USAA has pledged $500,000 in aid as catastrophic flooding across central Texas has claimed 81 lives and left dozens missing, with insurance companies bracing for widespread damage claims in the region known as “flash flood alley.”
The San Antonio-based financial services company announced the commitment last week, directing funds to multiple organizations including the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, Texas Search & Rescue, Red Cross, and Salvation Army. According to a news release, the assistance targets emergency sheltering, feeding operations, ground and aerial search efforts, and disaster recovery support.
“The destruction and loss we are seeing in Texas is heartbreaking, and our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, especially the families of those who have lost loved ones and those who are still waiting to hear news,” said Juan C. Andrade, USAA’s president and CEO.
The flooding struck Friday with devastating force, sending a 20- to 26-foot surge down the Guadalupe River near Kerrville. Camp Mystic, a century-old summer camp, confirmed 27 campers and counselors died in the disaster. The camp’s director, Dick Eastland, died attempting to save campers, his grandson told NBC News.
President Donald Trump signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, located west of Austin, opening federal assistance channels for affected residents and businesses. The declaration typically enables individuals and businesses to apply for low-interest disaster loans and grants for temporary housing and home repairs.
USAA’s contribution adds to the $1.3 million the company has already allocated this year for community support programs. The company is also activating volunteer programs with Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response organization, leveraging its 17,000 San Antonio-area employees.
“Our mission to serve includes supporting the communities where we live and work,” Andrade stated. “This weekend’s events are a reminder of how quickly lives can change and how important it is to support one another whenever and however we can.”
Insurance industry experts anticipate significant property damage claims from the flooding, which affected areas including Hunt, Ingram, and Kerrville. Reports describe widespread damage with submerged vehicles, floating cabins, and homes swept away by floodwaters. Survivors Doug Fuller and Libby Evans-Fuller described being swept from their home after watching their car float away, eventually clinging to their mattress against the ceiling as water rose.
The National Weather Service maintains flood watches through 7 pm local time today for San Antonio, Austin, and Kerr County, with additional rainfall of 2-4 inches possible.
Search and rescue operations continue as authorities work to locate missing persons, including 10 campers and one staff member from Camp Mystic.
How should insurance companies support communities facing repeated disasters like the Texas flooding? Share your insights in the comments below.
