At least 43 people, including 15 children, have died in the devastating flash floods that swept through central Texas, with dozens still missing. The deadly floodwaters struck Kerr County and surrounding areas after up to 15 inches of rain fell around the Guadalupe River, about 85 miles northwest of San Antonio.
How Did the Texas Flash Floods Unfold?
The floods hit suddenly on Friday morning, with river levels rising to a staggering 29 feet. Emergency crews rescued over 850 people, some found clinging to trees and rooftops. Officials say the death toll is expected to rise, with several counties reporting fatalities and unaccounted-for residents. Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice reported that 27 girls from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp hosting 700 girls at the time, are among the missing.
“We will not put a number on the other side because we just don’t know,” said Rice.
Camp Mystic was left in ruins. Inside one cabin, mud streaks reached six feet high on the walls, and water-damaged beds and belongings were scattered across the grounds. Buildings had shattered windows and even missing walls.
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly described the flooding as unprecedented. “We know that the rivers rise, but nobody saw this coming.”
What Damage Did the Floods Cause Across the Region?
The destruction spread beyond Kerr County. Travis County officials confirmed four deaths, with 13 still missing, while another fatality was recorded in Kendall County. In Comfort, towering trees were ripped out and thrown across roads. Floodwaters destroyed cars and damaged multiple two-lane bridges. A Reuters photographer documented around 10 mangled vehicles abandoned near the river.
Tonia Fucci, a visitor from Pennsylvania, described the experience as traumatic. “Complete shock. I’m still in shock today… You just want them to be found for the sake of the families. But… there’s no way people could have survived the swiftness of the water.”
Videos circulating online showed foundations where houses once stood, while rescue teams formed human chains to reach stranded residents.
What Is the Government Response and What Comes Next?
Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that he had requested a federal disaster declaration to unlock emergency aid. President Donald Trump responded, saying he and First Lady Melania Trump were praying for the victims. “Our Brave First Responders are on site doing what they do best,” he posted.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the administration would approve disaster relief. She also acknowledged that weather alerts failed to forecast the extent of the storm. Former NOAA Director Rick Spinrad noted that recent staffing cuts may have undermined forecast accuracy. “People’s ability to prepare for these storms will be compromised. It undoubtedly means that additional lives will be lost and probably more property damage,” he said.
As rescue operations continue, communities are bracing for more rain. A flood watch remains in effect until 7 p.m. for the broader Hill Country region.
By Risper Akinyi
