JULY 5, 2025 — This message comes from UTSA President Taylor Eighmy and is intended for all faculty, staff, and students.
Recently, communities along the Guadalupe River in the Hill Country faced severe flooding. This disaster has deeply affected those living there, as well as visitors who were in the area during the holiday weekend. Our own students, faculty, staff, and their families are among those impacted.
As the situation develops, we’re coordinating with local partners to track missing persons while search and rescue efforts are underway. The university is supporting first responders and providing resources to help those affected. Our Student Affairs and People Excellence teams are reaching out to offer counseling and academic help to students and employees in need.
In the coming days and weeks, it will be essential for us to come together as a community. Many will require support, so let’s make sure we check in on each other during these tough times. We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
This flooding highlights the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. According to a recent report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there has been a significant rise in severe weather patterns across the U.S. These events can disrupt lives and demand a strong response from local communities and institutions.
Historically, floods like this have devastating effects. For instance, in the 1927 Great Mississippi Flood, thousands were displaced and recovery took years. Today, we must learn from such events, strengthening our disaster response systems to better support those in need.
It’s also interesting to note that social media has played a crucial role in these situations. People often share updates and support on platforms like Twitter and Facebook, helping each other stay informed. As we face challenges like this, the power of community—both online and in-person—becomes vital.
As we navigate this difficult time, let’s remember the power of compassion and connection. Together, we can make a difference.
For more information on community support efforts, you can read this report from NOAA.