At least 24 people are dead and many more remain missing — including children from a local summer camp — after severe flooding along the Guadalupe River devastated parts of Kerr County, Texas.
According to the Austin American-Statesman, heavy rains overnight triggered flash floods that pushed the river to near-record levels. In some areas, more than 12 inches of rain fell in just 12 hours, with the river cresting over 34 feet near Comfort, according to the National Weather Service.
Governor Greg Abbott, calling the situation an “extraordinary catastrophe,” signed a disaster declaration for Kerr, Kendall, and surrounding counties. He said the state is deploying all available resources, including helicopters, drones, search teams, and National Guard units, to assist with rescue and recovery efforts.
Among the missing are around 23 children who were attending Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp near Hunt. Emergency crews, including game wardens and first responders, continue to search the flood zone on foot and by air.
Officials have urged residents along the Guadalupe River to evacuate and seek higher ground, as a flash flood emergency remains in effect.
The death toll was confirmed Friday night by Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha, who pledged to continue search efforts “24/7 until everyone is found.”
