KERRVILLE, Texas — In the Texas Hill Country, heavy rainfall resulted in devastating flash floods, leading to the tragic deaths of 24 individuals and leaving many more unaccounted for. Among those missing are over 20 girls from Camp Mystic, a summer camp situated along the Guadalupe River in Hunt. Search teams have been actively conducting boat and helicopter rescues amidst the rapidly rising floodwaters.
The torrential downpour, which recorded at least 10 inches (25 centimeters) overnight in central Kerr County, caused severe flash flooding on the Guadalupe River. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha reported that 24 fatalities had been confirmed as of Friday, with 237 people rescued—167 of whom were rescued by helicopter.
Elinor Lester, a 13-year-old camper, recounted the harrowing experience of her cabin being airlifted to safety as a violent storm erupted around them at 1:30 a.m. Rescuers tied a rope for the campers to hold onto while they traversed a bridge engulfed in floodwaters. “The camp was completely destroyed,” she said, expressing her fear during the ordeal.
Authorities have noted that the situation remains fluid, and the death toll could increase as search and rescue operations continue. Efforts to identify the deceased are underway. A river gauge in Hunt recorded an alarming rise of 22 feet (6.7 meters) within just two hours, indicating how quickly conditions deteriorated. Bob Fogarty, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service in Austin, emphasized the dangers of the swiftly moving water, stating, “You’re not going to recognize how bad it is until it’s on top of you.”
Families frantically posted pleas for information on social media, sharing photos of missing loved ones, while search efforts intensified with around 400 responders on the ground. Rescue teams, comprising nine teams, 14 helicopters, and 12 drones, have been utilized to retrieve victims, with some being rescued from treetops.
Approximately 23 girls from the camp, out of 750 attendees, remain unaccounted for. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick assured the public that searches were being conducted relentlessly to locate everyone still missing. Local resident Erin Burgess described how her family became trapped when water flooded their home. Clinging to a tree, they waited out the flood, fearing for their safety.
Matthew Stone, 44, noted the lack of emergency alerts that could have provided warnings before the flooding hit his neighborhood. “We got no emergency alert. There was nothing,” he expressed, describing what he saw as “a pitch black wall of death” as the waters rose.
Families gathered at a reunification center in Ingram, experiencing a range of emotions as they were reunited with loved ones. Stories of survival emerged as residents recounted their terrifying exploits during the deluge. Barry Adelman, who had to shelter his 94-year-old grandmother and 9-year-old grandson in their attic as water levels rose, expressed his fear. “I was having to look at my grandson in the face and tell him everything was going to be OK, but inside I was scared to death,” he recalled.
Meteorologists had predicted rain, which escalated to a flood warning affecting at least 30,000 residents. However, the rapid rise in rainfall amounts took many by surprise, turning the area, often dubbed “flash flood alley,” into a scene of devastation. Chief Elected Official Judge Rob Kelly admitted the lack of a warning system, acknowledging the unpredictability of such floods in the region known for its dangerous river valley.
The Texas Hill Country is renowned for its river tourism, accommodating thousands of visitors to its scenic waters. However, the recent flood illustrates the hazardous nature of the landscape, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and timely alerts for residents and campers alike.
