Devastating Texas Floods Claim 13 Lives, 20 Children Missing

At least 13 people have lost their lives, and 20 children remain unaccounted for following catastrophic flooding in Kerr County, Texas. The devastating floods, triggered by unprecedented rainfall, have left communities in disarray and prompted urgent rescue efforts.

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick confirmed the grim toll during a press conference on Friday, describing how the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet in just 45 minutes. "It was a destructive flood—taking property and, sadly, lives," he said. The flooding also impacted Camp Mystic, a summer camp hosting approximately 700 children, where 20 attendees are now missing. Patrick assured parents that those who have not been contacted should assume their child is safe, though communication remains a challenge.

The state has declared disasters in the Hill Country and Concho Valley regions due to the flash floods, which delivered several months' worth of rainfall in mere hours. Governor Greg Abbott, currently on vacation, has pledged to provide all necessary resources to affected areas, including Kerrville, Ingram, and Hunt.

Rescue operations have been ongoing since early Friday, with authorities urging residents near creeks, streams, and the Guadalupe River to seek higher ground. Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring expressed shock at the severity of the floods, noting the absence of an early warning system to alert the community.

Images from the region show floodwaters engulfing bridges and rapidly flowing down roads. Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller issued a stern warning: "Folks, please don't take chances. Stay alert, follow local emergency warnings, and do not drive through flooded roads."

Meanwhile, in New Jersey, heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday night claimed the lives of at least three individuals. Among the victims were two men, aged 79 and 25, who died when a tree fell on their car in Plainfield. A 44-year-old woman also lost her life in a similar incident in North Plainfield. Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp expressed grief, calling the tragedy "a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the fragility of life."

As Texas grapples with the aftermath of the floods, officials remain vigilant amid warnings of further flash flooding in the region.