At least 78 lives have been lost and 41 people remain unaccounted for after catastrophic flash floods struck central Texas early Friday, overwhelming communities and washing away a beloved girls' summer camp in Kerr County.
The heaviest blow came at Camp Mystic, nestled beside the Guadalupe River, where a sudden 26-foot surge engulfed the site in under an hour—catching many campers in their sleep.
Among the dead are 28 children, and 10 girls along with a counselor are still missing. Authorities fear the toll will rise with more storms forecast in the coming days.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who toured the devastated area, called the scenes “nothing short of horrific” and pledged that search efforts would not cease until all missing persons are found.
Crews battling treacherous conditions—including debris, deep mud, and venomous snakes—are transitioning from rescue to recovery.
The camp’s longtime director, Richard "Dick" Eastland, is among the deceased. Former Navy SEAL Greg Froelick, volunteering with rescue group 300 Justice, described finding camp debris and personal belongings as far as eight miles downstream.
The community response has been profound. Local volunteers like Alma Garcia and Walmart employee Perla have stepped up with food, clothing, and compassion—offering shelter, meals, and essential supplies to those uprooted by the flooding.
President Donald Trump signed a federal disaster declaration Sunday to facilitate emergency aid, vowing to visit affected areas.
Condolences have poured in from across the globe, including Pope Leo XIV, who offered prayers for the families—especially for the young girls lost to the river’s fury.
Source: BBC
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