Flash floods along the Guadalupe River devastates summer camp, homes, and communities across central Texas
Death Toll Rises Amid Massive Search Effort
At least 81 people have died and 41 remain missing after flash floods swept through central Texas on Friday. The floods were triggered by a sudden surge in the Guadalupe River, which rose an astonishing 26 feet (8 meters) in just 45 minutes.
The disaster has left a trail of devastation across Kerr County and neighboring Travis, Burnet, Williamson, Kendall, and Tom Green counties.
Officials say the death toll will likely rise as rescue and recovery operations continue across debris-laden landscapes.
Hyderabad Residents Receive Untreated River WaterAt least 81 dead and dozens missing in Texas floods as more rain looms
Camp Mystic Tragedy: Children Among the Victims
A major focus of the tragedy is Camp Mystic, a popular Christian girls’ summer camp located along the Guadalupe River.
The camp was inundated before dawn as most children were still asleep. Several young campers and the camp’s longtime director, Richard “Dick” Eastland, are confirmed dead.
Rescue volunteer Greg Froelick, a former Navy SEAL, told the BBC that some victims were discovered up to eight miles downriver, with personal items and clothing scattered throughout the area.
Ongoing Risk as More Rain Looms
Many areas remain under flood watch until Monday evening, with additional rainfall expected to complicate rescue efforts.
Governor Greg Abbott vowed to “stop at nothing” in the search for the missing and described the situation at the camp as “nothing short of horrific.”
Search crews are battling treacherous terrain, thick mud, and venomous snakes as they work around the clock in one of the largest flood response operations in Texas history.
President Trump Declares Major Disaster
President Donald Trump has signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County, activating FEMA resources and federal support.
“We’re working very closely with representatives from Texas, and it’s a horrible thing that took place — absolutely horrible,” Trump said from New Jersey.
He also indicated he may visit Texas on Friday to assess the damage firsthand.
Residents Rally to Help
Despite the destruction, stories of local heroism and community resilience are emerging:
- Alma Garcia drove in from San Antonio to deliver home-cooked meals and offered her own shirt to a flood survivor.
- Perla, a local Walmart employee, began collecting clothes and shoes immediately after finishing her shift to donate to emergency shelters.
Quote: “I’ve never seen something like this before,” she said.
Global Support and Papal Condolences
Messages of sympathy and solidarity have poured in from around the world. Pope Leo XIV offered special prayers from Rome on Sunday:
“We pray for all the families who have lost loved ones — especially the young girls at summer camp,” said the pontiff.
The Road Ahead
Rescue teams continue to comb through debris along the Guadalupe River as Texas braces for more rain. The scale of the destruction is still unfolding, with homes destroyed, roads severed, and power lines down.
Officials urge residents to remain alert, avoid flooded roads, and prepare for more severe weather.
