Torrential rains in Texas triggered catastrophic flash floods, killing at least 24 people and leaving several more missing — including 23 young girls attending a summer camp in the Hill Country, officials said Friday.
The deluge dumped over 10 inches (25 cm) of rain in just a few hours overnight in Kerr County, causing the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically and sweep through communities with deadly force, according to the Associated Press.
“This is still an unfolding situation,” said Governor Greg Abbott, confirming the deaths and warning that the toll may rise. Officials are working to identify the victims as search and rescue efforts intensify.
A river gauge in the town of Hunt — where the Guadalupe splits — recorded a staggering 22-foot (6.7 meters) rise in just two hours, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Bob Fogarty. “The water’s moving so fast, you won’t realize how dangerous it is until it’s too late,” he said.
23 Summer Camp Girls Among the Missing
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick confirmed that 23 of the 750 campers at Camp Mystic — a historic girls’ summer camp in the Hill Country — are still unaccounted for. He said search teams are urgently combing the region for signs of the missing.
At least 400 personnel are involved in the rescue response, aided by 14 helicopters, 12 drones, and nine specialized teams. Patrick said rescuers have even pulled survivors from trees as powerful floodwaters tore through homes, cabins, and campgrounds.
The floodwaters disrupted more than just local communities. River tourism — a cornerstone of the Hill Country’s economy — has been brought to a halt. The region, known for its century-old camps and scenic river homes, now faces a long recovery.
Flooding Extends Beyond Texas
As Texas grapples with its emergency, severe weather also wreaked havoc in New Jersey. Thunderstorms caused at least three fatalities in the central part of the state, including two men in Plainfield who died after a tree collapsed on their vehicle. The city canceled its July 4th celebrations, including a parade, concert, and fireworks.
Back in Texas, heartbreaking messages and desperate pleas continue to flood social media from people searching for loved ones. Rescue efforts remain ongoing, with officials urging the public to stay away from affected areas as crews work around the clock.
“This is a tragedy of immense scale,” Patrick said. “But we will not stop searching until every missing person is found.”
