Devastating Texas Floods Leave 24 Dead, Over 20 Campers Missing in Kerr County
Severe flooding in Central Texas has claimed at least 24 lives, with dozens more missing—many of them children attending a summer camp—according to local officials. Rescue operations are underway around the clock as federal and state agencies race to find survivors.
Governor Issues Disaster Declaration as Search Expands
Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration Friday evening for multiple counties hit hardest by the floods, including Kerr, Kendall, Llano, and others.
“We’ll put in everything we have in the entire state,” Abbott said during a press conference in Kerrville. “They will have access to every tool, strategy, and personnel that Texas can offer.”
The declaration enables affected regions to receive immediate state and federal support.
President Trump Responds: “We’ll Take Care of Them”
President Donald Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One en route to New Jersey, called the flooding “terrible” and pledged full federal assistance.
“It’s shocking. Some young people have died. We’re working closely with the governor. We’ll take care of them,” Trump said.
Camp Mystic: Over 20 People Still Missing
Authorities say that between 23 and 25 people—mostly children—from Camp Mystic in Kerr County remain unaccounted for. The camp sits near the Guadalupe River, which rose more than 20 feet in just 90 minutes during a historic rainfall event early Friday.
Texas Game Wardens and aviation units reached the camp midday Friday and began evacuating children. So far, Camp Mystic remains the only riverside camp with missing persons.
“We’re focused on those who can’t help themselves right now,” said Nim Kidd, Chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
Helicopter Rescues and Infrared Searches Continue Overnight
As of Friday night, 237 people have been rescued or evacuated, with 167 airlifted by helicopter, according to Major General Thomas M. Suelzer.
Three additional helicopters are en route to support overnight rescue missions. Equipped with infrared technology, these helicopters will help search crews locate individuals even in the dark.
“Search and rescue operations will continue nonstop, through the night and into tomorrow,” Gov. Abbott confirmed.
Heartbreaking Scenes at Reunification Center in Ingram
Ingram, Texas, has become the central hub for reuniting rescued campers with their families. At Ingram Elementary, school buses and military vehicles delivered dozens of shaken children into the arms of emotional parents.
“I just want to go home,” one child was overheard telling her parent.
Helicopters were seen landing at the reunification center, where yellow buses brought in more rescued children throughout the day.
Eyewitnesses Share Harrowing Stories of Escape
Residents across Kerr County have described terrifying flood experiences. In Hunt, Maria and Felipe Tapia said they woke up to water flooding their home and had to swim to safety.
“We got out right on time. I felt like I was swimming under a river,” Felipe said.
Flooding Surpasses 1987 Records
According to the National Weather Service, the Guadalupe River in Hunt reached its second-highest level on record—surpassing even the devastating 1987 flood.
Rainfall in the area exceeded 6.5 inches within just three hours—an event with only a 1% likelihood of occurring in any given year.
“This is a very dangerous and life-threatening flood event,” the NWS warned. “Move to higher ground!”
Counties Included in Disaster Declaration:
Kerr
Kendall
Llano
Bandera
Comal
Concho
Gillespie
Kimble
Mason
McCulloch
Menard
Reeves
San Saba
Tom Green
What’s Next?
Authorities say search operations will remain active throughout the weekend. Shelters have been set up across the region, and evacuees are being tracked and cared for.
Officials urge residents to remain off roads and avoid flooded areas as crews continue life-saving work.
How to Stay Safe During a Flood Emergency
How FEMA Disaster Assistance Works
Source: CNN – At least 24 dead in Central Texas flooding, 20 campers unaccounted for
