In the wake of catastrophic flooding that struck Central Texas on July 4, communities across the state continue to grieve as the death toll rises and the search for more than 170 missing people presses on.
As of Thursday, at least 119 people have been confirmed dead, including at least three dozen children, making it one of the deadliest flood disasters in recent Texas history. The hardest-hit area, Kerr County, accounts for 95 of the deaths, with fatalities also reported in surrounding counties:
- Kendall County: 8 deaths
- Travis County: 7 deaths
- Burnet County: 5 deaths
- Williamson County: 3 deaths
- Tom Green County: 1 death
A Devastating Impact
The floodwaters from the Guadalupe River surged through homes, neighborhoods, and youth camps during the early morning hours, catching many residents off guard. Among the victims were campers and staff from Camp Mystic, a well-known Christian girls camp, which alone reported at least 27 deaths. Five campers and one counselor from the camp remain missing.
Rescue operations have transitioned to recovery as officials report no live rescues have been made since the day of the flood. Local leaders, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott, have vowed that recovery efforts will continue until every missing person is accounted for.
Community Response and Vigil
On Wednesday evening, hundreds gathered for a community vigil at a high school in Kerrville to honor those lost and pray for those still missing. Josh Smithson, a local youth leader with Young Life, described the massive volunteer response as a testament to the community’s resilience.
“The kingdom of God looks like thousands of volunteers walking along the riverbanks clearing a path,” Smithson said. “The kingdom of God looks like Kerr County rising together in a time of need.”
Legislative Action: Governor Abbott’s Special Session
Governor Abbott has announced that the deadly flooding will be a central focus of a special legislative session beginning July 21. Among the priorities are:
- Improving flood warning systems in vulnerable areas
- Strengthening emergency communication infrastructure
- Allocating relief funding for flood recovery, including FEMA match funding
- Streamlining disaster preparedness and recovery regulations
Abbott has faced criticism for the lack of advance warning and the resulting high death toll. When asked about responsibility, Abbott rejected the idea of assigning blame.
“That’s the word choice of losers,” he said, likening recovery efforts to a football team refusing to give up. “We’re going to win this game.”
Weather Outlook
After days of heavy rainfall, drier weather has finally arrived in the Texas Hill Country. The National Weather Service predicts that the break in rain will continue through Friday, providing critical relief for search and recovery operations. However, the weekend forecast includes more rain, and forecasters warn of isolated storms and dangerous heat, with feels-like temperatures potentially topping 100°F.
A State in Mourning
As families wait for answers and recovery crews work tirelessly along rivers and in debris-laden areas, the emotional toll across Texas is immense. In towns like Kerrville, home to just over 25,000 residents, the tragedy has left deep scars—but also prompted an outpouring of support and solidarity from across the state.
Officials urge anyone with information about missing individuals to contact local authorities and continue to monitor alerts as efforts remain ongoing.
