Texas, USA – At least 29 people have died in flash flooding that has swept through parts of Texas, with authorities confirming nine children among the deceased in Kerr County. The grim toll includes two additional fatalities in Travis County, central Texas, where another 10 people remain missing.
Tragically, 27 girls are still unaccounted for after floodwaters devastated a Christian summer camp situated along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County.
Local Officials Describe Devastation
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, whose own house along the Guadalupe River was decimated by the floods, described the rapid and unexpected nature of the disaster. “Nobody saw this coming,” Judge Kelly said, adding that his morning began by coordinating recovery efforts and that he has spent time at the funeral home where many of the victims’ bodies have been brought. “The rescue has gone as well as can be expected, it’s time now for the recovery,” he stated.
Extensive Rescue Efforts Underway
Texas Governor Greg Abbott revealed that officials have rescued more than 850 people in the last 36 hours, with search efforts continuing. He praised the swift and effective response from local officials and state agencies.
Congressman Chip Roy, whose family regularly visits Kerr County for the Fourth of July, expressed the personal impact of the tragedy. He lauded the “professional and extremely well done” disaster response by local leadership.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who is now in Texas, confirmed that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is operating at an “enhanced level,” fully integrated with state operations. She commended Texas for its effective disaster response, noting it serves as “an example to the nation,” and assured that more federal resources, including additional aircraft and helicopters, would be deployed to aid rescue operations. Senator John Cornyn also highlighted the impressive work of the Texas Department of Emergency Management and praised those on the ground for their immediate action.
US President Donald Trump earlier stated that his administration is working closely with local authorities to support the emergency response.
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