The flash floods in Texas' Hill Country resulted in a tragic loss of life, with the death toll reaching 24 as rescue operations continue. The Guadalupe River overflowed after receiving up to 10 inches of rain overnight, leading to catastrophic flooding primarily in Central Kerr County . The swift rise in water levels has prompted urgent search and rescue efforts, particularly focusing on summer camps along the river. Initial reports indicated that around 20 children from Camp Mystic were unaccounted for, raising concerns among families and authorities alike .
At least 24 people dead and many missing after a storm unleashed nearly a foot of rain just before dawn Friday and sent floodwaters gushing out of the Guadalupe River, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha told reporters Friday evening. The flood-prone region known as Hill Country is dotted with century-old summer camps that draw thousands of kids annually from across the Lone Star State.
State officials said 23 to 25 girls from Camp Mystic, a riverside Christian camp in Hunt, Texas, still were unaccounted for. They declined to estimate how many people were missing across the region but said a massive search was underway, with 237 rescued so far.
LCRA said it anticipates holding the floodwater in Lake Travis, which is currently around 43 feet below full, and it doesn't expect to open the floodgates at Mansfield Dam, which forms Lake Travis.
People are urged to take action to protect themselves and others, as well as property that may be affected. People are also advised to take extreme caution if they are anywhere near the lakes.
As of 1:30 p.m. Friday, a flash flood emergency remained in effect in South-Central Kerr County, including the Guadalupe River and areas like Hunt, Center Point, Kerrville and Comfort.
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly said the storms created “a very devastating and deadly flood,” and urged all Kerr County residents who live near the Guadalupe River to evacuate and move to higher ground.
State officials were “surging all available resources” to respond to the “devastating flooding,” Gov. Greg Abbott said.
In response to this disaster, Governor Greg Abbott has mobilized resources to assist affected areas and emphasized the importance of adhering to evacuation orders and safety warnings . Shelters have been established for displaced residents, while reunification centers are working diligently to connect families with missing loved ones. As ongoing rescues take precedence over recovery efforts, the community grapples with the emotional toll of this devastating event.
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