Texas is reeling from flash floods that tore through the state on Independence Day, killing at least 24 people and leaving up to 25 girls missing from a summer camp.
The disaster, triggered by a sudden 26-foot rise in the Guadalupe River in just 45 minutes, swept away homes, camps, and vehicles in the Hill Country and Concho Valley regions. Officials say the floods came with no warning.
“It was a destructive flood, taking property and sadly lives,” said Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick during a press briefing.
Rescue Efforts and Presidential Order
More than 400 rescue workers have been deployed, including 14 helicopters, 12 drones, and nine ground teams. Over 230 people have been rescued so far, according to Maj Gen Thomas Suelzer of the Texas National Guard.
Governor Greg Abbott has declared disaster zones and confirmed federal support. U.S. President Donald Trump, reacting to the tragedy, called the incident “shocking” and “terrible.”
Camp Mystic, a summer retreat in Kerr County, was hit hard. Most of the missing are girls who attended the camp. Emergency crews have reached the site, but telecoms outages continue to delay communication with families.
Patrick urged parents not to panic. “If you haven’t been contacted, assume your children are safe,” he said, adding that many may simply be “out of communication.”
Anger, Warnings, and a Race Against Time
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly said there was no way to foresee the scale of destruction. “We didn’t know this flood was coming… no one knew this kind of flood was coming,” he stated.
“We do not have a warning system,” Kelly admitted, comparing the devastation to the deadly 1987 Comfort flood, which claimed 10 young lives. “This far surpassed it,” he added.
Catastrophic flooding in Kerr County, Texas has left 13 people dead and 23 girls missing from Camp Mystic. The Guadalupe River rose about 9 meters after 18 cm of rain. 500 rescuers and 40 helicopters deployed. A once-in-a-lifetime disaster. #Texas #flood #kerrville #alert #usa pic.twitter.com/3ZJFo0u2b0
— WeatherUpdateEU (@WeatherUpdateEU) July 4, 2025
Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring confirmed that no flood alert system is in place. Images from the area show submerged bridges, overturned cars, and frantic families searching for loved ones.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller pleaded with residents: “Folks, please don’t take chances. Stay alert, follow local emergency warnings, and do not drive through flooded roads.”
Online forums have filled with emotional appeals from families looking for missing relatives. Many are still awaiting updates as rescue teams comb through remote and waterlogged areas.
Storms Beyond Texas
The severe weather also brought tragedy to New Jersey. Storm-related accidents claimed three lives, including a 79-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, both killed by falling trees.
Back in Texas, authorities warn that rescue operations will continue through the weekend. Residents near rivers, streams, or low-lying ground have been urged to evacuate immediately.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
