Severe Flooding in Texas Claims Lives, Sparks Search Efforts
KERRVILLE, Texas — A sudden and intense downpour brought rain levels equivalent to several months’ worth of precipitation in just a few hours, leading to tragic consequences in the Hill Country region of Texas. On Friday, authorities confirmed that 24 people have lost their lives, and many others remain unaccounted for, including approximately 20 girls from a summer camp.
As the floodwaters rose, families took to social media, desperately seeking news of loved ones trapped in the area. The center of Kerr County experienced up to 10 inches of rain, which caused the Guadalupe River to overflow.
During a press conference, Sheriff Larry Leitha reported the grim toll and noted that 237 individuals have been rescued, with 167 being airlifted by helicopter.
The missing girls were attending Camp Mystic, a Christian camp situated near the Guadalupe River in Hunt. One camper, 13-year-old Elinor Lester, recounted how she and her cabin mates were rescued via helicopter after their camp was devastated.
“A storm woke us up, and then the flood came so fast,” Lester described. “It was terrifying to see the camp destroyed, and we had to tie ourselves together with a rope to cross the bridge safely.”
Rescue operations are still ongoing, and officials caution that the casualty count may rise as search efforts continue. The identities of the deceased are still being confirmed.
Calls for Help Increase Amid Rising Water
In Hunt, a river gauge reported a staggering rise of nearly 22 feet in approximately two hours before it became inoperable. Meteorologist Bob Fogarty remarked on the swift nature of the flood, highlighting how rapidly it can take residents by surprise.
Kerr County’s sheriff’s office has become a hub for families sending photos and postings about their missing relatives. Vice Governor Dan Patrick reported that a massive response effort was underway, with about 400 rescue personnel, 14 helicopters, and 12 drones actively searching for survivors.
Among the missing are around 23 of the 750 girls attending Camp Mystic, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
A Community Grieves and Responds
Erin Burgess woke at 3:30 a.m. to thunder, only to find floodwaters rapidly entering her home. She described clinging to a tree with her son as they navigated the mounting waters.
Matthew Stone, a Kerrville resident, criticized the lack of emergency alerts that could have helped residents prepare for the unexpected flood. “We received no warnings at all,” he said, recalling his shock at witnessing a “black wall of water.”
At a makeshift shelter in Ingram, families welcomed rescued survivors with emotional relief and concern. Many recounted harrowing stories of survival, including a 54-year-old man whose family had to take refuge in their attic.
“I had to reassure my grandson that everything would be okay, but I was terrified inside,” he admitted.
Understanding the Flood Risk
Despite forecasts for rain and a flood advisory for over 30,000 people, the severity of this flooding caught many off-guard. Officials explained that while warnings had been issued for heavy rains, nobody anticipated such a catastrophic torrent.
“This valley is known for its flooding risks, but we never expected this level of devastation,” noted Rob Kelly, the district judge.
The Hill Country area has a history of sudden flooding, largely due to its geological makeup, which doesn’t allow water to absorb quickly. Austin Dickson from the Texas Hill Country Community Foundation mentioned that the tourism industry is vital to the local economy, attracting visitors for its beautiful rivers and rental cabins.
“It’s usually a peaceful river, but when it rains, it can transform into a raging torrent,” he said, emphasizing the need for better flood preparedness in the future.
The community is now coming together to support one another and to address the aftermath of this tragic event, embodying resilience in the face of adversity.
