San Antonio, Texas – A large-scale search and rescue operation is unfolding following devastating flash floods that have claimed at least 24 lives and left numerous children missing from a nearby summer camp. The floods struck abruptly, with the Guadalupe River swelling an astonishing 26 feet within just one hour, submerging vehicles, mobile homes, and cabins as families marked the Fourth of July weekend.
Rescue teams are currently focused on locating approximately 25 children who were attending Camp Mystic, situated just outside Kerrville, about 64 miles northwest of San Antonio. Approximately 750 girls were at the camp when the floods hit, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency in several affected counties, where roadways have been severely damaged, and communication lines have been disrupted.
Eyewitness accounts reveal the chaos as floodwaters ravaged residential areas. One resident described witnessing RVs being swept away, with children inside screaming helplessly. Another park resident shared how he was jolted awake by the storm and ordered to evacuate, only to see his vehicle engulfed moments later by the rushing water.
Texas officials have expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick noted the unprecedented nature of the floods, informing the community that those who have not been contacted regarding their children are accounted for, emphasizing hope that the missing may still be safe and simply out of reach of communication.
Assistance is being coordinated at the state level, with local authorities using helicopters, drones, and boats to scour the flood-affected areas. The camp has reported a lack of power, water, and internet access, complicating rescue efforts and logistics amidst ongoing disasters.
The situation has prompted concerns over preparedness for such extreme weather, as Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly stated that the flooding came as a complete surprise, with no advanced warning systems in place. He highlighted the incident as far more severe than a tragic flood in 1987 that resulted in multiple fatalities.
As officials continue to navigate through this crisis, they urge the public to stay away from affected areas unless they reside there, to allow rescue operations to proceed unimpeded. The Texas Division of Emergency Management is maintaining vigilance, and while initial rainfall estimates were around eight inches, the severity of the flooding has exceeded all expectations.
The community remains hopeful as rescue efforts are focused on recovering those still unaccounted for while supporting the families affected by this heartbreaking disaster.