Texas Floods
KERRVILLE, Texas (AP) – In a tragic series of events, rescuers have been searching through a devastated landscape in central Texas following catastrophic floods that have resulted in at least 51 fatalities. Among the dead are 43 people from Kerr County, including 15 children. Additionally, 27 girls remain missing after their camp, Camp Mystic, was overtaken by a wall of water during a historic flash flood.
The flooding caused the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically—26 feet (8 meters) in a mere 45 minutes—before dawn on Friday. This rapid surge of water obliterated homes and vehicles. Authorities remain cautious, as heavy rains continued to impact areas outside San Antonio, where flash flood warnings were still active. The search for survivors involves helicopters, boats, and drones navigating the wreckage of trees and drowned vehicles.
As the situation evolves, authorities are still assessing the broader impact of these floods. Frantic parents are desperate for news about their daughters from the girls' camp, which has become a focal point of the tragedy.
Recent Deadly Floods Nationally
Historically, flooding has accounted for an average of over 125 deaths annually in the United States, with flash floods being the leading storm-related killer. The current disasters in Texas echo previous devastating floods, such as those caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024, which resulted in around 250 deaths across several states.
Ceasefire Negotiations in Gaza
Meanwhile, in Gaza, a U.S.-led ceasefire effort appears to be gaining traction after 21 months of conflict. On Sunday, Israel plans to send a negotiating team to Qatar for discussions, coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's meeting at the White House on Monday, aimed at solidifying a potential agreement.
Despite the negotiations, violence continues. Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed 14 Palestinians, with another 10 deceased while seeking food aid. Amid these dire conditions, weary Palestinians express a longing for peace and normalcy, yearning for a respite from conflict.
Iran's Supreme Leader Public Appearance
In Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public appearance since the onset of a war with Israel, attending a mourning ceremony on the eve of Ashoura. His absence had led to speculation regarding his safety and the extent of his public engagement during the conflict.
Following U.S. military actions that targeted Iran's nuclear sites, President Trump issued warnings indicating knowledge of Khamenei’s whereabouts but maintaining that there were currently no plans for direct action against him.
Ukraine Conflict Escalation
In Ukraine, a significant aerial assault occurred as Russia initiated its largest missile and drone strike since its invasion began, targeting Kyiv. This attack resulted in one confirmed fatality and over 26 injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged in a constructive dialogue with Trump regarding military support and broader strategies to end the war.
U.S. Deportations to South Sudan
In a controversial move, the U.S. administration has successfully deported eight men to South Sudan after navigating extensive legal hurdles. These individuals, who were detained at a military base in Djibouti during proceedings, had faced various convictions in the U.S. The transfer raised concerns due to the risks associated with returning them to a conflict-ridden country.
Trump's Political Landscape Shifting
Politically, President Trump is facing challenges as his tax cuts, a significant legislative achievement, come under scrutiny ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Critics are framing the tax reforms as benefiting the wealthy while jeopardizing healthcare for lower-income individuals, setting the stage for intense political debate.
Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches
Additionally, Tropical Storm Chantal has formed off the southeast U.S. coast, threatening heavy rains across the Carolinas. Expected rainfall totals could reach 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters), with flash flooding concerns ahead of the storm’s anticipated landfall.
Boxing Community in Mourning
Lastly, in Culiacan, Mexico, the boxing community mourns the arrest of Julio César Chávez Jr., who faces serious allegations including ties to drug trafficking. His legal troubles have cast a shadow over the Chávez family, bringing attention to the ongoing issues surrounding organized crime in the region.
Mourning for Diogo Jota
In Gondomar, Portugal, the funeral of football player Diogo Jota and his brother, who tragically died in a car accident, brought together teammates from Liverpool and Portugal's national team. Fellow players paid their respects, highlighting the profound impact of their loss within the soccer community.
