Federal flood risk maps had once identified Texas’ Camp Mystic as highly vulnerable to flooding, yet years before the July 4 disaster that killed at least 27 children, officials reportedly approved the removal of several camp buildings from those maps.

According to U.S. media reports, including The New York Times and AP, the camp successfully appealed Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designations that required flood insurance and stricter building codes. Camp Mystic, situated along the low-lying banks of the Guadalupe River, later experienced one of the deadliest flash floods in Texas history.

Flood experts say the exemptions were dangerously irresponsible, especially considering the camp’s riverside location and the presence of children. FEMA flood maps—used to assess flood risk and enforce regulations—still showed many of the cabins lying inside designated floodways and floodplains, according to the reports.

Critics now question how the appeals were granted, why flood risks were downplayed, and why proper evacuation protocols weren’t in place ahead of the deluge. The flood struck in the early hours, when most campers were asleep.

Nationwide, the death toll from the recent Texas floods has climbed to 129, with dozens still missing. President Donald Trump visited the affected areas, promising relief, but sidestepped questions about the lack of preparedness.

The tragedy has triggered a deeper debate about FEMA’s appeals process and whether vulnerable locations—especially children’s camps—are being given unjustified exemptions from safety regulations.

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