by call volumes during the peak of the flood.

Richards said he would have broken the law if necessary to recover victims.

Calls for mental health care and funding support

Keli Rabon, whose two sons survived flooding at Camp La Junta, said her younger son now lives in fear.

Rabon told the hearing: “Brock scans every room for higher ground. He checks the weather constantly. He battles nightmares of water dripping from the ceiling or his mattress being wet.”

She said FEMA had not been able to help with trauma support.

Rabon said she had been relying on volunteer groups to find mental health care.

She called on the state to release recovery funding, integrate mental health into disaster response, and require emergency plans for children’s camps.

Officials absent from emergency briefing before deadly Texas floods: Summary

CNN has reported that all key officials in Kerr County missed a pre-flood emergency call on 3 July.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management sent multiple emails about the calls.

Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. said he did not see the emails.

The county’s emergency coordinator was off sick and did not attend.

State officials criticised the absence of leadership on 4 July.

Residents testified to failures in flood alert systems.

Families said alerts came too late or not at all.

Some residents reported having no cell or Wi-Fi access.

A woman’s 911 call led to the rescue of 16 people.

Local people recovered bodies without official support.

FEMA was unable to respond to all calls during the flooding.

Parents requested better mental health support for children.

Families urged the state to fund recovery and mandate emergency planning.

NEMA leads flood readiness simulations in Nigeria to reduce disaster risks

by Featured NewsFlooding

Flood training exercises target high-risk Nigerian states

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has initiated simulation drills across flood-prone regions of Nigeria to improve early response and evacuation capabilities.

According to NEMA, the preparedness drive is intended to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding, which continues to affect large parts of the country.

The simulation events brought together emergency responders, military personnel, dam operators, and community volunteers to practice coordinated evacuation and rescue missions.

These activities were held in areas including Anambra and Kano states, where recent floods have caused severe damage.

The agency said its efforts aim to shift focus from reactive responses to pre-emptive planning involving multiple stakeholders.

Simulation exercise held in Anambra State

NEMA carried out a large-scale drill in Anambra State named Exercise IDE MMILI ODACH.

According to the agency, the exercise was designed to prepare residents in communities such as Ogbaru for recurring floods caused by the River Niger.

Participants included police, soldiers, emergency medical teams, and volunteers.

Evacuation strategies, boat-based rescues, and emergency treatment were practiced in advance of the rainy season.

Chika Okoye, a local youth leader, said: “We always see them after a flood happens, but now they are preparing us in advance. It gives us some hope.”

Kano State hosts dam-related flood drill

NEMA also conducted a simulation called Ex-Ceton Rayuka in Wudil, Kano State.

The agency stated that the exercise focused on communities downstream from the Tiga, Challawa, and Bagauda dams, where water releases can lead to rapid flooding.

Local youth groups, divers, and government representatives participated in testing coordinated response actions.

Aisha Lawan, a school teacher from Wudil, said: “We used to just pray when the dams overflowed. But this time, we practiced what to do. Now we know where to go and who to call.”

According to NEMA, the drill emphasised the importance of role clarity, communication efficiency, and resident participation.

Agency leadership highlights urgency

NEMA Director General Hajiya Zubaida Umar personally led the Anambra exercise and cited recent flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, as evidence of the need for preparedness.

Hajiya Zubaida Umar said: “Preparedness is no longer optional. It is essential. What we do now determines how many lives we save when the floods come.”

NEMA’s Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong, added: “Preparedness is a continuous process. It’s better to find our weaknesses during a drill than during a disaster.”

NEMA said it is working to reinforce preparedness through repeated drills, awareness campaigns, and community engagement.

Forecasts warn of widespread flood risks

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have projected that at least 31 states could experience flooding in 2025.

According to the forecasts, contributing factors include blocked drainage systems, deforestation, unauthorised construction, and changing climate patterns.

NEMA stated that without adequate planning, there could be high levels of displacement, damage to infrastructure, and loss of life.

The agency said flood mitigation will require enforcement of building regulations, clearing of water channels, and stronger communication of warnings.

Despite challenges such as gaps in early warning systems and delayed local action, NEMA said its drills are helping to embed response capacity within communities.

NEMA leads flood readiness simulations in Nigeria to reduce disaster risks: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has initiated simulation drills across Nigeria to strengthen flood preparedness.

Drills have taken place in states including Anambra and Kano.

The simulation in Anambra was named Exercise IDE MMILI ODACH.

The Kano drill, focused on dam-induced floods, was named Ex-Ceton Rayuka.

NEMA’s Director General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, led the Anambra exercise.

Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong said it is better to test plans before disasters occur.

Forecasts from NiMet and NIHSA warn of flooding in at least 31 states in 2025.

Contributing factors include climate change, deforestation, and poor drainage.

Participants in the drills included responders, community groups, and local leaders.

NEMA said these exercises aim to build proactive flood response systems.

FEMA official resigns following delays in Texas flood rescue response

by AmericasFloodingPeopleSearch and Rescue

Urban search leader steps down over deployment delay

Ken Pagurek, chief of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) branch, has resigned following reported delays in the agency’s deployment during the recent floods in Texas.

According to CNN, Pagurek’s resignation came after internal frustration with new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies that delayed rescue operations by over 72 hours.

The delay followed a new requirement that all FEMA contracts exceeding $100,000 must receive personal sign-off from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.

Sources told CNN that the Texas response was the final straw in a wider pattern of challenges faced by Pagurek under the Trump administration.

In his resignation letter, obtained by CNN, Pagurek did not cite the Texas floods but stated he was returning to the Philadelphia Fire Department.

FEMA response times questioned after flooding in Texas

The CNN report stated that FEMA’s elite rescue teams were not deployed until several days after the flooding began.

Officials within FEMA attributed the delay to new internal cost controls introduced by Secretary Noem, which required personal approval for larger contracts.

Noem’s office defended the response, stating that other DHS assets, including the Coast Guard and Border Patrol, were used before FEMA resources were authorised.

A DHS spokesperson told CNN: “It is laughable that a career public employee… would choose to resign over our refusal to hastily approve a six-figure deployment contract without basic financial oversight.”

Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s office reported that the state deployed more than 2,100 personnel from 20 agencies in response.

President Donald Trump supported the federal response and endorsed the policy of shifting disaster response responsibilities to individual states.

FEMA director defends agency at Congressional hearing

Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson defended the agency’s response during a hearing of the House transportation and infrastructure committee.

According to the Guardian, Richardson described FEMA’s handling of the Texas floods as “a model how disasters should be handled”.

Representative Greg Stanton criticised the response as both “incompetence” and “indifference”, suggesting lives may have been lost as a result.

Richardson denied wrongdoing, stating that the agency was realigning with its original mission to support state-led responses.

He was unable to confirm whether FEMA would continue to exist under current reforms, saying only that “the president wants better emergency management”.

FEMA launches new task force for rapid funding

CNN reported that FEMA is creating a Disaster Funding Adjudication Task Force to speed up internal approval of critical emergency contracts.

Internal memos obtained by CNN show that the task force is designed to process requests within hours to avoid operational delays during federally declared disasters.

However, despite the new process, all approvals will still be subject to Richardson and then Noem, raising questions about the system’s effectiveness.

A FEMA official told CNN: “It’s just a shotgun approach to guidance that we are constantly reacting to… to make sure we can answer the bell when it’s rung.”

The DHS responded by questioning the policy relevance of the internal memos.

Congressional concerns and proposed FEMA reforms

Members of Congress raised concerns about FEMA’s direction and accountability.

Representative Rick Larsen cited 518 statutory mandates FEMA must follow, claiming the agency was not in compliance.

Richardson replied that FEMA had identified eight mission-essential tasks it prioritises based on its own analysis.

Representative Dina Titus said the $100,000 contract approval threshold constituted bureaucracy, not oversight.

A bipartisan bill to reform FEMA, including proposals to centralise disaster funding information, was announced during the hearing.

The Environmental Defense Fund has expressed support for the legislation, citing the increasing severity of disasters.

FEMA official resigns following delays in Texas flood rescue response: Summary

Ken Pagurek has resigned as chief of FEMA’s Urban Search and Rescue branch.

CNN reported the resignation followed delays in FEMA deployment during Texas floods.

The delay was attributed to a DHS rule requiring Kristi Noem’s personal approval of contracts over $100,000.

Pagurek’s resignation letter did not reference the flood but cited personal reflection.

FEMA is launching a new task force to speed emergency contract approvals.

The task force will still require Richardson and Noem’s sign-off.

DHS defended the process as responsible financial oversight.

Richardson called FEMA’s flood response a “model” at a congressional hearing.

Congressional representatives criticised the response and FEMA’s current leadership.

A bipartisan FEMA reform bill was announced during the hearing.

Richardson denied FEMA made errors and said states should take more responsibility.

President Trump supports reducing FEMA’s role in disaster management.

FEMA has been under internal strain with multiple resignations.

Richardson denied claims that calls to FEMA’s disaster hotline went unanswered.

The Guardian reported that Democrats challenged FEMA’s climate and disaster readiness.

Richardson said FEMA would respond to disasters “regardless of their origin”.

AT&T provides $200k and mobile support in Texas flooding response

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsFlooding

AT&T donates $200k to Kerr County flood recovery

AT&T has pledged $200,000 to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country’s Kerr County Flood Relief Fund in response to widespread flooding in Central Texas.

According to AT&T, the funding will assist with both immediate recovery and longer-term rebuilding efforts following the severe weather events that began in early July 2025.

The company stated that it will match all employee contributions to the relief fund, effectively doubling the available support for local community initiatives.

This financial commitment is part of a broader effort by the telecommunications company to assist affected residents and public agencies in the region.

The donation is intended to assist response partners equipped to handle natural disaster recovery, according to AT&T.

Communications access prioritised for emergency response

AT&T has deployed its Network Disaster Recovery team to support connectivity in areas impacted by the flooding.

The company also confirmed that its FirstNet Response Operations Group, comprised of former emergency responders, has been sent to direct the use of FirstNet assets based on requirements from public safety partners.

FirstNet, built in partnership with AT&T, is described by the company as the only nationwide 5G network designed specifically for emergency service personnel in the United States.

According to AT&T, FirstNet provides dedicated connectivity for first responders and is being used to support emergency communication during the ongoing crisis.

Mobile cell sites have been set up in affected zones to help emergency teams maintain operational capability during the recovery period.

Customers given extended free data and call services

From 5 July to 3 August 2025, AT&T has suspended overage charges for customers living in areas covered by the emergency response.

This includes unlimited talk, text and data for both Postpaid and Prepaid customers with billing addresses in the designated disaster-affected zip codes.

The measure is aimed at reducing financial strain for those impacted by the flooding and ensuring they maintain access to communication during the disruption.

Leslie Ward, President of AT&T Southern Region, said: “Our hearts go out to the Central Texas communities impacted by the recent devastation. We’re committed to supporting recovery efforts and helping ensure that residents and first responders maintain reliable connectivity during this challenging time.”

AT&T also confirmed that local retail stores remain open to provide customer support.

Connectivity tools deployed across public sites

AT&T and the Information Technology Disaster Resource Center have installed a Mobile Connectivity Center at Schreiner University in Kerrville.

This 40-foot facility provides free public access to Wi-Fi, 16 computers and charging stations for devices.

AT&T has also delivered supplies such as power strips, charging blocks and cables to the Texas Department of Emergency Management.

These resources will be distributed locally by the department to help affected residents maintain communications access during the response and recovery.

According to AT&T, these deployments are part of a broader effort to ensure continuity of service and access to emergency updates for the local population.

Employee and community support initiatives continue

AT&T has activated its Employee Relief Fund, managed by the public charity E4E Relief, to support staff affected by the flooding.

The company said the fund is designed to help employees facing serious personal or financial challenges as a result of natural disasters.

AT&T stated that it would continue to engage with local authorities and non-profit organisations to provide assistance as needs develop.

This includes ongoing coordination with partners on the ground in Central Texas to support long-term rebuilding and resilience planning.

The company confirmed that it intends to maintain its presence in the area throughout the summer recovery period.

AT&T provides $200k and mobile support in Texas flooding response: Summary

AT&T has donated $200,000 to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

The company is matching all employee contributions to the fund.

FirstNet assets have been deployed to support first responder communications.

AT&T’s Network Disaster Recovery team is assisting affected areas.

Overage charges have been waived for customers from 5 July to 3 August 2025.

AT&T and ITDRC have installed a public Mobile Connectivity Center in Kerrville.

Charging equipment has been supplied to the Texas Department of Emergency Management.

AT&T retail locations remain open in Central Texas.

An Employee Relief Fund has been activated for affected staff.

AT&T said it will continue working with communities during the recovery.

Southern Europe battered by fire, flood and wind in week of weather chaos

by Breaking NewsFloodingWildland Fire

Severe weather and wildfires strike southern Europe amid record heat

Extreme weather events have swept across southern Europe in recent days, with severe storms, wildfires and heat-related damage reported in Croatia, Serbia, Spain and France.

Each country has faced a distinct set of challenges, ranging from violent hailstorms and floods to fast-spreading fires fuelled by drought and strong winds.

The disruption has led to evacuations, injuries, damage to infrastructure, and major emergency response efforts.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the events in each country, drawing from coverage by AP, Reuters and the BBC.

Storm causes injuries and flooding in Croatia and Serbia

Source: AP News

Violent hailstorm hits coastal Croatia

A powerful storm swept through the Croatian city of Split on Tuesday, bringing hail, strong winds and significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.

The Poljud soccer stadium suffered roof and pitch damage, while an unmanned tourist boat sank after being struck by a ferry that broke free from its moorings in the Adriatic port.

At least three people were injured.

Storm spreads through the Balkans

After affecting Croatia, the storm continued into Bosnia and Serbia, causing further damage and disrupting air traffic at Belgrade Airport.

In the Serbian capital, a crane collapsed at a construction site and at least one person was injured.

The weather followed a regional heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C, and marked the start of a cooler period, according to meteorologists.

Fires and drought pressure Serbia

Meanwhile, firefighters in Serbia battled over 600 wildfires on Monday alone, with six injuries reported.

Emergency measures were introduced in three municipalities in the south.

A senior official said: “Many villages were jeopardised.

“We have a number of burnt and damaged properties but we have managed to save many too.”

The fires followed a severe drought that has endangered crops and led to drinking water restrictions.

Low river levels on the Danube and Sava have also raised concerns.

Thousands ordered indoors as wildfires spread in Spain

Source: Reuters

Catalonia blaze triggers mass shelter-in-place order

Spanish authorities instructed over 18,000 residents in Tarragona province to remain indoors on Tuesday due to an uncontrolled wildfire in the mountainous Pauls area.

Rough terrain and wind gusts of up to 90 km/h hindered firefighting efforts.

Approximately 3,000 hectares of land have burned, with about 30 percent falling within the Ports Natural Park.

Overnight fear and emergency mobilisation

Residents in nearby Xerta and Aldover reported a night of fear and uncertainty as fires approached their homes.

“Last night, because of the wind that was blowing the fire and the smoke, we couldn’t leave our house.

“Terrible, this has never been seen before,” said 76-year-old Rosa Veleda.

Authorities prevented the fire from crossing the Ebro River, which would have significantly worsened the situation.

National alert amid record temperatures

Spain experienced its hottest June on record, prompting a heightened alert for wildfires nationwide.

Two people were killed in a Catalonia wildfire earlier this month.

The military and more than 300 firefighters have been deployed to contain the current outbreak.

Marseille wildfire injures over 100 and halts city transport

Source: AP News and BBC

Blaze reaches France’s second-largest city

A wildfire that broke out near Les Pennes-Mirabeau rapidly advanced toward Marseille on Tuesday, forcing hundreds to evacuate and tens of thousands to stay indoors.

By Wednesday, authorities reported the fire was in “net regression” but still not fully extinguished.

Over 1,000 firefighters were deployed, supported by water-dropping aircraft.

Large-scale disruption and response

The fire burned approximately 720 hectares and temporarily shut down Marseille Provence Airport and regional rail services.

The city’s mayor, Benoît Payan, described the blaze as spreading at a rate of 1.2 km per minute.

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said firefighters would work through the night.

Nine firefighters were injured, and 110 people in total were treated for smoke and related injuries.

Cause, conditions and national response

The fire was reportedly started by a car that caught fire on a motorway.

Marseille had not seen any rainfall since May, and the region’s dry conditions, dense vegetation, and high winds contributed to the fire’s speed.

French President Emmanuel Macron, on a visit to the UK, expressed support for residents and emergency crews.

Elsewhere in France, wildfires also continued near Narbonne, burning 2,000 hectares.

Wider European context: fires and droughts extend to Greece and beyond

Source: BBC

Multiple fires across Europe

Alongside those in France and Spain, Greece also reported 41 wildfires on Monday.

While most were quickly contained, seven remained active by the evening.

The wave of fires follows an early summer heatwave that has impacted much of southern and western Europe.

Extreme heat intensifies risk

Meteorological agencies across the continent have linked the scale and frequency of the fires and storms to prolonged periods of hot, dry weather.

In Serbia, Slovenia and France, the absence of rainfall, high winds and rising temperatures have collectively worsened fire conditions and increased the likelihood of storms.

Southern Europe battered by fire, flood and wind in week of weather chaos: Summary

Across the Balkans, Spain and France, emergency services have been stretched by concurrent climate-related events: powerful storms in Croatia and Serbia, uncontrolled wildfires in Catalonia and Marseille, and extreme heatwaves compounding fire risk throughout the region.

Authorities continue to warn of the growing frequency of such events as climate patterns shift across Europe.