A catastrophic flash flood in central Texas has claimed at least 27 lives, including nine children, and left over two dozen people missing, most of them from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp near Kerrville. The disaster unfolded early July 4, when the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet in just 45 minutes following heavy rainfall from the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry.
As of July 5, 23 to 25 girls from Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for. The camp, which had approximately 750 children present, was devastated by the floodwaters, with many cabins destroyed. Rescue teams have evacuated older campers from higher ground, but younger children housed near the riverbanks are still missing.
Over 850 people have been rescued, including 167 by helicopter. More than 1,000 responders, including Texas National Guard personnel, are involved in ongoing search-and-rescue operations. Survivors have described harrowing experiences of escaping rising waters and clinging to safety.
Despite flash flood warnings issued by the National Weather Service and AccuWeather, many residents reported receiving no alerts, leading to dramatic rescues and desperate efforts to reach higher ground.
The National Weather Service forecasts additional thunderstorms through Sunday, with localized downpours capable of triggering new flash floods in already saturated areas. Kerrville is expected to see highs in the low 80s with afternoon storms both Saturday and Sunday.
Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of emergency, and President Donald Trump has pledged federal support. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as rescue and recovery efforts continue.