A relentless storm dumped over 15 inches (38 cm) of rain across central Texas early Friday, triggering a deadly flash flood event that has now claimed the lives of at least 70 people, including 21 children. The Guadalupe River surged over 26 feet (7.9 meters) in under an hour, transforming beloved summer sites and quiet communities into scenes of disaster.
The heart of the devastation struck near Hunt, Texas, where Camp Mystic, a 100-year-old Christian girls’ camp, was engulfed by the rising waters in the early morning darkness.
— David Real (@DavidEReal4) July 5, 2025
Human Toll: Dozens Dead and Still Missing
As of Sunday morning:
- 59 fatalities were confirmed in Kerr County, home to Camp Mystic.
- Additional deaths occurred in Travis (4), Burnet (3), Kendall (2), and Tom Green and Williamson Counties (1 each).
- Authorities confirmed at least 11 campers and one counselor remain missing, with conflicting early reports suggesting up to 27 girls were initially unaccounted for.
Among the victims were Lila Bonner (8) and her best friend Eloise Peck, both from Highland Park. They were staying at adjacent cabins when the floodwaters tore through.
Kerville Texas pic.twitter.com/Y2565doQwM
— David Real (@DavidEReal4) July 5, 2025
River Rose 26 Feet in 45 Minutes
The flash flooding event was driven by extreme rainfall rates and runoff, overwhelming the Guadalupe River, which rose from near normal to catastrophic flood levels in under 45 minutes. The National Weather Service issued warnings late Thursday, but the intensity of the river’s rise caught many by surprise.
Drone footage and videos posted online showed bridges, cabins, and entire sections of campgrounds swept away in moments, with debris carried miles downstream.
Ongoing Search & Rescue Efforts
Search operations have now entered their third day, involving:
- Over 850 rescues conducted by helicopter, boat, and drone.
- Dozens of agencies, including FEMA, Texas Task Forces, and the Coast Guard, are combing the area.
- Search dogs, sonar-equipped boats, and aerial surveillance are focused on the Guadalupe River banks and trees, where several victims were found.
“Each hour is critical,” said Kerr County Sheriff Russell Norris. “We are treating this like a wartime search. We are going to find every person.”
‼️🇺🇸 JUST IN: A Texas National Guard truck rolls by with the back cargo area FULL OF RESCUED GIRLS from the campground that was WIPED OUT by the flood there.
— Diligent Denizen 🇺🇸 (@DiligentDenizen) July 6, 2025
This warms my heart like nothing else. 🩶🙏🏻🇺🇸pic.twitter.com/Bns8tV6SPf
State and Federal Response
President Trump declared a Major Disaster for Kerr County on Saturday night, unlocking federal assistance.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a statewide Day of Prayer and authorized all available resources for the recovery.
- The Houston Texans NFL team announced a $500,000 donation toward immediate relief efforts.
Churches, schools, and private citizens have opened shelters and sent supplies as the region braces for further rainfall forecast through Sunday.
Flood Watches Remain in Effect
The National Weather Service has extended flood watches across the Texas Hill Country through Sunday evening. Emergency managers are urging residents:
- Do not return to affected areas unless cleared.
- Avoid all flooded roads, even if they appear passable.
- Stay updated on warnings as more rain may cause secondary flooding.
A Community in Mourning
Camp Mystic, known for its century-old traditions, is now a symbol of heartbreak. Survivors and families are being reunited at local shelters and high schools, while mental health services are being provided on-site. Grieving families are calling for prayers and patience as the full toll of this disaster unfolds.
“This was supposed to be the happiest week of their summer,” said one parent, holding a photo of her daughter. “Now, we’re just waiting to know if she’s alive.”
