HUNT, Texas — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) removed several buildings at Camp Mystic from the 100-year floodplain map prior to the camp’s expansion, according to official records, as a historic flood on July 4 killed at least 27 campers and counselors.
FEMA granted repeated appeals filed by Camp Mystic’s management, which led to the removal of the camp’s buildings from the designated flood hazard area.
The flood struck the camp during the early hours of July 4, causing extensive property damage and resulting in significant loss of life. The disaster has raised concerns about the accuracy and effectiveness of FEMA’s flood risk assessments.
FEMA’s appeals process requires submission of engineering and scientific data to justify the removal of structures from flood maps. Camp Mystic successfully completed this process multiple times, according to documents obtained by investigators.
Investigations continue into the July 4 flood and FEMA’s role in flood risk management. Stakeholders stress the importance of balancing development goals with disaster preparedness to prevent future loss of life.