51 confirmed dead in Texas flood; more than 27 girls still missing

KERRVILLE, TX – In the wake of devastating flash floods, southeast Texas communities are grappling with profound loss and destruction. The death toll has risen above 50, with 15 children among the victims. More than two dozen girls remain missing after a riverside summer camp was engulfed by floodwaters.

One father, desperate to find his daughter, shared his heart-wrenching search efforts at Camp Mystic. “We’ve been in Kerrville all night, searching as far downstream as possible,” he said, noting the limitations of their equipment. His hope remains that the missing might still be found alive.

As water levels recede, rescue operations have intensified. RV parks along the river, once filled with families celebrating the holiday, were caught off guard by a sudden surge. The lack of warning left many vulnerable to the deluge.

Local authorities emphasize the urgency of the situation. “We have extensive support from all government levels,” the sheriff stated. “Every minute is crucial, with teams in the air, on the water, and on the ground committed to saving lives. We will not relent.”

The National Weather Service warns that the slow-moving storm will persist, bringing more rain tonight. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick reported that the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet in just 45 minutes, despite prior warnings from weather services.

A reunification center has been established at a local elementary school, where anxious families gather, clinging to hope. A glimmer of relief came when two people discovered a girl from Camp Mystic among the flood debris. “She said her cabin flooded, and she escaped through a window,” they recounted.

On social media, President Trump assured that the White House is coordinating with Texas officials to manage the emergency response. The community remains in a state of vigilance as efforts continue to locate the missing and aid those affected.