US federal agency overseeing disaster response and recovery
Super Typhoon Sinlaku has been impacting the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, with sustained winds reaching 150-175 mph. The storm is causing widespread damage, flooding, and power outages. Authorities are warning residents to shelter in place as the storm continues to move slowly, with conditions expected to worsen overnight.
The Texas Camp Mystic owners have informed regulators they are withdrawing their application for a 2026 summer license as investigations continue into flood-evacuation failures that killed 25 campers last July. Regulators have issued a deficiency-letter and are reviewing emergency plans before any reopening can occur.
The Trump administration has nominated Robert Hamilton to lead FEMA as its permanent administrator. The move has followed a Trump-appointed council report recommending sweeping reforms to FEMA that would shift more disaster responsibility to states and change how federal aid is triggered and delivered.
AP News reports a widening probe ties multiple Puerto Rico officials to alleged corruption and interference in a key agency, prompting resignations and fresh scrutiny from Congress while the island battles outages and recovery delays.
The Senate confirms a permanent FEMA administrator candidate who has pledged objectivity and faster disaster decisions, amid concerns about partisan influence and staff downsizing.
Camp Mystic has filed for Chapter 11 in a Texas bankruptcy court, reporting debts exceeding $10 million and assets between $1 million and $10 million. Investigations found inadequate emergency planning during last July’s flood that killed 25 campers, two counselors, and the camp’s owner. The bankruptcy filing follows outrage from families and lawmakers and the camp’s decision to halt reopening plans.
AP News reports that monsoon rains have been erratic and late, hindering planting in northern India. Water restrictions in Mumbai reflect dwindling reservoirs as El Niño and a warming climate reduce rainfall. Farmers fear losses and debt as June–July sowing windows close without adequate rain.
Auditors find that only a fraction of federal funds obligated for Puerto Rico’s grid recovery have been disbursed. The GAO warns that staff turnover, review delays and the debt burden at PREPA hinder progress. Outages persist as vegetation overgrowth remains a key cause.