Washington County implements burn ban amid ongoing storm recovery efforts

On July 7, 2025, the Kerr County Commissioners Court convened an emergency session to address pressing issues following severe storms and flooding that impacted the region over the Fourth of July weekend. The meeting began with a prayer led by Commissioner Jones, emphasizing the need for guidance and support for affected families and workers.

A primary focus of the session was the reestablishment of a burn ban, which was deemed necessary due to ongoing search and rescue operations. The county judge proposed to implement the ban effective at 5:00 PM that day, allowing residents to complete any current activities before the restriction took effect. Sheriff’s input highlighted concerns that ongoing debris burning could hinder rescue efforts, particularly regarding the use of aircraft and drones in the search for missing individuals.

The court unanimously approved the extension of a local state of disaster declaration resulting from the severe storms, which began on July 3. This extension allows the county to continue accessing state and federal resources for recovery efforts. Additionally, the court voted to extend the suspension of the Texas Public Information Act for another week, enabling officials to manage the influx of public information requests more effectively during the recovery phase.

Sheriff's updates provided insight into the ongoing recovery efforts, detailing the rapid rise of water levels that necessitated immediate rescue operations. He reported that over 800 personnel were involved in the search and rescue mission, with resources being coordinated through the Emergency Operations Center. The sheriff emphasized the importance of transitioning from search to recovery as the situation evolves, while also addressing the community's eagerness to volunteer.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to public safety and effective disaster response, with officials working collaboratively to navigate the challenges posed by the recent natural disaster. As recovery efforts continue, the court's actions reflect a proactive approach to managing the aftermath of the storms and ensuring the well-being of the community.