A desperate search for survivors is currently taking place in central Texas, where flash floods have tragically claimed the lives of at least 32 individuals, including 14 children. The floods struck during the night as the Guadalupe River rose over 26 feet (8 meters) in a matter of minutes on Friday, catching many by surprise. Local officials in Kerr County reported that 27 children are still missing from a Christian youth camp situated along the riverbank. Fortunately, approximately 850 individuals have been rescued amid the chaos.
As weather forecasts predict further rain and potentially more flooding, many fear the ongoing crisis could worsen. The hardest-hit locations included mobile homes, summer camps, and recreational sites where families had gathered to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday.
During a press conference on Saturday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced he had issued an expanded disaster declaration to enhance search and rescue operations. He vowed to locate every person affected by this disaster, stating, "We will stop when the job is completed." Authorities emphasized that their mission is focused on search and rescue, not recovery, as they comb the Guadalupe River for any potential victims.
The rescue efforts have largely centered around Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp where the 27 missing campers were last reported. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick shared on BBC Radio that many of the missing children are under the age of 12, highlighting the alarming situation. The camp has communicated with parents about the status of the campers, stating that those not yet contacted are considered missing.
Some families have bravely come forward with the heartbreaking news that their children have been confirmed dead. In response to the disaster, President Donald Trump assured the public that his administration is collaborating closely with local authorities to address the emergency. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed the President's devastation over the loss of life and pledged strong federal support, while also indicating that the Coast Guard would soon be deployed to assist in rescue efforts.
In addition to Kerr County, the flooding has also impacted Travis County, where officials have confirmed two additional deaths and ten individuals reported missing. Forecasters caution that more flooding is likely this weekend, with the National Weather Service predicting an additional 2 to 5 inches (5 to 12 cm) of rain, and localized areas possibly experiencing up to 10 inches, further complicating the urgent situation.
