A flash flood along the Guadalupe River in Texas killed at least 43 people and left dozens more missing, many of them children attending Camp Mystic, a private Christian summer camp for girls.
Heavy rains in the morning caused the river to rise nearly 30 feet in just 45 minutes, overwhelming parts of Kerr and Kendall counties. State officials confirmed that 24 people died in Kerr County and one in Kendall County.
Officials say between 23 and 25 people are still missing from Camp Mystic, which had more than 750 attendees at the time of the flood. Other nearby camps reported all children accounted for.
Governor Greg Abbott (R) deployed the National Guard to assist in emergency operations. “The immediate priority is saving lives,” Abbott wrote on X, adding that the state was directing all available resources, including water rescue teams and sheltering centers.
At a press conference, Abbott emphasized collaboration across agencies.
“Day or night, whatever hour of the day, there will be local officials, state officials collaborating together,” he said.
Major General Thomas Suelzer of the Texas National Guard reported that 237 people had be2en evacuated, including 167 by helicopter. Military vehicles were also used in the rescue effort.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum contacted Abbott to offer federal resources.
“The federal government is leaning in and wants to assist the community here in the heart of Texas,” Abbott said.
Senator Ted Cruz (R) called for prayers on social media, writing, “Please pray right now for everyone in the Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic.” He added that President Donald Trump had “committed ANYTHING Texas needs.”
Senator John Cornyn (R) also offered condolences: “Our prayers are with the families of those lost and those still unaccounted for.”
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) urged parents not to attempt to reach the area due to dangerous road conditions.
“Once we're able to get some of those roads clear, when the rain stops, then we have 10 buses ready to go in and pick up the kids,” Patrick said. “We’ll find a point… where you can be reunited with your child and hug them.”
A disaster declaration was issued by Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. Nearly 3,000 residents lost power, and local funeral homes reported being overwhelmed.
A Walmart in the area has been converted into a temporary reunification center, with shelters activated and the Red Cross providing assistance.
