A tragic flash flood in Texas Hill Country has left at least 27 people dead and dozens more missing, as officials continue search and rescue efforts.
The flooding, described as a “mass casualty event,” struck suddenly along the Guadalupe River, overwhelming summer camps and local communities with little warning.
As the state grapples with the disaster’s aftermath, officials and residents alike are calling for prayers and assistance.
Sudden Flooding Overwhelms Hill Country
The flooding began early Friday morning when intense rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to rise rapidly, swelling by over 26 feet in just 45 minutes.
Kerrville city manager Dalton Rice explained that heavy rain overwhelmed both the north and south forks of the river, leading to catastrophic conditions as the waters converged.
The river at Hunt reached its second-highest level on record, surpassing the levels seen during the notorious 1987 flood.
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick noted that no rain had fallen until shortly before the flooding began. The speed and intensity of the event left authorities with little time to respond.
Despite multiple planning meetings by the Texas Division of Emergency Management, officials admitted that the rainfall far exceeded forecasts. The National Weather Service had predicted up to 8 inches, but some areas saw between 5 and 11 inches in just hours.
Search and Rescue Efforts Continue
Emergency crews have worked around the clock to save those trapped by the floodwaters. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha reported over 160 air rescues and the recovery of 850 uninjured individuals, along with 8 injured. Sadly, at least 27 fatalities have been confirmed, including 18 adults and 9 children. Several of the victims have yet to be identified.
State and local agencies have mobilized extensive resources, including boats, high-water vehicles, rescue helicopters, divers, and drones.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a disaster declaration for affected counties, pledging that no resource would be spared in the ongoing rescue efforts.
“We will stop at nothing to ensure that every person is accounted for,” Abbott said during a news briefing.
Summer Camps Devastated by Floodwaters
Among the hardest-hit locations was Camp Mystic, a summer camp for girls, where between 23 and 25 campers remain unaccounted for.
The camp reported catastrophic flooding, with no power, water, or communication. The area’s isolation has complicated rescue operations, as washed-out highways and rising waters block access.
Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes as floodwaters swept away vehicles and cabins. Thirteen-year-old Elinor Lester recounted how her cabin was evacuated by helicopter while younger campers along the riverbank faced the brunt of the flooding.
Her mother shared that her son, attending a nearby camp, survived thanks to quick action by a counselor who helped the boys escape through a window.
Officials Urge Caution and Offer Prayers
Authorities continue to urge residents and visitors to stay out of the affected areas as search and recovery work continues.
“If you do not live in the area, do not come,” officials stressed. Both President Trump and Senator Ted Cruz offered support, with the president promising federal assistance through the Department of Homeland Security.
Trump expressed condolences and praised first responders for their heroism.
