At least 24 dead and more than 20 children missing after US summer camp is swept away by extreme floods
Flash floods in Texas during July 4 celebrations have left at least 24 dead, with over 20 children missing. The Guadalupe River surged 26 feet in under an hour, destroying mobile homes, cars, and cabins. Rescue teams are searching for missing campers from Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp near Kerrville.
The historic camp, established in 1926, lost power, water, and WiFi due to the floods. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick noted the missing children may simply be out of contact rather than lost. Authorities remain hopeful as search efforts intensify.
Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice explained the rapid flooding, citing unexpected heavy rainfall over the Guadalupe River’s north and south forks. Water levels jumped from 7 to 29 feet in minutes, overwhelming the area. The sudden convergence caused catastrophic flooding downstream.
Texas deployed over 100 troopers, high-water vehicles, boats, and seven rescue helicopters. Col. Freeman Martin confirmed teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors. Gov. Greg Abbott pledged unlimited resources to ensure no one is left unaccounted for.
President Donald Trump called the floods a “terrible thing,” acknowledging young lives lost. He promised federal support, coordinating with Abbott to assist affected communities. The administration is mobilizing aid for recovery efforts.
Abbott urged residents to follow official warnings and avoid flooded roads. The state has escalated emergency responses, including pre-storm preparations. Officials emphasize safety as unpredictable weather continues to threaten the region.
The disaster has devastated the Hill Country, with Kerrville, Ingram, and Hunt among the hardest-hit areas. As rescue operations persist, communities mourn the lives lost and pray for the missing to be found safely.
