The death toll from the catastrophic floods that struck Texas Hill Country has climbed to 51, including at least 15 children, according to local officials. Recovery and search operations are ongoing as rescue teams continue to comb through devastated areas for survivors, particularly in the vicinity of the Guadalupe River in Kerr County.
Rescuers remain focused on locating 27 children still missing from Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp that was inundated after the river rose over 20 feet in less than two hours in the middle of the night with little to no warning. More than 850 people have been rescued in the area, including 302 airlifted to safety in a coordinated operation involving helicopters, boats, off-road vehicles, and search-and-rescue teams.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick stressed the state’s continued commitment to rescue efforts, noting, “We never give up on looking for someone.” He acknowledged the uncertainty in the number of missing persons, explaining that many holiday visitors had temporarily settled along the Guadalupe River, making it difficult to account for everyone.
Floodwaters have receded mainly across the area, allowing crews greater access to damaged regions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported that river levels have returned to near pre-storm conditions, aided by the region’s drought-stricken lakes, which have absorbed much of the excess water.
Additional rainfall is forecast for parts of Central Texas, with meteorologists warning that even minor precipitation could trigger new flooding in already saturated areas.
The flooding has drawn national and international attention. Pope Leo offered condolences during his Angelus prayer at the Vatican, expressing sympathy for families who lost loved ones, especially the missing children. President Donald Trump approved a federal disaster declaration requested by Governor Greg Abbott, who called the destruction at Camp Mystic unlike anything he had seen in past natural disasters.
Volunteers, including members of the Cajun Navy, continue to arrive from across the country to assist with search and recovery. Despite rugged terrain and lingering hazards, local officials have vowed to continue operations until every person is accounted for.
