Texans deserve Hurricane Harvey because they voted for Donald Trump, Florida professor says

Academic says storm 'kinda feels like' karma after presidential election result

A professor at the University of Tampa has apologised for posting a tweet suggesting Texas victims of Hurricane Harvey deserved the storm because the state supported Donald Trump in the presidential election.

Ken Storey, a professor of sociology, wrote on Twitter: “I don’t believe in instant karma but this kinda feels like it for Texas. Hopefully this will help them realise the GOP doesn’t care about them.”

The tweet was later removed, according to Campus Reform.

Mr Storey issued an apology on Monday afternoon, tweeting he "never meant to wish ill will upon any group".

Eric Cardenas, director of public information at the University of Tampa, issued a statement to Fox News about the incident.

“The University of Tampa stands in solidarity with the people impacted by Hurricane Harvey, and our thoughts and prayers are with all involved.

“The comments made by Kenneth Storey were made via his private social media account. They were not made within his capacity as a faculty member, and they don’t represent the University’s views.

“The University of Tampa condemns these comments and the sentiment behind them. Storey has publicly apologised for his comments.”

At least nine people are reported to have died as a result of Hurricane Harvey, the worst storm to strike the US in 12 years.

More than 3,000 people have been rescued in Houston and the surrounding area since the storm hit, with thousands still waiting to be picked up.