Torrential rainfall and flash flooding have devastated parts of Texas, particularly along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 people and leaving 23 girls missing from a summer camp.
Local authorities confirmed the fatalities occurred after severe overnight thunderstorms caused rapid flooding early Friday morning. Sheriff Larry Leitha of Kerr County reported that the situation developed with little warning, leaving communities unprepared.
“The flooding occurred with incredible speed, in less than two hours. Even radar systems couldn’t predict how fast it would escalate,” said Kerrville Mayor Dalton Rice during a press briefing.
The National Weather Service (NWS) declared a state of emergency in several parts of Kerr County after up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) of rain fell in a short period. Floodwaters overwhelmed rivers and creeks, making roads impassable and causing widespread infrastructure damage.
Summer Camp Emergency: 23 Girls Missing
Officials are focusing search efforts near Camp Mystic, a Christian girls’ summer camp located along the river. At the time of the flood, over 700 children were attending camps in the area.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick confirmed that 23 girls from the camp are still unaccounted for. While the majority of campers were safely located, authorities have not confirmed whether any of the missing are among the fatalities.
Patrick also revealed that the Guadalupe River rose by more than 8 meters (26 feet) within 45 minutes, making evacuation impossible. Rising water submerged access roads, isolating campers and staff.
Massive Search and Rescue Operation Underway
Emergency services mounted a large-scale response, deploying:
- 14 helicopters
- Dozens of drones
- Hundreds of personnel on the ground
Rescue teams were dispatched to retrieve people trapped in trees and swept away by floodwaters. Authorities reported that Camp Mystic lost power, water, and internet service during the disaster, further complicating rescue coordination.
Families have been advised to stay calm and await updates from emergency personnel.
More Rain Forecast, Flood Risk Persists
According to the NWS, the risk of additional flooding in West and Central Texas remains high over the next 24 to 48 hours, even with light rain, due to oversaturated ground. As a precaution, Independence Day (July 4th) celebrations, including fireworks, were canceled across the affected regions.
The city of Kerrville saw its riverfront celebration site completely submerged by floodwaters.
Authorities have confirmed that 13 victims were recovered in what they described as “catastrophic flooding.” The search for additional victims and missing individuals continues.
Officials Urge Caution as Threat Remains
“The danger isn’t over,” said Lt. Gov. Patrick. “Flooding remains a serious threat from San Antonio to Waco, and the risks across West and Central Texas are ongoing.”
Residents are urged to stay indoors, avoid flood-prone areas, and monitor official alerts. Emergency services remain on high alert as rescue and recovery operations continue throughout the weekend.
