Texas flash floods kill 89, dozens missing including children at Camp Mystic

At least 89 people have been confirmed dead due to catastrophic flash floods in Texas. Torrential rain swept through Kerr County and surrounding areas, particularly along the Guadalupe River, causing widespread devastation. Among those missing are several girls attending Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp in the region.

HEAVY RAINFALL HITS OVERNIGHT

As reported by the Associated Press, the flooding began in the early hours of Friday, catching many residents off guard while they were asleep. The National Weather Service had issued a flood watch Thursday afternoon, followed by an urgent warning around 4 a.m. Friday.

In just 45 minutes, the Guadalupe River rose by 26 feet after over a foot of rain fell overnight. The Texas Hill Country’s dry and compact soil, unable to absorb water quickly, worsened the situation.

People climb over debris on a bridge atop the Guadalupe River after a flash flood swept through the area.

Officials in Kerr County reported 75 fatalities, including 27 children.

As reported by Reuters, A Christian all-girls camp in central Texas said on Monday that 27 campers and counsellors were among those who perished in the catastrophic flooding over the July 4 weekend, while emergency responders still searching for dozens of missing people faced the prospect of more heavy rains and thunderstorms.

Governor Greg Abbott confirmed on Sunday that 41 individuals were officially listed as missing statewide. Local authorities are facing tough questions about the timing of flood alerts. Survivors described the event as a “pitch-black wall of death” and said no emergency warnings reached them before the waters surged. Officials acknowledged communication gaps, citing power outages and limited cell coverage in rural areas.

Efforts are now underway to evaluate the region’s emergency alert systems and potentially implement a more robust flood warning protocol. The flooding destroyed infrastructure, homes, and entire campsites.

Volunteers search for missing people along the banks of the Guadalupe River after recent flooding on Sunday.

“It will take a long time to clean up, let alone rebuild,” said Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly. Relief efforts have begun, and President Donald Trump has announced plans to visit the affected area on Friday.

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