Authorities in Central Texas have confirmed 51 fatalities following catastrophic flooding across the Hill Country region. Among the dead are at least 15 children.
At Camp Mystic in Kerr County, 27 children remain unaccounted for after the Guadalupe River rapidly overflowed overnight, rising more than 20 feet in less than two hours. The camp was inundated with little warning.
Since the disaster began, emergency crews have rescued over 850 people. That figure includes 302 individuals airlifted out in a multi-agency effort utilizing helicopters, boats, and specialized rescue vehicles.
State officials say the number of missing remains unclear due to an influx of holiday visitors along the riverbanks. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick stressed the ongoing nature of the operation, saying, “We never give up on looking for someone.”
Access to damaged areas has improved now that the waters have largely receded. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that river levels have returned to near-normal levels, thanks in part to drought-affected reservoirs absorbing excess runoff.
Weather forecasts suggest additional rain could impact the region in the coming days. Even light precipitation could lead to renewed flash flooding in areas that remain waterlogged.
Volunteers continue arriving from across the U.S., including members of the Cajun Navy. Despite difficult terrain and lingering safety risks, local officials vow to continue recovery efforts until all missing persons are located.
