The devastating floods that swept through Central Texas over the July 4 holiday continue to leave a trail of tragedy and heartbreak, with Camp Mystic at the center of one of the storm’s deadliest chapters.
More than 170 people remain missing statewide, including several children and staff members from the girls’ summer camp in Kerr County, Texas.
Catastrophic Flooding Hits Camp Mystic
Located along the banks of the Guadalupe River in rural Kerr County near the town of Hunt, Camp Mystic was overwhelmed by flash floods during the deadly storm. Camp officials described the event as “catastrophic flooding,” and confirmed that 27 campers and counselors have died.
Survivors shared harrowing stories of waking up in the early hours to find water rushing through their cabin windows. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said crews were still searching for five missing campers and one counselor as of Friday, July 11.
"It's very tragic whenever you see human life, said Texas Game Warden Ben Baker at a press conference. But to see a child in that loss of life is extremely tragic."
In total, 96 people have been confirmed dead in Kerr County alone, the hardest-hit region in the state. The river swelled rapidly beyond its normal limits, turning a peaceful summer camp into a disaster zone within minutes.
https://usaherald.com/texas-floods-leave-dozens-dead-850-rescued-and-27-still-missing/
Federal Aid and Presidential Visit
President Donald Trump signed a federal disaster declaration at the request of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, which allowed FEMA to deploy resources to support ongoing search and rescue efforts.
" I've never seen anything like it-a little narrow river that becomes a monster, and that's what happened," Trump said on Friday July 11 during his visit to the Texas flood area.
"The First Lady and I are here to express the love and support and anguish of our entire nation in the aftermath of this really horrific and deadly flood."
Trump met with emergency responders, grieving families, and local officials to assess the situation firsthand.
Search Operations Continue
As of Sunday, July 13, 161 people are still missing in Kerr County, and at least 10 more across the state, according to the latest updates from Texas officials. Hundreds of search-and-rescue personnel, including state and federal agencies, local law enforcement, and volunteers, continue to comb through flood debris.
This is one of the most difficult rescue efforts we've ever been a part of," said a FEMA spokesperson.
The water's force was so strong, it moved cabins, cars, and entire trees miles downstream."
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy at Camp Mystic has deeply shaken the Texas Hill Country community and the families of campers nationwide.
As search crews continue their difficult work, the community holds onto hope for the missing and mourns for the lives already lost in this unprecedented tragedy.
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