As deadly floods ravaged parts of Central Texas over the July 4th holiday, a dramatic timelapse video showing the Llano River surging through the town of Llano has gone viral on social media—offering a chilling view of just how quickly disaster unfolded.
The footage, shared widely on X, captures the river’s sudden transformation—from a calm, steady flow to a violent, overflowing torrent swallowing everything in its path. The flash flood was so rapid that many residents had little to no time to react.
“True flash flood. There is hardly any time to react, especially at 4am,” one viewer commented. Another wrote, “Absolutely horrifying… this is becoming a way too familiar scene.”
Disaster Declaration and Ongoing Tragedy
In response to the flooding, Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for several hard-hit counties, including Llano County and Kerr County, where multiple fatalities have been reported. Among the most heartbreaking developments is the ongoing search for missing children at Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp along the Guadalupe River.
Meanwhile, other areas—including Georgetown—have also been severely impacted, as seen in aerial footage of neighborhoods submerged by the overflowing San Gabriel River.
Public Shock and Frustration
The viral footage triggered an outpouring of alarm and frustration on social media. One user noted: “That’s scary! No wonder people couldn’t evacuate in time. But why were they not warned?” Others questioned the lack of preparation, with one post reading: “I wish there was a better way to help people in flood-prone areas survive these situations.”
Another user shared a harrowing perspective: “Sometimes it’s sunny and clear with no clouds—and boom, water moving at 40mph from 5 miles away. Scary stuff.”
Scientists Warn of Bigger Threats Ahead
Experts say extreme weather like this is becoming more common—and more intense. Kristina Dahl, vice president for science at Climate Central, told CNN that Central Texas has seen about a 20% increase in rainfall during the most intense storms since 1970, a pattern consistent with national and global trends.
“As our climate warms, the atmosphere holds more moisture, making intense rainstorms like this more likely,” Dahl explained. “The tragic loss of life here shows just how unprepared we are for disasters of this magnitude—let alone what’s to come as the planet continues to warm.”
As search and rescue efforts continue, officials are urging communities along Texas rivers to remain alert, warning that floodwaters could continue to surge all the way to the coast.
