At least 24 people have died and dozens more remain unaccounted for after devastating flash floods swept through parts of Texas during the July 4th holiday weekend.
Among the missing are up to 25 children from a Christian girls’ summer camp, Camp Mystic, located near Kerrville, approximately 64 miles (104 km) northwest of San Antonio.
A massive overnight search and rescue operation is currently underway, with emergency crews working around the clock to locate survivors.
The disaster unfolded with alarming speed as the Guadalupe River surged by 26 feet (7.9 meters) in less than an hour, overwhelming the area with raging floodwaters. Mobile homes, vehicles, and holiday cabins were swept away as families gathered to celebrate Independence Day.
“It happened so fast — there was barely any time to react,” said a local resident. “The river just swallowed everything in its path.”
More than 750 girls were attending Camp Mystic when the flooding hit. While many have since been accounted for, officials say dozens are still unlocated, and their families are anxiously awaiting news.
A state of emergency has been declared across several counties. Roads have been washed away, and communication infrastructure has been severely damaged, with phone lines down in multiple communities, further complicating rescue efforts.
Governor’s Office officials said National Guard units and federal emergency teams have been deployed to assist overwhelmed local responders.
“This is one of the most tragic natural disasters we’ve seen in recent Texas history,” said a spokesperson for the Texas Emergency Management Agency. “Our focus remains on finding survivors and providing critical aid.”
Weather forecasters had warned of potential thunderstorms over the region, but the speed and volume of the river’s rise took many by surprise.
Authorities are urging people to avoid affected areas and stay off the roads as emergency teams carry out rescue and recovery operations.
