In early July, torrential rains turned Texas Hill Country's serene Guadalupe River into a gushing torrent, leaving communities reeling. As of Tuesday, officials report 109 lives lost and over 160 still missing in one of the worst flash flood disasters the region has seen.
Kerr County bore the brunt of the disaster, accounting for 87 of the fatalities. Camp Mystic, an outdoor retreat tucked along the riverbank in Hunt, Texas, reported at least 27 campers and counselors swept away by the sudden surge. 'Our hearts are broken alongside our families enduring this unimaginable tragedy,' the camp said.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott urged the public to share any information on missing loved ones, confirming that search efforts will continue throughout the Guadalupe River system. 'We are praying for them constantly,' said the camp statement as rescue teams deploy boats, sonar equipment and drones to comb the river's winding channels.
Sheriff Larry Leitha of Kerr County said five campers and one counselor remain unaccounted for. With around 750 children at Camp Mystic when the flood hit, authorities face a race against time and rising waters to locate the missing.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed a major disaster declaration for Kerr County at the governor's request, unlocking federal resources for recovery. Abbott, who described the camp's scene as 'horrendously ravaged,' visited survivors and first responders over the weekend.
This tragedy underscores a growing trend: extreme weather events seem to be intensifying worldwide, challenging communities from Texas to Tokyo. As global citizens, young professionals and digital nomads witness the power of nature, the call to boost emergency preparedness and climate resilience grows louder.
For now, hope remains with the search teams along the Guadalupe River and the families awaiting answers. Their fight is a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability – and our shared responsibility to stay connected, prepared and compassionate across borders.
Reference(s):
Death toll in U.S. Texas flash floods climbs to 109, over 160 missing
cgtn.com
