Texas Floods Claim 70 Lives, Including 21 Children from Camp

In a devastating turn of events, central Texas has been grappling with severe flooding that has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 70 lives, including 21 children from a summer camp. The catastrophic floods, which began on July 5, 2025, have left entire communities in disarray, prompting a massive search and rescue operation as authorities strive to locate the missing.

As search efforts continue, families have been sifting through waterlogged debris, searching for their loved ones. The situation is particularly dire at Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp located near the Guadalupe River, where 11 girls and a counselor remain unaccounted for. Sheriff Larry Leitha of Kerr County reported that 16 bodies have been recovered from the area since the floods, raising the death toll in Kerr County alone to 59, including the tragic loss of many children.

The floods, described by locals as a surprise event despite prior warnings, saw the Guadalupe River rise over eight meters in just 45 minutes, sweeping away homes and vehicles with alarming speed. President Donald Trump declared a major disaster in Kerr County on July 6, activating the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist with recovery efforts. In a statement, he expressed condolences to the affected families and acknowledged the scale of the tragedy.

Governor Greg Abbott has also pledged that state authorities will work tirelessly to search for survivors and has declared a day of prayer across Texas for those affected by the disaster. As helicopter and drone searches continue, more than 850 people have been rescued since the onset of the flooding.

Critics are raising concerns regarding the adequacy of flood warnings and preparedness in a region historically vulnerable to such disasters. U.S. Representative Chip Roy, who represents the affected area, noted that there will be scrutiny regarding the response to this calamity.

Meanwhile, survivors have shared harrowing accounts of their experiences during the floods, describing moments of sheer terror as they clung to trees or sought refuge in attics. The National Weather Service had issued flash flood warnings prior to the disaster, yet the intensity of the rainfall caught many by surprise.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, local leaders are urging for a thorough review of emergency protocols to prevent future occurrences. The community, known for its beautiful landscapes and youth camps, is now faced with the stark reality of rebuilding and healing from a disaster that has irrevocably changed their lives. As search efforts continue, the full impact of the floods on families and the broader community remains to be seen, with hopes dwindling for the safe return of those still missing.