In the wake of catastrophic flooding in Central Texas that left more than 125 people dead and dozens missing, federal and state officials have warned residents and donors about a surge in disaster-related scams designed to exploit vulnerable families and charitable givers.

By Ted Hesson and Nathan Layne WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Sunday defended FEMA's response to deadly floods in Texas last week, saying her agency acted swiftly and that Texas officials had praised the administration's actions.