Officials in Kerr County made several attempts over the past decade to get funds for a flood warning system, but those applications were rejected. Christopher Flavelle, a reporter for The New York Times, breaks down what went wrong.

Kerr County failed to secure a warning system, even as local officials remained aware of the risks and as billions of dollars were available for similar projects.

© Carter Johnston for The New York Times

Some experts say staff shortages might have complicated forecasters’ ability to coordinate responses with local emergency management officials.

© Carter Johnston for The New York Times

Two ex-presidents and a rock star thanked the outgoing workers of a doomed agency.

© Eric Lee/The New York Times

The rapid dismantling of the global aid agency remains one of the most consequential outcomes of President Trump’s efforts to overhaul the federal government, showing his willingness to tear down institutions in defiance of the courts.

© Eric Lee/The New York Times