Hard Knock Radio Summary: Davey D Talks Floods, Climate Crisis, and Community Response with Alexia Leclercq

On this episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D spoke with Alexia Leclercq, an Austin-based climate justice organizer, about the devastating floods in Central Texas and the broader implications of climate inaction. The conversation shed light on government negligence, environmental racism, and grassroots community efforts in the wake of disaster.
No Warning, No Help

The segment began with context: catastrophic flash floods near San Antonio left at least 80 dead or missing. Despite official claims that residents ignored warnings, Leclercq emphasized that many never received meaningful alerts, due to budget cuts to the National Weather Service and outdated or understaffed emergency systems. Flash flood warnings, she explained, were vague and often sent in the middle of the night, leaving residents unaware of how dangerous conditions truly were.
Climate Crisis and Systemic Neglect

Leclercq tied the tragedy to broader climate issues, noting that Central Texas"already known as "flash flood alley""is increasingly vulnerable due to prolonged droughts and soil conditions. She explained that the climate crisis is turning so-called 100-year floods into regular occurrences, a direct result of fossil fuel-driven warming and decades of poor environmental policy.

Davey D noted how disasters in communities of color"from Texas to St. Louis"are routinely underreported or blamed on the victims, while places like California see swift criticism of leadership during crises. Leclercq stressed that working-class and BIPOC communities are hit hardest and offered a sobering take: "The climate crisis is literally killing people."
Fossil Fuels, Denial, and Disaster

The conversation pivoted to Texass deep ties to the oil and gas industry. Leclercq condemned the rollback of green policies and tax credits, and explained the urgency of staying below 2.5C of global warming. She broke it down simply: even small increases in temperature"just like a fever"have dramatic impacts on ecosystems and human survival. Texas, she warned, is on track to exceed that threshold soon.
Community Relief Over Government Support

With FEMA absent, recovery efforts have been largely community-driven. Leclercq highlighted organizations like Community Powered ATX, The Healing Project, Southern Oaks Church, and Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country"all stepping up with donations, food, and supplies.
Closing Thoughts

Davey D and Leclercq agreed that natural disasters are no longer just "acts of God""theyre symptoms of policy choices. And as the planet grows hotter, communities like those in Central Texas will remain on the frontlines. Davey D ended with a reminder: "Mother Earth will be fine"the question is whether well be here to dance with her."

Later on in the show we hear a commentary from Brown Girl Pride on the two Party system
Afterwards we look back 20 years ago when the London Bombings took place.. and HKR was there on the scene..