The death toll from the catastrophic flash floods that devastated central Texas continues to rise, with at least 81 confirmed dead and over 40 individuals still missing.
The floods struck early Friday morning, causing the Guadalupe River to swell to the height of a two-story building within minutes.
Entire communities and campsites were caught off guard, including Camp Mystic in Kerr County, where at least 10 campers and one counselor remain unaccounted for.
President Donald Trump signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County on Sunday morning, following a formal request from Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The declaration will help funnel federal resources into search and rescue operations that continue across the region.
Kerr County Hit Hardest as Families Mourn
Kerr County has suffered the greatest loss, with 68 fatalities reported so far. According to Sheriff Larry Leitha, the victims include 40 adults and 28 children.
Many have yet to be identified, highlighting the scale of the tragedy and the challenges faced by recovery teams.
Governor Abbott, who visited Camp Mystic on Saturday, described the destruction as unlike anything he had ever seen.
“The height the rushing water reached to the top of cabins was shocking,” Abbott said. He assured families that operations would continue day and night until every missing person is found.
The governor also emphasized that the number of missing could be higher than official figures suggest, noting that many people were camping or staying in RVs near the river and remain unaccounted for.
Rescue Efforts and Federal Response
Search and rescue teams, supported by drones, helicopters, boats, and high-water vehicles, have saved hundreds from the floodwaters.
The U.S. Coast Guard alone rescued more than 220 people, according to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Over 160 air rescues have been conducted in total, alongside 850 uninjured and eight injured individuals saved by various agencies.
President Trump, addressing the crisis, said he plans to visit Texas soon. He praised first responders and pledged federal support, writing, “Melania and I are praying for all the families impacted by this horrible tragedy. GOD BLESS TEXAS!”
Flood’s Sudden Onset Caught Communities Off Guard
Officials explained that the Guadalupe River flooded so quickly due to an extreme rain event that overwhelmed both the north and south forks of the river.
Within minutes, water levels rose dramatically, converging to create record-setting heights at Hunt. Despite planning meetings in advance, authorities admitted they were unprepared for the sheer volume of rain, which far exceeded forecasts.
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly described the devastation as unimaginable. “We knew we’d get rain, we know the river rises, but nobody saw this coming,” Kelly said.
Other Counties Affected
Beyond Kerr County, the floods claimed lives in Travis, Burnet, Kendall, Williamson, and Tom Green counties. Officials warn that recovery and rebuilding will take considerable time and effort.
Community foundations and local charities have begun collecting donations to aid the response.
Camp Mystic and other summer camps, many located along the vulnerable “flash flood alley,” were particularly hard hit. Families, friends, and officials hold out hope that the remaining missing can be found alive, as operations continue across the region.
