Wider Angle From Satellite: Camp Mystic Flooding Impact
Recent satellite imagery from Maxar has provided a broader perspective on the catastrophic flooding that struck south-west Texas, particularly at the renowned Camp Mystic. This summer camp, known for its picturesque settings along the Guadalupe River, was severely impacted, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 27 lives when the river overflowed its banks. The detailed satellite images taken on June 23 show the camp’s lush, green landscape prior to the disaster, while subsequent images from July 8 reveal the extensive damage inflicted by the floodwaters.
On June 23, the satellite image captured the serene beauty of Camp Mystic, highlighting a vast grassy expanse near the river. However, the stark contrast in the imagery taken after the flooding on July 8 illustrates a heartbreaking transformation. The vibrant green areas are now marred by mud and debris, showcasing the sheer scale of destruction caused by the flooding. The once-familiar blue tennis courts, visible in the pre-flood image, have vanished, replaced by a scene of devastation.
At the time of the flooding, hundreds of girls were staying at Camp Mystic, many of whom were housed in low-lying cabins perilously close to the river. The rapid rise of the Guadalupe River led to sudden flash flooding, catching the camp's occupants off guard and resulting in a tragic loss of life.
In a separate development, UK government minister Nick Thomas-Symonds defended the collaboration with France aimed at curbing the number of individuals attempting to cross the English Channel in small boats. On BBC Radio 4’s Today program, he highlighted that the French authorities have reported preventing approximately 12,000 people from making these perilous crossings. This figure, compiled by the Home Office since May 2024, includes various categories such as individuals stopped from leaving France, returns to France, and arrests linked to small boat activities.
However, questions arise regarding the accuracy of these figures. According to Madeleine Sumption from the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford, there’s evidence that many migrants attempt to cross the Channel multiple times. As a result, she asserts that current data does not provide a clear picture of how many individuals have truly been prevented from crossing.
New satellite images released by Maxar demonstrate the significant destruction in Kerr County, Texas, following the recent floods that have claimed over 100 lives. Among these images are several that showcase the aftermath at Camp Mystic, where the flash floods occurred last Friday. While the floodwaters have receded, the devastation is apparent, with close-up shots revealing formerly verdant areas transformed into scenes of destruction, littered with mud and debris.
Trees have been uprooted, and several camp structures have sustained damage, illustrating the power of nature and the tragic consequences of such extreme weather events. The images serve as a poignant reminder of the floods' impact, especially at a place meant for joy and summer memories.
As we continue to monitor the situation, BBC Verify is dedicated to providing timely updates regarding the aftermath of the Texas floods. Our live page details the ongoing efforts to analyze satellite imagery, revealing the extent of destruction caused by the floods, which have resulted in significant loss of life, including at least 27 individuals at the Camp Mystic summer camp.
Additionally, we are investigating reports of two ships allegedly attacked by the Houthi group off the coast of Yemen and will provide verified updates as more information becomes available. Furthermore, we are preparing for the Prime Minister's Questions in the UK’s House of Commons, where we aim to fact-check the statements made by politicians during the session.
