Tragic Flash Flooding in Texas: 24 Lives Lost and Over 20 Missing as Rescuers Battle Devastation
The Texas Hill Country is reeling from catastrophic flooding that has claimed 24 lives, with search efforts ongoing for more than 20 individuals still unaccounted for, primarily from Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp hosting 750 children in Hunt, Texas. The floods were triggered by heavy overnight rains that caused the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically, flooding Kerr County and nearby areas early Friday morning.
Authorities reported that many bodies were discovered in vehicles swept away by the surging waters. Texas Governor Greg Abbott described the unfolding disaster as an “extraordinary catastrophe,” pledging that search and rescue operations would persist through the night. “They will continue in the darkness,” Abbott stated at a press conference, emphasizing the relentless nature of rescue efforts.
The Kerr County Sheriff, Larry L. Leitha Jr., confirmed that the death toll had risen from 13 to 24 throughout the day. Other fatalities have been reported in neighboring Kendall County. Texas Director of Public Safety, Colonel Freeman Martin, characterized the situation as a “mass casualty event.” By Friday night, more than 237 individuals had been rescued, with 167 of those being airlifted to safety via helicopters.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Federal Emergency Management Agency have been mobilized to assist in the relief efforts. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick mentioned he had been in contact with President Donald Trump, who acknowledged the severity of the floods, promising federal support to Texas. Helicopters were deployed to transport children from Camp Mystic to safety, as footage aired of the rescues.
Despite the ongoing search, uncertainty lingers for approximately 20 missing campers. Patrick stressed that just because they are unaccounted for does not mean they are necessarily lost. “They could be in a tree or out of communication,” he noted, adding that state officials are praying for their safe return.
Reports indicate that areas of Kerr County received over 10 inches of rain within 24 hours, pushing the Guadalupe River to unprecedented levels. Witnesses shared harrowing accounts of loss, describing missing homes and fleeing families. A resident expressed despair, stating, “Nobody expected this.” The local Walmart provided him with shoes after he lost everything in the flood.
Camp Mystic released a statement assuring parents that they would be informed if their daughters were missing. Many areas remain without power, water, and internet access, complicating rescue efforts. The camp, known for welcoming girls aged 7 to 17, is situated near the Guadalupe River, which surged up to 30 feet in height, a record-breaking increase.
Senator Ted Cruz urged prayers for those affected, noting his communication with state and federal officials. The National Weather Service had warned of continued flooding risks across the state, with severe flash flood warnings extending from San Antonio to Waco.
This devastating event underscores the vulnerability of communities in Texas to sudden natural disasters, as residents grapple with the aftermath and a sense of uncertainty looms over the ongoing search and rescue missions. With flood warnings remaining in effect, local officials are urging residents to stay vigilant as the threat persists.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/04/at-least-20-girls-are-missing-from-a-summer-camp-in-texas-after-catastrophic-floods.html
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Publish Date: 2025-07-05 12:28:00
