Severe flash flooding struck Kerr County on July 4, resulting in at least 24 confirmed fatalities and more than 20 individuals reported missing, according to local authorities. The flooding primarily impacted areas along the Guadalupe River near Kerrville.
Emergency officials reported that many of the missing individuals are children from Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp located along the river. The camp, which hosts approximately 750 attendees, was affected after 5 to 10 inches of rainfall caused a rapid rise in river levels. The Guadalupe River reportedly rose to 26 feet in under an hour.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing. Local, state, and federal agencies have deployed helicopters, boats, and ground crews to assist in recovery efforts. Evacuations were conducted in affected areas, and several roadways and bridges have been closed due to flood conditions.
Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster for 15 counties, including Kerr, to facilitate emergency response and resource allocation. The Texas Department of Emergency Management and the National Guard are participating in response operations.
Relief centers have been established to provide shelter, medical care, and other support services. Authorities have advised the public to avoid travel in flooded areas and to follow official safety guidance.
