Local offices at the National Weather Service had staffing shortages that might have led to a harder time forecasting Central Texas's severe rain and deadly floods, according to The New York Times.
Former officials told the Times the staffing shortages meant there were less experienced workers who could have helped communicate with local authorities after the flash flood warnings were issued.
Along with the staffing shortages, it seems local communities weren't properly prepared.
Rob Kelly, the Kerr County judge, told the Times that the county did not have a warning system because residents are hesitant to spending money on something so expensive.
“Taxpayers won’t pay for it,” Kelly said.
He added that he doesn't know if residents might reconsider getting them after this deadly flood.
Vacant National Weather Service Positions May Have Hurt Flood Coordination: NYT
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