Texas Flash Floods Claim 82 Lives, Search Continues for Missing Campers
A devastating flash flood in Central Texas has resulted in at least 82 deaths and the rescue of over 850 people, following torrential rainfall that overwhelmed the Guadalupe River, authorities confirmed on July 6, 2025. The downpour, which brought up to 12 inches of rain, caused the river to surge by as much as 29 feet, wreaking havoc in communities northwest of San Antonio, particularly in Kerr County.
Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha reported that 68 of the fatalities occurred in the county, including 28 children. Among the missing are 27 girls from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp along the Guadalupe River, according to Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice. Rice noted that the total number of missing individuals remains unclear due to the chaotic nature of the disaster. “We are kind of looking at this in two ways called the known missing, which is the 27… We will not put a number on the other side because we just don’t know,” Rice told Reuters.
The flooding struck unexpectedly on July 4, with heavy rain falling before dawn, catching residents and campers unprepared. The National Weather Service had issued a flood watch on Thursday afternoon, but the intensity of the rainfall surpassed predictions, leading to rapid river surges. In Kerr County, eight of the deceased, including three children, have yet to be identified, according to Sheriff Leitha.
Rescue efforts have been extensive, with over 850 individuals evacuated in the past 36 hours, as reported by the Associated Press. Helicopters, boats, and drones are being utilized to locate missing persons and assist those stranded. Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster for several counties, stating, “We need God more than ever,” and emphasized ongoing search efforts. Social media platforms have been inundated with posts from families sharing photos of missing loved ones, seeking information.
Camp Mystic, a nearly century-old institution, was hosting approximately 750 girls when the flood hit. The camp reported a loss of power, water, and Wi-Fi, with a nearby highway washed out, hindering rescue operations. Other camps along the Guadalupe River have accounted for their campers, but Camp Mystic remains the focus of search efforts.
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Despite receding water levels, the threat of additional flooding persists, with more rain falling on Saturday, prompting continued flash flood warnings. The National Weather Service noted that the emergency in Kerr County had largely subsided by Friday, but surrounding areas remain at risk. President Donald Trump announced that the federal government is coordinating with state and local officials to support response efforts.
The tragedy has left communities in shock, with the full extent of the loss still emerging as search and rescue teams work tirelessly to find survivors and recover victims.