Torrential rains Texas sent the Guadalupe River surging 8 meters in just 45 minutes, claiming at least 24 lives and leaving dozens of summer campers temporarily unreachable.
Guadalupe River Rises Rapidly, Triggers Catastrophic Flooding
At least 24 people have died after intense rainfall caused the Guadalupe River in central Texas to overflow at an unprecedented rate, submerging surrounding areas and stranding hundreds.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed the updated death toll at an evening press briefing, up from 13 earlier in the day. Emergency teams, supported by drones and helicopters, are working non-stop to locate missing individuals.
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Camp Mystic Girls Among the Missing
Among the most urgent concerns are 23 girls from Camp Mystic, a summer camp situated along the river. Although 750 campers have been confirmed safe, officials were initially unable to reach parts of the camp due to dangerous road conditions.
“That does not mean they’ve been lost. They could be in a tree, they could be out of communication,” said Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, who noted the river rose 8 meters in just 45 minutes.
Texas Game Wardens later confirmed that emergency crews successfully reached the camp, and rescue operations were underway.
Officials Warn of Continued Danger
Despite clearing skies, authorities warn that flood risks remain high. Areas from San Antonio to Waco face continued threat of flash flooding over the next 24–48 hours, according to Lt. Governor Patrick.
The Llano River in neighboring Mason County is also reported to be running above flood stage.
“Even light rain can worsen the situation,” Patrick said, urging residents to remain on alert.
Federal and State Resources Mobilized
Approximately 500 emergency responders and 14 helicopters have been deployed, including personnel from the Texas National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard, and FEMA. Texas Governor Greg Abbott posted dramatic footage of a helicopter rescue, where a stranded victim was pulled from a tree amid raging waters.
President Donald Trump addressed the nation, calling the floods “terrible” and “shocking,” and pledged federal assistance.
Impact and Recovery
Camp Mystic’s director described the flooding as “catastrophic,” and several local roads remain impassable. While most campers are now safe, search and rescue operations continue around the Guadalupe and Llano river basins.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid flood-prone areas, prepare evacuation kits, and monitor official warnings.
