At least 82 people have died in the recent catastrophic flash floods across Central Texas, primarily in Kerr County, where 68 fatalities have been confirmed, including 28 children. Additionally, around 41 individuals remain missing, many of them campers from Camp Mystic. These floods occurred over the Fourth of July weekend following an intense, slow-moving storm that dumped more than a foot of rain, causing the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically in a matter of hours

 Kerr County at the Center of a Historic Crisis

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha described the situation as “catastrophic” during a press briefing on Sunday morning. He confirmed that over 400 first responders from at least 20 agencies are currently involved in the search and rescue efforts.

Among the most concerning locations is Camp Mystic, a well-known summer camp situated along the Guadalupe River. Sheriff Leitha stated that 11 of the camp’s 750 young female campers, along with one counselor, remain unaccounted for as of Sunday.

“We will continue our search efforts until everybody is found,” said Sheriff Leitha.

 Camp Mystic Issues Emotional Message to Parents

In a direct communication to families, Camp Mystic issued a message of clarity and hope:

“If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified. If you have not been personally contacted, then your daughter is accounted for.”

This message offered a sliver of relief to hundreds of anxious families, but for many, the wait continues.

 A Flood That Struck in the Dead of Night

The heavy rains began pounding Kerr County, about 60 miles north of San Antonio, on Friday night. Up to 12 inches of rainfall fell in a short span, leading to rapid flash floods. Officials report that the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes, reaching its second-highest level on record, surpassing the devastating floods of 1987.

Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring struggled to hold back tears as he addressed the public:

“This came at night, when people were asleep in bed. Please pray for our community.”

 Emergency Declaration and Federal Support

Former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that he had signed a “major disaster declaration” for Kerr County.

“These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing. The Trump Administration continues to work closely with State and Local Leaders,” he wrote.

Following this declaration, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who is currently on the ground in Texas, confirmed that FEMA is now fully engaged and coordinating efforts with state and local agencies.

“We are committed to ensuring the people of Texas get the support they need as search efforts continue and recovery begins,” Noem stated.

 Rescue Operations and Harrowing Survivor Stories

Emergency crews conducted dozens of rescues as floodwaters rose quickly in the early morning hours. Campers and residents caught near creeks and riverbanks were urged to move immediately to higher ground, with sheriff’s departments issuing evacuation alerts throughout the region.

In one campground along the Guadalupe River, a camper named Katie shared her terrifying experience with ABC News via Instagram:

“I was up all night watching weather alerts. Around 2 a.m., a river flood warning came in. We thought we were safe… But by 5:30 a.m., someone was banging on our RV door, shouting for us to evacuate immediately.”

Katie said she and her family grabbed their children and were ready to leave their camper behind if necessary.

“The river was raging… you could hear trees and objects being crushed in the current. It was terrifying. We’re so thankful for the park staff who woke us up. We’re safe — but our hearts break for those still missing.”

 Other Counties Also Impacted

In addition to the 59 confirmed deaths in Kerr County:

Travis County: 4 deaths

Burnet County: 3 deaths

Kendall County: 2 deaths

Tom Green and Williamson Counties: 1 death each

Officials caution that these numbers are likely to rise as search efforts continue and additional areas become accessible.

 Public Safety Warnings Still in Effect

Authorities have urged all residents near rivers, streams, and creeks — especially in Kerr County — to avoid travel and move immediately to higher ground if floodwaters threaten their homes.

Dramatic videos circulating on social media show campers fleeing submerged vehicles, rivers encroaching on campsites, and cabins completely underwater.

 A State in Mourning — And a Community in Need

This catastrophic flooding has left families shattered, communities submerged, and a state in deep mourning. As the rescue and recovery continue, Texas officials are asking for continued prayers, support, and vigilance.

For those wishing to assist, local disaster relief organizations and national agencies like the Red Cross and FEMA are currently accepting donations and volunteer applications.

“This is one of the worst natural disasters we’ve seen in decades,” said one local official.
“But in the middle of tragedy, we’re seeing courage, unity, and compassion.”