Challenge of predicting Texas floods and SCOTUS allows for mass federal layoffs: Morning Rundown

Meteorologists and forecasting experts say the severity of the deadly Texas floods couldn’t have been predicted.

Meteorologists and forecasting experts say the severity of the deadly Texas floods couldn’t have been predicted. The Supreme Court allows Donald Trump to move forward with mass firings. And more pet owners are opting into insurance for their furry family members.

Here’s what to know today.

At least 161 people are missing after catastrophic floods tore through the Texas Hill Country, Gov. Greg Abbott said yesterday, as the desperate search for survivors continues. The death toll rose to at least 110 people.

Meanwhile, scrutiny and questions are mounting about how and when people in the area received flash flood alerts. Among those questions: What actions were taken to notify residents? Were emergency alerts adequate, and who issued them? It was also unclear whether alerts were received on all phones. At a news conference yesterday, local officials and law enforcement in Kerr County couldn’t provide basic details of the emergency response.

This is Morning Rundown, a weekday newsletter to start your day. Sign up here to get it in your inbox.