๐ A Devastating Tragedy in Central Texas
At least 35 people have been confirmed dead, including 14 children, after raging floodwaters swept through Central Texas. Dozens remain missing as search-and-rescue teams scour the Guadalupe River, a region now declared a disaster zone.
Among the missing are over two dozen children who had been attending summer camps near the riverbanks, including Camp Mystic and other youth programs in the area.
๐ What We Know So Far
According to Texas emergency officials and local law enforcement:
- Flash flooding occurred after record-breaking rainfall overwhelmed the river basin.
- Cabins and campgrounds along the Guadalupe River were submerged within minutes.
- Victims include entire families and multiple children under the age of 15.
๐ Helicopters, rescue dogs, and divers are currently involved in recovery efforts.
โThis is one of the worst flood disasters weโve seen in decades,โ said Kerr County Sheriff Alan Ray.
๐๏ธ Summer Camps Turned Into Search Zones
Several camps located along the river were hit with little warning:
- Camp Mystic and Camp Stewart both suffered structural collapse and missing campers.
- Camp counselors reportedly tried to evacuate children, but the water rose too fast.
Parents from across Texas have flooded reunification centers, hoping for updates.
โWe havenโt heard from our daughter since Saturday night,โ one father said. โWe're praying someone finds her.โ
๐บ๏ธ A Widening Disaster Zone
The flooding has affected multiple counties:
- Kerr County
- Gillespie County
- Bandera County
Interstate 10 and key rural roads remain closed due to flood damage and debris.
๐ A Climate Wake-Up Call?
Scientists note the rainfall totals in the Hill Country exceeded historical averages by 300%.
Experts point to climate change and urban sprawl as contributing factors to the flood's deadly force.
โWarmer air holds more moisture โ and when it rains, it pours,โ said Dr. Ellie Tran, meteorologist at the National Weather Service.
๐ง Support & Resources
If you're looking for loved ones or offering help:
- Missing Persons Hotline: 1-800-HELP-TX
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
- Local Emergency Updates: ready.gov/texas-floods
- Donate to Families: Red Cross, Save the Children, and Texas Relief Fund
By โ๏ธ Tammy Castillo - MicuPost Team