Texas Floods Claim Over 80 Lives, Including Dozens of Children at Camps

More than 80 people, including at least 28 children, have died following catastrophic flash flooding in Central Texas. The Guadalupe River surged to nearly 30 feet, sweeping away summer camps, RV parks, and homes in Kerr County. Camp Mystic and Camp La Junta were among the hardest hit, with young campers and staff trapped as water rose overnight.

Survivors described waking to lightning, screaming, and floodwaters pouring into cabins. Campers at La Junta had to swim from their beds to higher ground, while at Camp Mystic, mattresses were used as makeshift rafts. “Oh my God, we’re floating,” one boy recalled.

The flooding came after the National Weather Service issued a warning Thursday afternoon, just hours before torrential rains began. By early Friday, the Guadalupe River had transformed from a gentle current into a deadly torrent, engulfing areas near Kerrville and Comfort, Texas.

At nearby vacation homes and Airbnbs, residents scrambled to escape. Ricky Gonzalez and a group of friends used floaties and air mattresses to prepare for the worst. In another case, a camper was rescued from a tree after being separated from her family. Her rescuer called it “a true miracle.”

First responders, including Texas Game Wardens, aviation crews, and over 500 personnel, worked through the night using helicopters, boats, drones, and rescue swimmers. Communication issues hampered efforts, but Starlink internet helped restore contact in the hardest-hit zones.

On Saturday, Governor Greg Abbott visited Camp Mystic, calling the destruction “unlike I’ve seen in any natural disaster.” The death toll reached 32 by that afternoon, with more still missing. Abbott pledged to continue search efforts “until we find every girl who was in those cabins.”

Among the victims were children whose stories have since gripped the nation. Janie Hunt, 9, was found dead after being swept away at Camp Mystic. Friends Ella Cahill, Joyce Badon, Reese Manchaca, and Aidan Heartfield remain missing.

Local volunteers joined the response, delivering food and aid to first responders and survivors. “I just need to make sandwiches,” said Daric Easton, a Kerrville restaurant owner. “If responders are fed, then they can save lives.”

As the water recedes, authorities continue to search for the missing and assist families in locating their loved ones. Robert Brake, whose parents were at the RV park, said visiting the funeral home each day has been painful, but “just one more ounce of hope” keeps him going.

With more rain forecast and the flood zone still dangerous, officials urge caution. The impact of this disaster will be felt across Texas for years to come.

Credit: CNN Newsource
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