In the wake of one of the most tragic natural disasters in recent Texas history, Governor Greg Abbott has ordered all Texas flags to be lowered to half-staff across the state. This act of collective mourning honors the many lives lost in the catastrophic flooding that swept through Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend. The flags will remain lowered through sunrise on Monday, July 14. Texans—especially business owners, schools, and government offices who proudly display the Lone Star Flag—are encouraged to participate in this gesture of respect and support.
The governor issued a statement: “Texas has sustained a devastating and heartbreaking loss as a result of the recent flooding events across the state. Countless lives have been lost during this horrific event and an unbelievable amount of physical and emotional damage has been sustained throughout the state. It is therefore fitting that flags be lowered to half-staff to assist in mourning, remembrance, and recovery from this terrible disaster.
Pursuant to Sections 3100.065 and 443.024(e) of the Texas Government, flags of the State of Texas shall be lowered statewide immediately to half-staff in mourning for those who lost their lives in the floods. Flags should be returned to full-staff at sunrise on Monday, July 14, 2025.
Individuals, businesses, and other political subdivisions and entities are encouraged to fly their flags at half-staff for the same length of time as a mark of respect and remembrance.
On behalf of Texas, the First Lady and I offer our thoughts and prayers on behalf families and survivors during their time of mourning and recovery.”
A Time-Honored Symbol of Grief and Respect
The tradition of lowering flags to half-staff dates back centuries and serves as a solemn symbol of shared loss. It’s not just a visual cue—it’s a call for reflection, unity, and remembrance. Governor Abbott’s statewide order is both a tribute and a show of solidarity with the communities left reeling from the destruction.
A Statewide Call to Prayer
In addition to ordering the flags lowered, Governor Abbott proclaimed a statewide Day of Prayer on Sunday, July 6. Texans of all faiths were urged to lift up the victims, the missing, their families, first responders, and recovery workers as they face the long road ahead. The Governor issued a statement:
“Texans are known for their faith, strength, and resilience,” said Governor Abbott. “Even as floodwaters raged, neighbors rushed in to rescue, comfort, and bring hope. In times of loss, we turn to God for comfort, healing, and strength. I urge every Texan to join me in prayer this Sunday—for the lives lost, for those still missing, for the recovery of our communities, and for the safety of those on the front lines.”
The designated Day of Prayer may have passed, but Texans—and people around the world—continue to lift up those affected by this tragedy. Prayers remain strong that the missing will be found and that comfort and healing will reach every family facing unimaginable loss.
The Toll: Lives Lost and Families Shattered
The floods—triggered by relentless storms and runoff from Tropical Storm Barry—have left deep scars:
• Over 120 people confirmed dead statewide
• 96 deaths in Kerr County alone, including 60 adults and 36 children
• More than 170 individuals still missing, with at least 161 from Kerr County
• Among the lives lost are 27 campers and counselors from Camp Mystic, with six still unaccounted for
What was meant to be a celebratory holiday turned into heartbreak for hundreds of Texas families. Beyond the tragic human cost, the floods have caused an estimated $18–22 billion in property damage. Homes, businesses, and infrastructure were torn apart by rising waters. Entire communities are now in recovery mode, relying on state and federal resources, volunteers, and first responders working tirelessly around the clock.
What Texans Can Do
More than symbols are needed. Donations, volunteerism, and continued attention to those rebuilding their lives will make a lasting difference. Communities are leaning on one another—and Texas, as always, is proving it stands strongest when united.
As floodwaters recede, the memory of those lost remains. Flying the Texas flag at half-staff is one way to say: we remember, we grieve, and we will stand together in the days ahead.
