In a devastating incident, at least 13 people have died and dozens more are reported missing, including 20 children from local summer camps, following catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe River. Kerr County has been particularly hard-hit by the extreme weather, which has caused widespread destruction and prompted urgent rescue efforts.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha Jr. reported that the remains of 13 victims have been discovered, expressing concern that the number may rise as emergency crews continue their search for individuals feared to have been swept away by the floodwaters. The flooding was triggered by heavy rains that soaked the Hill Country overnight, leading to a crisis that has impacted the community deeply. During an afternoon news briefing, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick confirmed that 20 children attending Camp Mystic, a local Christian summer camp, are still unaccounted for. “We’re praying for them to be found,” he stated, as state game wardens and rescue teams search the flood zone.
In response to the crisis, the Texas Division of Emergency Management has mobilized substantial resources, deploying 14 helicopters, 12 drones, and 9 rescue teams, comprising 400 to 500 personnel, to aid in recovery operations. The National Weather Service reported that more than 12 inches of rain fell within a 12-hour period, raising the Guadalupe River near Hunt to its second-highest recorded level at 29.45 feet. Near Comfort, the river peaked at 34.76 feet, significantly surpassing flood stage and marking one of the highest levels on record.
As of Friday afternoon, a flash flood emergency remains in effect for South-Central Kerr County, affecting areas such as Hunt, Center Point, Kerrville, and Comfort. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly described the storm’s aftermath as “a very devastating and deadly flood,” urging residents living near the Guadalupe River to evacuate immediately to higher ground. Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the state’s commitment to surge all available resources to tackle the disaster, stating, “The immediate priority is saving lives.”
The recent flooding has drawn parallels to a tragic incident in July 1987, when heavy rains similarly overwhelmed the Guadalupe River, resulting in the loss of 10 lives at the Pot O’ Gold Christian camp. As rescue operations continue, officials are reminded of the risks associated with the river, a sentiment shared by Judge Kelly, who noted that "no one knew this flood was coming." He also confirmed that the county lacks a warning system to alert residents of rising water levels.
Authorities have established two reunification centers to assist families. One is located at Ingram Elementary School, while the second is set up at the historic Arcadia Live theater in Kerrville. Judge Kelly urged the community to cooperate and provide support, encouraging donations to the American Red Cross for victims of the Guadalupe River flood.
Among the most affected areas is Camp Mystic, where camp directors have reported that some cabins have been flooded and possibly washed away, and some children are still unaccounted for. Emergency crews have been involved in rescues throughout the night, including at an RV park near Howdy’s Restaurant in Kerrville, where many RVs were swept away by the floodwaters.
One heartbreaking account comes from Connie Salas, who lost her brother Julian Ryan, a 27-year-old father of three, when floodwaters overtook their mobile home park. Ryan tragically died while attempting to escape the flood. Another survival story involves Carson Moore and Michael Paynter, two college students who were rescued from a tree after their home was engulfed by water. Their families anxiously awaited news, highlighting the emotional toll this disaster has taken on the community.
The flooding has also affected northern and western Kendall County, prompting the Boerne Fire Department to deploy rescue teams in the Comfort area. Officials have opened a shelter at Comfort High School to accommodate those displaced by the flooding, ensuring that evacuees receive necessary supplies and support.
This is a developing story, and updates will continue to be provided as the situation evolves. The Austin American-Statesman has contributed to this report, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the residents of Kerr County and surrounding areas.
