Central Texas is in mourning after historic flash floods swept through the region over the Fourth of July weekend, leaving at least 82 people dead and dozens more missing. The heart of the tragedy is Kerr County, where officials confirm 68 fatalities, including 28 children, and an urgent search continues for the missing—many of them young campers from the beloved Camp Mystic.

What began as a festive holiday weekend quickly turned into a nightmare as an intense, slow-moving storm dumped more than a foot of rain overnight. The Guadalupe River, a lifeline for local communities and summer camps, rose a staggering 26 feet in just 45 minutes, submerging homes, cabins, and entire neighborhoods.

A Community Shattered Overnight

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha described the situation as “catastrophic” during a somber press briefing Sunday morning. Over 400 first responders from at least 20 agencies have converged on the area, working tirelessly to search for survivors and reunite families.

Among the most heart-wrenching stories are those emerging from Camp Mystic, a storied summer camp along the river. As of Sunday, 11 of the camp’s 750 young female campers and one counselor remain unaccounted for. “We will continue our search efforts until everybody is found,” Sheriff Leitha vowed, his voice heavy with emotion.

Camp Mystic tried to offer clarity and hope to anxious families with a direct message: “If your daughter is not accounted for, you have been notified. If you have not been personally contacted, then your daughter is accounted for.” For many, this message brought a measure of relief—but for others, the agonizing wait continues.

Disaster Strikes in the Dead of Night

The rain began late Friday, catching many residents off guard as they slept. By the time warnings were issued, the river was already surging. Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring, visibly emotional, addressed the public: “This came at night, when people were asleep in bed. Please pray for our community.”

Survivors describe harrowing escapes. Katie, a camper along the Guadalupe, shared her story with ABC News:
“I was up all night watching weather alerts. Around 2 a.m., a river flood warning came in. We thought we were safe… But by 5:30 a.m., someone was banging on our RV door, shouting for us to evacuate immediately. The river was raging… you could hear trees and objects being crushed in the current. It was terrifying. We’re so thankful for the park staff who woke us up. We’re safe—but our hearts break for those still missing.”

Federal Response and Emergency Declarations

In response to the disaster, former President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that he had signed a “major disaster declaration” for Kerr County, mobilizing federal resources. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, currently on the ground in Texas, assured the public that FEMA is now fully engaged, working in coordination with state and local agencies.

“We are committed to ensuring the people of Texas get the support they need as search efforts continue and recovery begins,” Noem stated.

The Search for the Missing

Rescue operations have continued around the clock. Emergency crews have conducted dozens of dramatic rescues as floodwaters swallowed roads and swept away vehicles. Authorities urge anyone living near rivers and creeks—especially in Kerr County—to remain vigilant, avoid travel, and move to higher ground if needed.

Dramatic videos circulating online show campers fleeing submerged vehicles, rivers overtaking campsites, and cabins completely underwater. The sense of urgency is palpable, as families and friends wait for news of loved ones.

Impact Beyond Kerr County

While Kerr County has borne the brunt of the disaster, other areas have also suffered tragic losses:

Travis County: 4 deaths
Burnet County: 3 deaths
Kendall County: 2 deaths
Tom Green and Williamson Counties: 1 death each

Officials warn that these numbers could rise as search and recovery efforts continue and more remote areas become accessible.

A State in Mourning, a Community United

The scale of this disaster has left Texas reeling. Families have lost homes, livelihoods, and, most heartbreakingly, loved ones. Yet amid the devastation, stories of courage and compassion are emerging. First responders, volunteers, and neighbors are working side by side, offering shelter, supplies, and hope.

“This is one of the worst natural disasters we’ve seen in decades,” said one local official. “But in the middle of tragedy, we’re seeing courage, unity, and compassion.”

How to Help

Texas officials are asking for continued prayers, support, and vigilance. For those wishing to assist, local disaster relief organizations, as well as national agencies like the Red Cross and FEMA, are accepting donations and volunteer applications.

Public Safety Remains Top Priority

Authorities continue to urge residents to stay away from flooded areas and heed all evacuation orders. The National Weather Service warns that rivers and creeks remain dangerous, and conditions can change rapidly.

Looking Ahead

As Texas begins the long road to recovery, the pain of loss is tempered by the outpouring of support from across the country. Communities are rallying together, determined to rebuild and honor the memories of those lost.

For now, the search continues. The prayers and hopes of a nation are with the families still waiting for news—and with the brave men and women working nonstop to bring them home.