Kerr County Emergency Management Director William "Dub" Thomas acknowledged that he was sick and asleep as catastrophic flooding struck the area, resulting in over 100 fatalities. This admission came during a hearing held by a panel of 18 state lawmakers on Thursday in Kerrville, Texas.

Thomas, who has served as the emergency management director since 2015, explained his actions during the crisis. He stated that after a full workday on July 2, he returned home feeling unwell. At that time, he noted that there were no significant weather concerns reported, stating, "beyond what is typical for the region during the summer."

On July 3, Thomas remained at home due to illness and did not attend two critical meetings related to the Texas emergency management coordination center. He mentioned that his supervisors, including the Kerr County sheriff, were aware of his absence.

Thomas recounted that he briefly woke up around 2 p.m. on July 3 but observed no rainfall and no signs of an impending emergency. He went back to sleep, unaware of the rising water levels. "I was awakened around 5:30 a.m., on July the Fourth by my wife following a call from the city of Kerrville EMC (Emergency Management Coordinator) Jeremy Hughes requesting that I mobilize," he said. This call marked the first moment he realized an emergency was developing.

By approximately 6 a.m., Thomas began coordinating the county's response, working closely with the sheriff, the emergency operation center, and Hughes. However, by that time, summer camps along the overflowing Guadalupe River were already submerged.

The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.