At least 24 people are confirmed dead and more than 20 campers are still missing after sudden and catastrophic flooding swept through Central Texas overnight. The tragedy unfolded when torrential rains caused the Guadalupe River to overflow, inundating communities and trapping residents and campers in rising waters. As rescue operations continue, Texas remains gripped by one of its most devastating natural disasters in recent years.
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Flash Floods Devastate Central Texas
In the early hours of July 5, Central Texas experienced a deadly flash flood following intense thunderstorms the night before. Rainfall exceeding 10 inches fell within a few hours, overwhelming the Guadalupe River in Kerr County. Within minutes, the river surged over 20 feet, causing swift and severe flooding across several towns, including Hunt, Kerrville, Ingram, and Comfort.
The flash flooding took many residents by surprise, with little time to evacuate. Roads were washed out, cars swept away, and dozens of homes were left submerged or destroyed. Entire neighborhoods lost power as emergency sirens blared through the night.
At Least 24 Confirmed Dead
As of this morning, authorities have confirmed that at least 24 people have lost their lives due to the flooding. The victims include both local residents and out-of-town visitors who had traveled to the area for the holiday weekend. First responders have described the devastation as the worst flooding event the region has seen in over a decade.
Search and recovery teams continue to comb through the hardest-hit areas, particularly along the banks of the Guadalupe River. Rescuers have pulled bodies from overturned vehicles, collapsed buildings, and swollen riverbeds. With parts of the region still inaccessible due to floodwaters, officials fear the death toll may rise further.
Camp Mystic Crisis: 20+ Campers Missing
One of the most tragic developments is the ongoing crisis at Camp Mystic, a summer camp for girls located near the river. More than 20 young campers are currently unaccounted for after the camp was overrun by water in the early morning hours.
Witnesses report that some of the children were swept away while sleeping in their cabins. Others were last seen clinging to trees and rooftops, waiting to be rescued. Families from across Texas have rushed to the area, hoping for any news about their daughters.
The missing campers range in age from 8 to 14, with many of their names and photos circulating on social media in the hope that someone will recognize them or have information. Helicopters, drones, and search dogs are all being used to locate the missing children.
Search and Rescue Efforts Intensify
More than 100 emergency personnel have been deployed to the area, including state troopers, fire departments, Coast Guard teams, and volunteers. Rescue boats are patrolling flooded neighborhoods, while helicopters continue to lift stranded individuals from rooftops and tree canopies.
Emergency shelters have been set up in nearby school gyms and community centers to provide aid to displaced residents. Volunteers are assisting with food, blankets, and medical support for those affected.
Despite ongoing efforts, search teams are facing significant challenges. Rising water levels, dangerous currents, and blocked roads are slowing operations. Authorities have issued warnings for residents to avoid travel and remain indoors until conditions improve.
Why Central Texas Floods So Quickly
Central Texas is known for its flash flood risks due to its unique geography. The region’s limestone soil and steep terrain cause water to run off quickly rather than being absorbed, turning heavy rain into violent flood surges within minutes.
Local officials noted that the area’s rivers, including the Guadalupe and Llano, can rise at extreme rates during such weather events. In some locations, the river rose over 25 feet in under two hours—a rate that left little time for preparation or escape.
Summary of Key Developments
- Confirmed Deaths: 24
- Missing Individuals: Over 20 campers from Camp Mystic
- Areas Affected: Kerrville, Ingram, Comfort, Hunt
- Rainfall: More than 10 inches overnight
- Rescue Operations: Ongoing with helicopters, boats, and volunteers
- Emergency Declarations: Issued for multiple counties
The Human Impact
Survivors have shared emotional accounts of their escape from the floodwaters. Some described being awakened by water rushing into their homes, while others narrowly escaped being trapped in vehicles. One parent of a missing camper said, “We dropped her off at camp two days ago, and now we’re praying we’ll see her again.”
The emotional toll is growing as families wait for updates, hoping that their loved ones are among those still to be found.
What Happens Next
Authorities continue to focus on locating the missing and assisting those left homeless. With rain still in the forecast, there are concerns about additional flooding in the coming days. Emergency responders urge the public to stay away from flood zones and report any signs of missing persons or debris.
Efforts are underway to restore power and reopen damaged roads, but officials warn that full recovery may take weeks or even months. Mental health services are also being deployed to support survivors and grieving families.
Stay alert to further updates, and consider helping relief efforts through official donation channels or volunteering locally. Every action counts in this time of tragedy.