By AFP
The death toll from devastating flash floods in south-central Texas has climbed to 24, officials confirmed Friday, as rescue teams continue searching for at least 20 girls missing from an all-girls summer camp.
Camp mystic hit by sudden flooding
Heavy overnight rainfall—nearly a foot in some areas—caused the Guadalupe River to surge 26 feet in just 45 minutes, sweeping through the flood-prone Hill Country region.
Among the worst-hit areas was Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp near the river, where about 23 campers remain unaccounted for. Distressed parents have taken to social media, sharing photos and desperate pleas for information about their missing daughters.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed multiple fatalities, including children, and stated that between 23 and 25 people remain missing. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick urged residents to offer “on-your-knees kind of prayers” for the safe return of the missing girls.
‘I don’t want to leave’: Stranded British F-35 fighter jet in Kerala becomes meme star
Also Read:
Pakistan flash floods: Tourists, 16 from one family among dozens swept away
State and federal response mobilised
Governor Greg Abbott signed a disaster declaration to free up emergency resources for the affected counties. President Donald Trump described the floods as “shocking” and expressed his condolences to the families impacted.
Large-scale rescue operation underway
A massive rescue mission is ongoing, with more than 500 personnel and 14 helicopters involved. Texas Military Major General Thomas Suelzer reported that at least 237 people have been rescued or evacuated, including 167 airlifted by helicopter. The National Guard and U.S. Coast Guard have joined in the operation.
Freeman Martin, Director of Texas Public Safety, said weather conditions initially hampered access, but rescue operations picked up throughout the day.
At a nearby reunification center, families anxiously waited for updates. Camp Mystic reassured parents via email that children not yet directly reported missing were safe and accounted for. In one emotional moment, a young girl in a Camp Mystic T-shirt was seen sobbing in her mother’s arms after being reunited.
Comfort resident Reagan Arnold observes rising water levels near his home along the Guadalupe River on July 4, 2025 in Comfort, Texas.
Comfort resident Reagan Arnold observes rising water levels near his home along the Guadalupe River on July 4, 2025 in Comfort, Texas.
AFP
‘Flash flood alley’ lives up to its name
The Hill Country region, known as “flash flood alley,” is vulnerable to rapid runoff due to its rocky soil and steep slopes. The National Weather Service had forecast 3–6 inches of rain, but some areas received nearly double that.
The Guadalupe River rose so quickly that its flood gauge was submerged within minutes. Officials say they received little warning ahead of the sudden flood.
History repeats: Echoes of a 1987 tragedy
The disaster brings back memories of a deadly 1987 flood in the same area, when 10 campers from a nearby Christian camp drowned after their bus failed to evacuate in time.
Former Camp Mystic counselor and teacher Chloe Crane said she broke down in tears after learning of the missing girls. “Mystic is such a special place,” she said, recalling how the camp—established in 1926—was a haven for young girls seeking confidence, friendships, and joy. “Now their happy place has turned into a horror story,” she added.
More flooding could follow
Officials warn that the danger isn’t over. “There could be another wave,” said Freeman Martin. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly admitted they had no indication the flood would strike overnight. “This is the most dangerous river valley in the United States,” he said, referencing the Guadalupe River.
Climate change likely a factor
Scientists say climate change is intensifying extreme weather events, including flash floods, droughts, and heatwaves. This storm follows a series of deadly weather incidents across the country, including flash floods in San Antonio that killed 10 people just weeks ago. In New Jersey, two people were killed Friday when a tree fell on their vehicle during a severe storm.
