Severe Flooding Ravages Texas Hill Country
Early Friday, the Texas Hill Country was struck by catastrophic flash floods, resulting in the deaths of at least 50 people. Kerr County emerged as the hardest-hit area, with 43 fatalities, while Travis County reported four deaths. Additional casualties were confirmed in Burnet and Tom Green counties.
Missing Girls from Summer Camp Spark Urgent Search Efforts
Among the missing are 27 girls from a Christian summer camp located along the Guadalupe River. Authorities fear some campers may be stranded without the ability to call for help. A reassuring update came from a U.S. Congressman who confirmed his two daughters were safely evacuated from Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp that was heavily impacted.
He expressed profound solidarity with affected families, calling for collective prayers and hope amid the tragedy.
State Mobilizes Massive Rescue and Relief Operations
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster in several counties across the Hill Country, about 70 miles north of San Antonio, mobilizing all available resources including the Texas National Guard and state troopers for search and rescue missions.
The disaster declaration was later extended to additional counties, with federal assistance formally requested to bolster ongoing efforts.
Search and Rescue Teams Race Against Time
W. Nim Kidd, head of the Texas Division of Emergency Management, emphasized that while the primary focus remains on finding survivors, recovery operations are an inevitable next step. Helicopter, boat, and ground teams are working tirelessly to locate live victims.
Governor Abbott stressed the urgency, instructing all agencies to operate under the assumption that every missing person is still alive, highlighting that every minute counts.
Current Status and Challenges Ahead
- More than 850 people have been rescued to date, many via helicopter evacuations.
- Numerous flood-affected communities continue to grapple with power and internet outages.
- Rescue teams face challenging terrain and weather conditions, hampering swift access to isolated areas.
The scope of devastation underscores the urgent need for sustained relief and recovery efforts as families await news of their loved ones.
