A desperate search and rescue operation is underway in Texas after flash floods killed at least 24 people and left up to 25 girls missing from a Christian summer camp near Kerrville. The Guadalupe River surged 26 feet (7.9m) in less than an hour, sweeping away mobile homes, vehicles, and holiday cabins during the 4 July weekend.
Rescue teams, using helicopters, drones, and boats, are searching for the missing children from Camp Mystic, an all-girls camp 104km (64 miles) northwest of San Antonio, where 750 girls were attending. The camp reported no power, water, or Wi-Fi, with the highway washed away, hampering rescue efforts. A state of emergency has been declared in several counties where roads and phone lines are down.
US President Donald Trump called the tragedy “shocking” and pledged federal aid. Eyewitnesses described devastating scenes, with Bud Bolton telling the *San Antonio Express News* of an RV floating away with people trapped inside, and children screaming. Resident Thomas Rux recounted his vehicle being swept away after a fire department evacuation warning. Local restaurant owner Lorena said, “It’s total devastation. Helicopters are rescuing people trapped in trees.”
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick noted the river’s rapid rise caused widespread destruction, but reassured parents that uncontacted children may simply be out of communication. Camp Mystic, for girls who have completed second grade, is at the heart of the crisis.
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly defended the lack of prior evacuation, stating, “No-one knew this kind of flood was coming.” He noted the absence of a local warning system and said the flooding surpassed a 1987 disaster that killed 10 teenagers. The Texas Division of Emergency Management held planning meetings, but the National Weather Service underestimated the rainfall, predicting 8 inches (20cm) when far more fell.
Officials remain concerned about ongoing weather risks and urged non-residents to stay away. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office advised those near creeks and the Guadalupe River to seek higher ground.
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