A massive search and rescue operation is underway in central Texas after catastrophic flash floods killed at least 51 people, including 15 children, and left dozens more missing—many from a Christian summer camp along the Guadalupe River.
The worst-hit region is Kerr County, where 43 fatalities have been confirmed. Emergency officials say 27 children from Camp Mystic, a girls’ Christian youth camp, are still unaccounted for. The camp, nestled on the banks of the rapidly swelling river, was inundated by over 26 feet of water in less than an hour early Friday morning.
“The work continues, and will continue, until everyone is found,” Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said during a press briefing. Search crews—more than 850 personnel strong—have been scouring the area, both on foot and by boat, as hopes of finding more survivors fade by the hour.
“A Search and Rescue Mission”
Governor Greg Abbott has signed an expanded disaster declaration to escalate search efforts across central Texas, with more flash flood warnings in place throughout the weekend. “We will be relentless in our efforts,” Abbott said. “We will stop when the job is completed.”
U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking from the White House, said federal resources were being deployed and that the administration is working “hand in hand” with Texas authorities to manage the crisis.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that more rain is on the way, with up to 10 inches possible in areas already devastated by Friday’s storm. “The risk of renewed flash flooding remains high,” said an NWS spokesperson.
Tragedy at Camp Mystic
Camp Mystic has become the emotional center of the tragedy. Home to around 750 girls for the summer, the camp was thrown into chaos when the Guadalupe River overflowed in the middle of the night. Images from the site show mud-soaked beds, stuffed animals, and torn belongings strewn across the grounds.
“It happened so fast,” said Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, who confirmed that many of the 27 missing girls are under 12 years old. “Some of them were still asleep when the river overtook the cabins.”
Parents were notified by email that unless they had been contacted directly, their children were accounted for—a small comfort in the face of growing casualty reports. Among the dead are sisters Blair and Brooke Harber, aged 13 and 11.
Statewide Destruction
Beyond Kerr County, additional fatalities have been confirmed in Travis and Tom Green counties. In total, over 850 people have been rescued from homes, vehicles, and trees across the region.
Lorena Guillen, a local business owner, recounted the terrifying moment the river swept through her property, which was hosting dozens of holidaymakers for the Independence Day weekend.
“I heard screams,” Guillen told the BBC. “A family of five was clinging to trees. They were getting washed away… the rescuers couldn’t reach them in time.”
Communities Rally Amid Grief
A special Mass is scheduled for Sunday at Notre Dame Catholic Church to honor the victims and those still missing. Local churches and community centers have opened their doors to displaced families, while volunteers continue to provide food, shelter, and emotional support.
“This has shattered our community,” said Father Miguel Sanchez, who will lead Sunday’s service. “But we will not give up hope. We will not stop praying.”
As rescue efforts continue and the threat of further flooding looms, Texas braces for what may be a prolonged period of mourning—and recovery.
