Key Takeaways

  • At least 81 people have died in Central Texas flash floods, with dozens still missing, primarily in Kerr County.
  • The Camp Mystic girls' camp in Kerr County was severely impacted, with significant fatalities and missing persons.
  • Rescue efforts are challenged by ongoing storms, venomous snakes, and extensive debris, with the death toll expected to rise.
  • Governor Greg Abbott and President Donald Trump have pledged support, with federal aid declared for Kerr County.
  • Local communities and international figures have expressed support and offered assistance to the affected regions.

Central Texas is grappling with the aftermath of catastrophic flash floods that have claimed the lives of at least 81 people, with dozens still missing. The hardest-hit area is Kerr County, where 68 fatalities, including 28 children, were reported. A riverside Christian girls' camp, Camp Mystic, was particularly devastated, with 10 campers and a counselor still unaccounted for.

Other counties have also reported casualties: five in Travis County, three in Burnet County, two in Williamson County, two in Kendall County, and one in Tom Green County. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate the missing, but officials warn that the death toll is likely to rise as search efforts continue.

Compounding the crisis, more storms are forecasted for the next 24 to 48 hours, potentially hindering rescue operations. Rescuers are already facing challenges, including venomous snakes and extensive mud and debris.

The tragedy at Camp Mystic unfolded early Friday when the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet (8 meters) in just 45 minutes, catching most campers asleep. The camp suffered significant damage, with reports of clothing and personal items scattered along the riverbanks. Richard "Dick" Eastland, the camp's longtime director, is among those who lost their lives.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who toured the affected areas, described the scene as "horrific" and vowed that authorities would "stop at nothing" to find every missing person. President Donald Trump has declared a major disaster for Kerr County, enabling federal aid through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). He also announced plans to visit Texas later this week.

Local residents have stepped up to support relief efforts, providing supplies, shelter, and assistance to those displaced by the floods. Alma Garcia, a San Antonio resident, delivered home-cooked meals to volunteers and survivors, while Perla, a Walmart employee, collected clothes and shoes for affected families.

Well wishes have poured in from around the world, including from Pope Leo XIV, who offered prayers for the victims and their families. "We pray for them," the pontiff said during a special address in Rome.

As the region braces for more rain, the focus remains on recovery and supporting those affected by this unprecedented disaster.

Tags:

#Natural Disaster #severe weather #Texas floods #rescue efforts #Kerr County