Tragic Flash Flood in Texas Claims 27 Lives

The number of fatalities from the devastating flash floods in Texas has reached 27, according to local officials confirmed on Friday morning.

The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office reported that as of 8:55am on Friday, the confirmed dead include 18 adults and nine children, with six adults and one child still unaccounted for. The floods were triggered by a sudden storm that swelled the Guadalupe River, which overflowed, leading to the destruction of properties at a nearby summer camp for girls.

The sheriff’s office stated that rescue and recovery operations are ongoing, with teams from various first responder agencies actively working in the Guadalupe River area. In a Facebook post, they emphasized their commitment to the efforts.

Since the calamity struck, over 850 people have been reported injured, and eight have needed evacuation. The exact number of missing individuals is still uncertain, though initial reports indicated that between 23 to 25 campers have yet to be accounted for.

Camp Mystic, where the disaster unfolded, is located near Carville, Texas, and is surrounded by areas that are largely unincorporated, characterized by hunting communities along the river, which is considered one of the most perilous in the country. It’s known as an all-girls Christian summer camp.

A mother, whose nine-year-old daughter is now missing, described her child as “brave and sweet.” Several young girls, including Eroise Peck and Hadley Hannah, are also reported missing, leaving families anxious for their safe return.

Search and rescue missions are in full swing, with authorities working diligently to identify victims and find those still missing. So far, a total of 237 people have been rescued from affected regions, including 167 via helicopter, although the precise tally of missing persons remains unconfirmed.

On Friday evening, Texas Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference where he announced disaster declarations for several counties around San Antonio. He reassured the public that efforts would continue until every last person is accounted for.

Support is being coordinated from the federal government in the aftermath of the flooding. Former President Trump shared updates regarding the administration’s collaboration with state and local officials, promising continued assistance and prayers for the affected families.

This flood incident isn’t the first in the Guadalupe River area; there were similar tragic events in the past, including a 1987 incident where a church bus was caught in rising waters.